Respiratory Protection Standard 1910.134

Regulations (Standards - 29 CFR)

Respiratory Protection. - 1910.134
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Part Number:
Part Title:
Subpart:
Subpart Title:
Standard Number:
Title:

• Appendix:

1910
Occupational Safety and Health Standards
I
Personal Protective Equipment
1910.134
Respiratory Protection.
A,

B-1 ,

B-2 ,

C,

D

This section applies to General Industry (part 1910), Shipyards (part 1915),
Marine Terminals (part 1917), Longshoring (part 1918), and Construction
(part 1926).
1910.134(a)

Permissible practice.

1910.134(a)(1)

In the control of those occupational diseases caused by breathing air contaminated with
harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the primary objective
shall be to prevent atmospheric contamination. This shall be accomplished as far as feasible
by accepted engineering control measures (for example, enclosure or confinement of the
operation, general and local ventilation, and substitution of less toxic materials). When
effective engineering controls are not feasible, or while they are being instituted, appropriate
respirators shall be used pursuant to this section.

1910.134(a)(2)

A respirator shall be provided to each employee when such equipment is necessary to protect
the health of such employee. The employer shall provide the respirators which are applicable
and suitable for the purpose intended. The employer shall be responsible for the
establishment and maintenance of a respiratory protection program, which shall include the
requirements outlined in paragraph (c) of this section. The program shall cover each
employee required by this section to use a respirator.
1910.134(b)

Definitions. The following definitions are important terms used in the respiratory protection
standard in this section.
Air-purifying respirator means a respirator with an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or
canister that removes specific air contaminants by passing ambient air through the airpurifying element.
Assigned protection factor (APF) means the workplace level of respiratory protection that
a respirator or class of respirators is expected to provide to employees when the employer
implements a continuing, effective respiratory protection program as specified by this
section.
Atmosphere-supplying respirator means a respirator that supplies the respirator user
with breathing air from a source independent of the ambient atmosphere, and includes
supplied-air respirators (SARs) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.
Canister or cartridge means a container with a filter, sorbent, or catalyst, or combination of

these items, which removes specific contaminants from the air passed through the container.
Demand respirator means an atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to
the facepiece only when a negative pressure is created inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Emergency situation means any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure,
rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment that may or does result in an
uncontrolled significant release of an airborne contaminant.
Employee exposure means exposure to a concentration of an airborne contaminant that
would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protection.
End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) means a system that warns the respirator user of the
approach of the end of adequate respiratory protection, for example, that the sorbent is
approaching saturation or is no longer effective.
Escape-only respirator means a respirator intended to be used only for emergency exit.
Filter or air purifying element means a component used in respirators to remove solid or
liquid aerosols from the inspired air.
Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means a negative pressure particulate respirator with a
filter as an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering
medium.
Fit factor means a quantitative estimate of the fit of a particular respirator to a specific
individual, and typically estimates the ratio of the concentration of a substance in ambient air
to its concentration inside the respirator when worn.
Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitatively or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a
respirator on an individual. (See also Qualitative fit test QLFT and Quantitative fit test QNFT.)
Helmet means a rigid respiratory inlet covering that also provides head protection against
impact and penetration.
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter means a filter that is at least 99.97%
efficient in removing monodisperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter. The equivalent
NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate filters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.
Hood means a respiratory inlet covering that completely covers the head and neck and may
also cover portions of the shoulders and torso.
Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) means an atmosphere that poses an
immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an
individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
Interior structural firefighting means the physical activity of fire suppression, rescue or
both, inside of buildings or enclosed structures which are involved in a fire situation beyond
the incipient stage. (See 29 CFR 1910.155)
Loose-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that is designed to form a partial
seal with the face.
Maximum use concentration (MUC) means the maximum atmospheric concentration of a
hazardous substance from which an employee can be expected to be protected when wearing
a respirator, and is determined by the assigned protection factor of the respirator or class of

respirators and the exposure limit of the hazardous substance. The MUC can be determined
mathematically by multiplying the assigned protection factor specified for a respirator by the
required OSHA permissible exposure limit, short-term exposure limit, or ceiling limit. When
no OSHA exposure limit is available for a hazardous substance, an employer must determine
an MUC on the basis of relevant available information and informed professional judgment.
Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting) means a respirator in which the air pressure
inside the facepiece is negative during inhalation with respect to the ambient air pressure
outside the respirator.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere means an atmosphere with an oxygen content below 19.5%
by volume.
Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) means an individual
whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows
him or her to independently provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some or
all of the health care services required by paragraph (e) of this section.
Positive pressure respirator means a respirator in which the pressure inside the
respiratory inlet covering exceeds the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) means an air-purifying respirator that uses a
blower to force the ambient air through air-purifying elements to the inlet covering.
Pressure demand respirator means a positive pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator
that admits breathing air to the facepiece when the positive pressure is reduced inside the
facepiece by inhalation.
Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of respirator fit
that relies on the individual's response to the test agent.
Quantitative fit test (QNFT) means an assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by
numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator.
Respiratory inlet covering means that portion of a respirator that forms the protective
barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifying device or breathing air
source, or both. It may be a facepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with
nose clamp.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) means an atmosphere-supplying respirator
for which the breathing air source is designed to be carried by the user.
Service life means the period of time that a respirator, filter or sorbent, or other respiratory
equipment provides adequate protection to the wearer.
Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respirator means an atmosphere-supplying
respirator for which the source of breathing air is not designed to be carried by the user.
This section means this respiratory protection standard.
Tight-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that forms a complete seal with
the face.
User seal check means an action conducted by the respirator user to determine if the
respirator is properly seated to the face.

