​​​​​Figure 1 - NIOSH Cartridge Color Code Chart

 

OSHA Requirements (29 CFR 1910.134)​

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• Employers must evaluate airborne hazards and determine when respirators are required.

• Employees must be medically cleared before using tight-fitting respirators.

• Fit testing (qualitative or quantitative) is required annually.

• Facial hair cannot interfere with the respirator seal.

• Workers must be trained on respirator limitations, proper use, and maintenance.

• Respirators must be NIOSH‑approved.
   

Common Types of Respirators​

 

• Filtering Facepiece Respirators (N95/N99/N100): Protect against airborne particles; no protection from gases/vapors.

• Half‑Face Air‑Purifying Respirators (APR): Use cartridges/filters for dust, fumes, or chemicals; APF = 10.

• Full‑Face APR: Includes face shield protection; better seal and chemical protection; APF = 50.

• Powered Air‑Purifying Respirators (PAPR): Battery‑powered airflow; high APF; ideal when high protection or comfort is needed.

• Supplied‑Air Respirators (SAR/SCBA): Required for IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) atmospheres.

 

Filter & Cartridge Selection

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• P100 / HEPA: Best for particulates and toxic dusts.

• OV Cartridges: Organic vapors (solvents, fuels, coatings).

• AG Cartridges: Acid gases.

• Multi‑Gas/Combo: Broad protection when hazards vary.

• End‑of‑service-life indicators (ESLI) should be used when available.

• Replace cartridges based on exposure time, odor breakthrough, or manufacturer schedule.

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Proper Fit, Use, and Maintenance

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• Perform a positive and negative pressure seal check every time the respirator is worn.

• Ensure respirator straps are snug and evenly tightened.

• Store respirators away from sunlight, heat, oils, and chemicals.

• Clean reusable respirators after each use with approved wipes or solutions.

• Replace filters or cartridges immediately if breathing resistance increases.

• Never modify or tamper with respirator components.

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​​Symptoms of Respiratory Exposure

 

• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing.

• Burning eyes, nose, or throat.

• Dizziness or headaches.

• Chemical odors inside respirator.

• Chest tightness or difficulty breathing.

 

Emergency Response

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• Move to fresh air immediately.

• Notify supervision and stop work.

• Seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist.

• For chemical exposures, rinse eyes/face and follow SDS first-aid recommendations.

• Report all respiratory incidents for investigation.

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​Discussion Questions

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• What airborne hazards are present today?

• Do we need N95, APR, PAPR, or supplied‑air protection?

• Are cartridges or filters appropriate for the job?

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RATTLIR Takeaway

 

Respiratory hazards can cause permanent damage or immediate danger. Selecting the right respirator, ensuring a proper fit, and inspecting equipment before each use ensures you strike before it bites.