Just The FACTS - Respiratory Protection
(click above to download the PDF of our catalog page)
 The LAW
OSHA 1910.134 governs the use of respirators for any airborne contaminants that engineering and administrative controls cannot keep within acceptable limits.
 The ESSENTIALS
We know that choosing a respirator can be overwhelming. There are a number of things you must know before you can select the respirator and cartridges or filters you need.
Identify Contaminants
The primary source of information on a chemical’s state and physical form is the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The MSDS may also make recommendations for what type of respirator may be needed to work safely with the product. Once the potential contaminants are identified, air sampling should be done to determine how much of the contaminant is likely to be present in a work shift.
Test Your Environment
Air sampling can be performed by a consulting firm or by OSHA Consultation. This evaluation should include a reasonable estimate of employee exposures to respiratory hazards and an identification of the contaminant’s chemical state and physical form.
Once the contaminant level is established, you should investigate effective hazard control methods, such as engineering and administrative controls, before resorting to a respirator. If you do need a respirator, our trained staff can help you make the appropriate choice.
If the employer cannot identify or reasonably estimate the employee exposure, the employer shall consider the atmosphere to be IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health).
Choose a Level of Protection
Select a filter that is designed to remove airborne particulates which may be harmful to the lungs in your
workplace. Particulates which may be blocked by a filter include dust, fumes (metal particles from welding), fibers and mists. Dry particulates can be removed with an N95, N99 or N100 filter. Dry or oily particulates can be removed with an R95, R99, P95, P99, or P100 filter.
You may even need a cartridge and a filter, depending on the nature of your work. Cartridges contain activated charcoal which can be chemically treated to remove various gases and vapors. We have several types of cartridges to select from. Certain chemicals will not be blocked by the cartridges and you may need to consider a supplied air system.
For assistance determining which mask, filter or cartridge you need, call 800-462-1947.
Size Your Respirator
A mask must fit properly and be fit tested to ensure complete protection. It should have tight seal around the nose and mouth to prevent leakage. We offer a complete line of Fit Test Kits to assist you with this process. Remember that all persons who wear respirators for a chemical hazard must conform with the OSHA requirements, which includes fit testing and medical evaluations.
 Q & A
Occupational Hazards - Respiratory Protection
OSHA - Respiratory Protection
OSHA - Respiratory Protection eTool
Workplace Safety Toolkit - Respiratory Protection
 The SAFETY SOURCE
Conney Safety Products is your single source for all the information you need regarding Respirators. Please call our Safety Tech Talk line at 800-462-1947 for answers to all your safety-related questions.
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