1910.134(c)

Respiratory protection program. This paragraph requires the employer to develop and
implement a written respiratory protection program with required worksite-specific
procedures and elements for required respirator use. The program must be administered by a
suitably trained program administrator. In addition, certain program elements may be
required for voluntary use to prevent potential hazards associated with the use of the
respirator. The Small Entity Compliance Guide contains criteria for the selection of a program
administrator and a sample program that meets the requirements of this paragraph. Copies
of the Small Entity Compliance Guide will be available on or about April 8, 1998 from the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Office of Publications, Room N 3101, 200
Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20210 (202-219-4667).
1910.134(c)(1)

In any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect the health of the employee or
whenever respirators are required by the employer, the employer shall establish and
implement a written respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures. The
program shall be updated as necessary to reflect those changes in workplace conditions that
affect respirator use. The employer shall include in the program the following provisions of
this section, as applicable:
1910.134(c)(1)(i)

Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace;

1910.134(c)(1)(ii)

Medical evaluations of employees required to use respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(iii)

Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(iv)

Procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency
situations;

1910.134(c)(1)(v)

Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding,
and otherwise maintaining respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(vi)

Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and flow of breathing air for
atmosphere-supplying respirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(vii)

Training of employees in the respiratory hazards to which they are potentially exposed during
routine and emergency situations;
1910.134(c)(1)(viii)

Training of employees in the proper use of respirators, including putting on and removing
them, any limitations on their use, and their maintenance; and

1910.134(c)(1)(ix)

Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the program.
1910.134(c)(2)

Where respirator use is not required:
1910.134(c)(2)(i)

An employer may provide respirators at the request of employees or permit employees to use
their own respirators, if the employer determines that such respirator use will not in itself
create a hazard. If the employer determines that any voluntary respirator use is permissible,
the employer shall provide the respirator users with the information contained in Appendix D
to this section ("Information for Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under the
Standard"); and
1910.134(c)(2)(ii)

In addition, the employer must establish and implement those elements of a written
respiratory protection program necessary to ensure that any employee using a respirator
voluntarily is medically able to use that respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned, stored,
and maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to the user. Exception:
Employers are not required to include in a written respiratory protection program those
employees whose only use of respirators involves the voluntary use of filtering facepieces
(dust masks).
1910.134(c)(3)

The employer shall designate a program administrator who is qualified by appropriate

training or experience that is commensurate with the complexity of the program to
administer or oversee the respiratory protection program and conduct the required
evaluations of program effectiveness.
1910.134(c)(4)

The employer shall provide respirators, training, and medical evaluations at no cost to the
employee.
1910.134(d)

Selection of respirators. This paragraph requires the employer to evaluate respiratory
hazard(s) in the workplace, identify relevant workplace and user factors, and base respirator
selection on these factors. The paragraph also specifies appropriately protective respirators
for use in IDLH atmospheres, and limits the selection and use of air-purifying respirators.
1910.134(d)(1)

General requirements.

1910.134(d)(1)(i)

The employer shall select and provide an appropriate respirator based on the respiratory
hazard(s) to which the worker is exposed and workplace and user factors that affect
respirator performance and reliability.
1910.134(d)(1)(ii)

The employer shall select a NIOSH-certified respirator. The respirator shall be used in
compliance with the conditions of its certification.

1910.134(d)(1)(iii)

The employer shall identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace; this
evaluation shall include a reasonable estimate of employee exposures to respiratory
hazard(s) and an identification of the contaminant's chemical state and physical form. Where
the employer cannot identify or reasonably estimate the employee exposure, the employer
shall consider the atmosphere to be IDLH.
1910.134(d)(1)(iv)

The employer shall select respirators from a sufficient number of respirator models and sizes
so that the respirator is acceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.
1910.134(d)(2)

Respirators for IDLH atmospheres.

1910.134(d)(2)(i)

The employer shall provide the following respirators for employee use in IDLH atmospheres:
1910.134(d)(2)(i)(A)

A full facepiece pressure demand SCBA certified by NIOSH for a minimum service life of thirty
minutes, or
1910.134(d)(2)(i)(B)

A combination full facepiece pressure demand supplied-air respirator (SAR) with auxiliary
self-contained air supply.

1910.134(d)(2)(ii)

Respirators provided only for escape from IDLH atmospheres shall be NIOSH-certified for
escape from the atmosphere in which they will be used.

1910.134(d)(2)(iii)

All oxygen-deficient atmospheres shall be considered IDLH. Exception: If the employer
demonstrates that, under all foreseeable conditions, the oxygen concentration can be
maintained within the ranges specified in Table II of this section (i.e., for the altitudes set out
in the table), then any atmosphere-supplying respirator may be used.
1910.134(d)(3)

Respirators for atmospheres that are not IDLH.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)

The employer shall provide a respirator that is adequate to protect the health of the
employee and ensure compliance with all other OSHA statutory and regulatory requirements,
under routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(A)

Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) Employers must use the assigned protection factors
listed in Table 1 to select a respirator that meets or exceeds the required level of employee
protection. When using a combination respirator (e.g., airline respirators with an air-purifying
filter), employers must ensure that the assigned protection factor is appropriate to the mode
of operation in which the respirator is being used.

Table 1. -- Assigned Protection Factors5
Type of respirator , 2
Quarter Half mask
Full
mask
facepiece
1

Helmet/
hood

Loosefitting
facepiece
50 .............. ..............
1,000 425/1,000
25

3
1. Air-Purifying Respirator
5
10
2. Powered Air-Purifying Respirator
..............
50
(PAPR)
3. Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) or
Airline Respirator
• Demand mode
..............
10
50 .............. ..............
• Continuous flow mode
..............
50
1,000 425/1,000
25
• Pressure-demand or other
..............
50
1,000 .............. ..............
positive-pressure mode
4. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA)
• Demand mode
..............
10
50
50 ..............
• Pressure-demand or other
.............. ..............
10,000
10,000 ..............
positive-pressure mode (e.g.,
open/closed circuit)
Notes:
1
Employers may select respirators assigned for use in higher workplace concentrations of a
hazardous substance for use at lower concentrations of that substance, or when required
respirator use is independent of concentration.
2
The assigned protection factors in Table 1 are only effective when the employer implements
a continuing, effective respirator program as required by this section (29 CFR 1910.134),
including training, fit testing, maintenance, and use requirements.
3
This APF category includes filtering facepieces, and half masks with elastomeric facepieces.
4
The employer must have evidence provided by the respirator manufacturer that testing of
these respirators demonstrates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater to
receive an APF of 1,000. This level of performance can best be demonstrated by performing a
WPF or SWPF study or equivalent testing. Absent such testing, all other PAPRs and SARs with
helmets/hoods are to be treated as loose-fitting facepiece respirators, and receive an APF of
25.
5
These APFs do not apply to respirators used solely for escape. For escape respirators used in
association with specific substances covered by 29 CFR 1910 subpart Z, employers must refer
to the appropriate substance-specific standards in that subpart. Escape respirators for other
IDLH atmospheres are specified by 29 CFR 1910.134 (d)(2)(ii).

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)

Maximum Use Concentration (MUC)

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(1)

The employer must select a respirator for employee use that maintains the employee's
exposure to the hazardous substance, when measured outside the respirator, at or below the
MUC.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(2)

Employers must not apply MUCs to conditions that are immediately dangerous to life or
health (IDLH); instead, they must use respirators listed for IDLH conditions in paragraph
(d)(2) of this standard.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(3)

When the calculated MUC exceeds the IDLH level for a hazardous substance, or the
performance limits of the cartridge or canister, then employers must set the maximum MUC
at that lower limit.

1910.134(d)(3)(ii)

The respirator selected shall be appropriate for the chemical state and physical form of the
contaminant.

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)

For protection against gases and vapors, the employer shall provide:
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(A)

An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)

An air-purifying respirator, provided that:
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(1)

The respirator is equipped with an end-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) certified by NIOSH for
the contaminant; or
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(2)

If there is no ESLI appropriate for conditions in the employer's workplace, the employer
implements a change schedule for canisters and cartridges that is based on objective
information or data that will ensure that canisters and cartridges are changed before the end
of their service life. The employer shall describe in the respirator program the information
and data relied upon and the basis for the canister and cartridge change schedule and the
basis for reliance on the data.
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)

For protection against particulates, the employer shall provide:
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(A)

An atmosphere-supplying respirator; or
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(B)

An air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified by NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11 as
a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, or an air-purifying respirator equipped with a
filter certified for particulates by NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84; or
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(C)

For contaminants consisting primarily of particles with mass median aerodynamic diameters
(MMAD) of at least 2 micrometers, an air-purifying respirator equipped with any filter
certified for particulates by NIOSH.
TABLE I. -- ASSIGNED PROTECTION FACTORS
[RESERVED]

TABLE II

Altitude (ft.)

Less than 3,001
3,001-4,000
4,001-5,000
5,001-6,000
6,001-7,000
7,001-8,0001

Oxygen
deficient
Atmospheres
(% 02) for
which the
employer
atmospheremay rely on
supplying
respirators
16.0-19.5
16.4-19.5
17.1-19.5
17.8-19.5
18.5-19.5
19.3-19.5.

1

Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygenenriched breathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.

1910.134(e)

Medical evaluation. Using a respirator may place a physiological burden on employees that
varies with the type of respirator worn, the job and workplace conditions in which the

respirator is used, and the medical status of the employee. Accordingly, this paragraph
specifies the minimum requirements for medical evaluation that employers must implement
to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator.
1910.134(e)(1)

General. The employer shall provide a medical evaluation to determine the employee's
ability to use a respirator, before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator
in the workplace. The employer may discontinue an employee's medical evaluations when the
employee is no longer required to use a respirator.
1910.134(e)(2)

Medical evaluation procedures.
1910.134(e)(2)(i)

The employer shall identify a physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) to
perform medical evaluations using a medical questionnaire or an initial medical examination
that obtains the same information as the medical questionnaire.
1910.134(e)(2)(ii)

The medical evaluation shall obtain the information requested by the questionnaire in
Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix C of this section.

1910.134(e)(3)

Follow-up medical examination.
1910.134(e)(3)(i)

The employer shall ensure that a follow-up medical examination is provided for an employee
who gives a positive response to any question among questions 1 through 8 in Section 2,
Part A of Appendix C or whose initial medical examination demonstrates the need for a
follow-up medical examination.
1910.134(e)(3)(ii)

The follow-up medical examination shall include any medical tests, consultations, or
diagnostic procedures that the PLHCP deems necessary to make a final determination.

1910.134(e)(4)

Administration of the medical questionnaire and examinations.
1910.134(e)(4)(i)

The medical questionnaire and examinations shall be administered confidentially during the
employee's normal working hours or at a time and place convenient to the employee. The
medical questionnaire shall be administered in a manner that ensures that the employee
understands its content.
1910.134(e)(4)(ii)

The employer shall provide the employee with an opportunity to discuss the questionnaire
and examination results with the PLHCP.

1910.134(e)(5)

Supplemental information for the PLHCP.
1910.134(e)(5)(i)

The following information must be provided to the PLHCP before the PLHCP makes a
recommendation concerning an employee's ability to use a respirator:
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(A)

(A) The type and weight of the respirator to be used by the employee;
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(B)

The duration and frequency of respirator use (including use for rescue and escape);

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(C)

The expected physical work effort;
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(D)

Additional protective clothing and equipment to be worn; and

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(E)

Temperature and humidity extremes that may be encountered.

1910.134(e)(5)(ii)

Any supplemental information provided previously to the PLHCP regarding an employee need
not be provided for a subsequent medical evaluation if the information and the PLHCP remain
the same.

1910.134(e)(5)(iii)

The employer shall provide the PLHCP with a copy of the written respiratory protection
program and a copy of this section.
Note to Paragraph (e)(5)(iii): When the employer replaces a PLHCP, the employer must

ensure that the new PLHCP obtains this information, either by providing the documents
directly to the PLHCP or having the documents transferred from the former PLHCP to the new
PLHCP. However, OSHA does not expect employers to have employees medically reevaluated
solely because a new PLHCP has been selected.
1910.134(e)(6)

Medical determination. In determining the employee's ability to use a respirator, the
employer shall:
1910.134(e)(6)(i)

Obtain a written recommendation regarding the employee's ability to use the respirator from
the PLHCP. The recommendation shall provide only the following information:
1910.134(e)(6)(i)(A)

Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical condition of the employee, or relating
to the workplace conditions in which the respirator will be used, including whether or not the
employee is medically able to use the respirator;
1910.134(e)(6)(i)(B)

The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations; and

1910.134(e)(6)(i)(C)

A statement that the PLHCP has provided the employee with a copy of the PLHCP's written
recommendation.
1910.134(e)(6)(ii)

If the respirator is a negative pressure respirator and the PLHCP finds a medical condition
that may place the employee's health at increased risk if the respirator is used, the employer
shall provide a PAPR if the PLHCP's medical evaluation finds that the employee can use such
a respirator; if a subsequent medical evaluation finds that the employee is medically able to
use a negative pressure respirator, then the employer is no longer required to provide a
PAPR.

1910.134(e)(7)

Additional medical evaluations. At a minimum, the employer shall provide additional
medical evaluations that comply with the requirements of this section if:
1910.134(e)(7)(i)

An employee reports medical signs or symptoms that are related to ability to use a
respirator;
1910.134(e)(7)(ii)

A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program administrator informs the employer that an
employee needs to be reevaluated;

1910.134(e)(7)(iii)

Information from the respiratory protection program, including observations made during fit
testing and program evaluation, indicates a need for employee reevaluation; or
1910.134(e)(7)(iv)

A change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physical work effort, protective clothing,
temperature) that may result in a substantial increase in the physiological burden placed on
an employee.
1910.134(f)

Fit testing. This paragraph requires that, before an employee may be required to use any
respirator with a negative or positive pressure tight-fitting facepiece, the employee must be
fit tested with the same make, model, style, and size of respirator that will be used. This
paragraph specifies the kinds of fit tests allowed, the procedures for conducting them, and
how the results of the fit tests must be used.
1910.134(f)(1)

The employer shall ensure that employees using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator pass an
appropriate qualitative fit test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test (QNFT) as stated in this
paragraph.
1910.134(f)(2)

The employer shall ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator is fit
tested prior to initial use of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece (size,
style, model or make) is used, and at least annually thereafter.
1910.134(f)(3)

The employer shall conduct an additional fit test whenever the employee reports, or the
employer, PLHCP, supervisor, or program administrator makes visual observations of,
changes in the employee's physical condition that could affect respirator fit. Such conditions

include, but are not limited to, facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an
obvious change in body weight.
1910.134(f)(4)

If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, the employee subsequently notifies the employer, program
administrator, supervisor, or PLHCP that the fit of the respirator is unacceptable, the
employee shall be given a reasonable opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece
and to be retested.
1910.134(f)(5)

The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-accepted QLFT or QNFT protocol. The OSHAaccepted QLFT and QNFT protocols and procedures are contained in Appendix A of this
section.
1910.134(f)(6)

QLFT may only be used to fit test negative pressure air-purifying respirators that must
achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.
1910.134(f)(7)

If the fit factor, as determined through an OSHA-accepted QNFT protocol, is equal to or
greater than 100 for tight-fitting half facepieces, or equal to or greater than 500 for tightfitting full facepieces, the QNFT has been passed with that respirator.
1910.134(f)(8)

Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators and tight-fitting powered airpurifying respirators shall be accomplished by performing quantitative or qualitative fit
testing in the negative pressure mode, regardless of the mode of operation (negative or
positive pressure) that is used for respiratory protection.
1910.134(f)(8)(i)

Qualitative fit testing of these respirators shall be accomplished by temporarily converting the
respirator user's actual facepiece into a negative pressure respirator with appropriate filters,
or by using an identical negative pressure air-purifying respirator facepiece with the same
sealing surfaces as a surrogate for the atmosphere-supplying or powered air-purifying
respirator facepiece.
1910.134(f)(8)(ii)

Quantitative fit testing of these respirators shall be accomplished by modifying the facepiece
to allow sampling inside the facepiece in the breathing zone of the user, midway between the
nose and mouth. This requirement shall be accomplished by installing a permanent sampling
probe onto a surrogate facepiece, or by using a sampling adapter designed to temporarily
provide a means of sampling air from inside the facepiece.

1910.134(f)(8)(iii)

Any modifications to the respirator facepiece for fit testing shall be completely removed, and
the facepiece restored to NIOSH-approved configuration, before that facepiece can be used in
the workplace.
1910.134(g)

Use of respirators. This paragraph requires employers to establish and implement
procedures for the proper use of respirators. These requirements include prohibiting
conditions that may result in facepiece seal leakage, preventing employees from removing
respirators in hazardous environments, taking actions to ensure continued effective respirator
operation throughout the work shift, and establishing procedures for the use of respirators in
IDLH atmospheres or in interior structural firefighting situations.
1910.134(g)(1)

Facepiece seal protection.

1910.134(g)(1)(i)

The employer shall not permit respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by
employees who have:
1910.134(g)(1)(i)(A)

Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face or that
interferes with valve function; or
1910.134(g)(1)(i)(B)

Any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.

1910.134(g)(1)(ii)

If an employee wears corrective glasses or goggles or other personal protective equipment,
the employer shall ensure that such equipment is worn in a manner that does not interfere

with the seal of the facepiece to the face of the user.
1910.134(g)(1)(iii)

For all tight-fitting respirators, the employer shall ensure that employees perform a user seal
check each time they put on the respirator using the procedures in Appendix B-1 or
procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer that the employer demonstrates
are as effective as those in Appendix B-1 of this section.
1910.134(g)(2)

Continuing respirator effectiveness.

1910.134(g)(2)(i)

Appropriate surveillance shall be maintained of work area conditions and degree of employee
exposure or stress. When there is a change in work area conditions or degree of employee
exposure or stress that may affect respirator effectiveness, the employer shall reevaluate the
continued effectiveness of the respirator.
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)

The employer shall ensure that employees leave the respirator use area:

1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(A)

To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as necessary to prevent eye or skin irritation
associated with respirator use; or
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(B)

If they detect vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance, or leakage of the
facepiece; or
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(C)

To replace the respirator or the filter, cartridge, or canister elements.
1910.134(g)(2)(iii)

If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance, or
leakage of the facepiece, the employer must replace or repair the respirator before allowing
the employee to return to the work area.
1910.134(g)(3)

Procedures for IDLH atmospheres. For all IDLH atmospheres, the employer shall ensure
that:

1910.134(g)(3)(i)

One employee or, when needed, more than one employee is located outside the IDLH
atmosphere;
1910.134(g)(3)(ii)

Visual, voice, or signal line communication is maintained between the employee(s) in the
IDLH atmosphere and the employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere;

1910.134(g)(3)(iii)

The employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere are trained and equipped to provide
effective emergency rescue;
1910.134(g)(3)(iv)

The employer or designee is notified before the employee(s) located outside the IDLH
atmosphere enter the IDLH atmosphere to provide emergency rescue;
1910.134(g)(3)(v)

The employer or designee authorized to do so by the employer, once notified, provides
necessary assistance appropriate to the situation;

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)

Employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmospheres are equipped with:
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(A)

Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs, or a pressure demand or other positive
pressure supplied-air respirator with auxiliary SCBA; and either
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(B)

Appropriate retrieval equipment for removing the employee(s) who enter(s) these hazardous
atmospheres where retrieval equipment would contribute to the rescue of the employee(s)
and would not increase the overall risk resulting from entry; or

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(C)

Equivalent means for rescue where retrieval equipment is not required under paragraph
(g)(3)(vi)(B).

1910.134(g)(4)

Procedures for interior structural firefighting. In addition to the requirements set forth
under paragraph (g)(3), in interior structural fires, the employer shall ensure that:

1910.134(g)(4)(i)

At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain in visual or voice contact with
one another at all times;
1910.134(g)(4)(ii)

At least two employees are located outside the IDLH atmosphere; and

1910.134(g)(4)(iii)

All employees engaged in interior structural firefighting use SCBAs.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): One of the two individuals located outside the IDLH atmosphere
may be assigned to an additional role, such as incident commander in charge of the
emergency or safety officer, so long as this individual is able to perform assistance or rescue
activities without jeopardizing the safety or health of any firefighter working at the incident.
Note 2 to paragraph (g): Nothing in this section is meant to preclude firefighters from
performing emergency rescue activities before an entire team has assembled.
1910.134(h)

Maintenance and care of respirators. This paragraph requires the employer to provide for
the cleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection, and repair of respirators used by
employees.
1910.134(h)(1)

Cleaning and disinfecting. The employer shall provide each respirator user with a
respirator that is clean, sanitary, and in good working order. The employer shall ensure that
respirators are cleaned and disinfected using the procedures in Appendix B-2 of this section,
or procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer, provided that such procedures
are of equivalent effectiveness. The respirators shall be cleaned and disinfected at the
following intervals:
1910.134(h)(1)(i)

Respirators issued for the exclusive use of an employee shall be cleaned and disinfected as
often as necessary to be maintained in a sanitary condition;

1910.134(h)(1)(ii)

Respirators issued to more than one employee shall be cleaned and disinfected before being
worn by different individuals;
1910.134(h)(1)(iii)

Respirators maintained for emergency use shall be cleaned and disinfected after each use;
and

1910.134(h)(1)(iv)

Respirators used in fit testing and training shall be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

1910.134(h)(2)

Storage. The employer shall ensure that respirators are stored as follows:
1910.134(h)(2)(i)

All respirators shall be stored to protect them from damage, contamination, dust, sunlight,
extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals, and they shall be
packed or stored to prevent deformation of the facepiece and exhalation valve.

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)

In addition to the requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this section, emergency respirators
shall be:
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(A)

Kept accessible to the work area;

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(B)

Stored in compartments or in covers that are clearly marked as containing emergency
respirators; and
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(C)

Stored in accordance with any applicable manufacturer instructions.

1910.134(h)(3)

Inspection.

1910.134(h)(3)(i)

The employer shall ensure that respirators are inspected as follows:

1910.134(h)(3)(i)(A)

All respirators used in routine situations shall be inspected before each use and during
cleaning;

1910.134(h)(3)(i)(B)

All respirators maintained for use in emergency situations shall be inspected at least monthly
and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, and shall be checked for proper
function before and after each use; and
1910.134(h)(3)(i)(C)

Emergency escape-only respirators shall be inspected before being carried into the workplace
for use.
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)

The employer shall ensure that respirator inspections include the following:
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(A)

A check of respirator function, tightness of connections, and the condition of the various parts
including, but not limited to, the facepiece, head straps, valves, connecting tube, and
cartridges, canisters or filters; and
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(B)

A check of elastomeric parts for pliability and signs of deterioration.
1910.134(h)(3)(iii)

In addition to the requirements of paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and (ii) of this section, self-contained
breathing apparatus shall be inspected monthly. Air and oxygen cylinders shall be maintained
in a fully charged state and shall be recharged when the pressure falls to 90% of the
manufacturer's recommended pressure level. The employer shall determine that the
regulator and warning devices function properly.
1910.134(h)(3)(iv)

For respirators maintained for emergency use, the employer shall:

1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(A)

Certify the respirator by documenting the date the inspection was performed, the name (or
signature) of the person who made the inspection, the findings, required remedial action, and
a serial number or other means of identifying the inspected respirator; and
1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(B)

Provide this information on a tag or label that is attached to the storage compartment for the
respirator, is kept with the respirator, or is included in inspection reports stored as paper or
electronic files. This information shall be maintained until replaced following a subsequent
certification.
1910.134(h)(4)

Repairs. The employer shall ensure that respirators that fail an inspection or are otherwise
found to be defective are removed from service, and are discarded or repaired or adjusted in
accordance with the following procedures:
1910.134(h)(4)(i)

Repairs or adjustments to respirators are to be made only by persons appropriately trained to
perform such operations and shall use only the respirator manufacturer's NIOSH-approved
parts designed for the respirator;
1910.134(h)(4)(ii)

Repairs shall be made according to the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications
for the type and extent of repairs to be performed; and
1910.134(h)(4)(iii)

Reducing and admission valves, regulators, and alarms shall be adjusted or repaired only by
the manufacturer or a technician trained by the manufacturer.

1910.134(i)

Breathing air quality and use. This paragraph requires the employer to provide employees
using atmosphere-supplying respirators (supplied-air and SCBA) with breathing gases of high
purity.
1910.134(i)(1)

The employer shall ensure that compressed air, compressed oxygen, liquid air, and liquid
oxygen used for respiration accords with the following specifications:
1910.134(i)(1)(i)

Compressed and liquid oxygen shall meet the United States Pharmacopoeia requirements for
medical or breathing oxygen; and

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)

Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air
described in ANSI/Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989,
to include:

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(A)

Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%;
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(B)

Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic meter of air or less;

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(C)

Carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 ppm or less;
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(D)

Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 ppm or less; and

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(E)

Lack of noticeable odor.

1910.134(i)(2)

The employer shall ensure that compressed oxygen is not used in atmosphere-supplying
respirators that have previously used compressed air.
1910.134(i)(3)

The employer shall ensure that oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5% are used only in
equipment designed for oxygen service or distribution.
1910.134(i)(4)

The employer shall ensure that cylinders used to supply breathing air to respirators meet the
following requirements:
1910.134(i)(4)(i)

Cylinders are tested and maintained as prescribed in the Shipping Container Specification
Regulations of the Department of Transportation (49 CFR part 173 and part 178);

1910.134(i)(4)(ii)

Cylinders of purchased breathing air have a certificate of analysis from the supplier that the
breathing air meets the requirements for Grade D breathing air; and

1910.134(i)(4)(iii)

The moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a dew point of -50 deg.F (-45.6 deg.C)
at 1 atmosphere pressure.
1910.134(i)(5)

The employer shall ensure that compressors used to supply breathing air to respirators are
constructed and situated so as to:
1910.134(i)(5)(i)

Prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supply system;

1910.134(i)(5)(ii)

Minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure is 10 degrees F
(5.56 deg.C) below the ambient temperature;

1910.134(i)(5)(iii)

Have suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters to further ensure breathing air
quality. Sorbent beds and filters shall be maintained and replaced or refurbished periodically
following the manufacturer's instructions.
1910.134(i)(5)(iv)

Have a tag containing the most recent change date and the signature of the person
authorized by the employer to perform the change. The tag shall be maintained at the
compressor.
1910.134(i)(6)

For compressors that are not oil-lubricated, the employer shall ensure that carbon monoxide
levels in the breathing air do not exceed 10 ppm.
1910.134(i)(7)

For oil-lubricated compressors, the employer shall use a high-temperature or carbon
monoxide alarm, or both, to monitor carbon monoxide levels. If only high-temperature
alarms are used, the air supply shall be monitored at intervals sufficient to prevent carbon
monoxide in the breathing air from exceeding 10 ppm.
1910.134(i)(8)

The employer shall ensure that breathing air couplings are incompatible with outlets for
nonrespirable worksite air or other gas systems. No asphyxiating substance shall be
introduced into breathing air lines.
1910.134(i)(9)

The employer shall use breathing gas containers marked in accordance with the NIOSH
respirator certification standard, 42 CFR part 84.
1910.134(j)

Identification of filters, cartridges, and canisters. The employer shall ensure that all
filters, cartridges and canisters used in the workplace are labeled and color coded with the

NIOSH approval label and that the label is not removed and remains legible.
1910.134(k)

Training and information. This paragraph requires the employer to provide effective
training to employees who are required to use respirators. The training must be
comprehensive, understandable, and recur annually, and more often if necessary. This
paragraph also requires the employer to provide the basic information on respirators in
Appendix D of this section to employees who wear respirators when not required by this
section or by the employer to do so.

1910.134(k)(1)

The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate knowledge of at least the
following:

1910.134(k)(1)(i)

Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance can
compromise the protective effect of the respirator;
1910.134(k)(1)(ii)

What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are;

1910.134(k)(1)(iii)

How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, including situations in which
the respirator malfunctions;
1910.134(k)(1)(iv)

How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals of the respirator;
1910.134(k)(1)(v)

What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator;

1910.134(k)(1)(vi)

How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of
respirators; and
1910.134(k)(1)(vii)

The general requirements of this section.

1910.134(k)(2)

The training shall be conducted in a manner that is understandable to the employee.

1910.134(k)(3)

The employer shall provide the training prior to requiring the employee to use a respirator in
the workplace.

1910.134(k)(4)

An employer who is able to demonstrate that a new employee has received training within
the last 12 months that addresses the elements specified in paragraph (k)(1)(i) through (vii)
is not required to repeat such training provided that, as required by paragraph (k)(1), the
employee can demonstrate knowledge of those element(s). Previous training not repeated
initially by the employer must be provided no later than 12 months from the date of the
previous training.

1910.134(k)(5)

Retraining shall be administered annually, and when the following situations occur:

1910.134(k)(5)(i)

Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render previous training obsolete;
1910.134(k)(5)(ii)

Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the respirator indicate that the employee
has not retained the requisite understanding or skill; or
1910.134(k)(5)(iii)

Any other situation arises in which retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator
use.
1910.134(k)(6)

The basic advisory information on respirators, as presented in Appendix D of this section,
shall be provided by the employer in any written or oral format, to employees who wear
respirators when such use is not required by this section or by the employer.

1910.134(l)

Program evaluation. This section requires the employer to conduct evaluations of the
workplace to ensure that the written respiratory protection program is being properly
implemented, and to consult employees to ensure that they are using the respirators
properly.
1910.134(l)(1)

The employer shall conduct evaluations of the workplace as necessary to ensure that the

provisions of the current written program are being effectively implemented and that it
continues to be effective.
1910.134(l)(2)

The employer shall regularly consult employees required to use respirators to assess the
employees' views on program effectiveness and to identify any problems. Any problems that
are identified during this assessment shall be corrected. Factors to be assessed include, but
are not limited to:
1910.134(l)(2)(i)

Respirator fit (including the ability to use the respirator without interfering with effective
workplace performance);

1910.134(l)(2)(ii)

Appropriate respirator selection for the hazards to which the employee is exposed;

1910.134(l)(2)(iii)

Proper respirator use under the workplace conditions the employee encounters; and
1910.134(l)(2)(iv)

Proper respirator maintenance.
1910.134(m)

Recordkeeping. This section requires the employer to establish and retain written
information regarding medical evaluations, fit testing, and the respirator program. This
information will facilitate employee involvement in the respirator program, assist the
employer in auditing the adequacy of the program, and provide a record for compliance
determinations by OSHA.

1910.134(m)(1)

Medical evaluation. Records of medical evaluations required by this section must be
retained and made available in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1020.

1910.134(m)(2)

Fit testing.

1910.134(m)(2)(i)

The employer shall establish a record of the qualitative and quantitative fit tests administered
to an employee including:
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(A)

The name or identification of the employee tested;

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(B)

Type of fit test performed;
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(C)

Specific make, model, style, and size of respirator tested;

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(D)

Date of test; and

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(E)

The pass/fail results for QLFTs or the fit factor and strip chart recording or other recording of
the test results for QNFTs.
1910.134(m)(2)(ii)

Fit test records shall be retained for respirator users until the next fit test is administered.
1910.134(m)(3)

A written copy of the current respirator program shall be retained by the employer.

1910.134(m)(4)

Written materials required to be retained under this paragraph shall be made available upon
request to affected employees and to the Assistant Secretary or designee for examination
and copying.

1910.134(n)

Effective date. Paragraphs (d)(3)(i)(A) and (d)(3)(i)(B) of this section become effective
November 22, 2006.
1910.134(o)

Appendices.
1910.134(o)(1)

Compliance with Appendix A, Appendix B-1, Appendix B-2, and Appendix C of this section is
mandatory.
1910.134(o)(2)

Appendix D of this section is non-mandatory and is not intended to create any additional
obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract from any existing obligations.

[63 FR 1152, Jan. 8, 1998; 63 FR 20098, April 23, 1998; 71 FR 16672, April 3, 2006; 71 FR
50187, August 24, 2006; 73 FR 75584, Dec. 12, 2008]