Respiratory Protection and Medical Surveillance
What to know
Respiratory protection follows OSHA 1910.134: written program, fit testing (initial and annual), medical evaluation, training, and respirator selection by assigned protection factor. For asbestos, half-mask and full-face negative-pressure air-purifying respirators with HEPA/P100 filters are used at lower exposures; powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) are common for comfort and protection; supplied-air or SCBA is required for the highest exposures or IDLH conditions. Fit testing must use the same make, model, and size as the respirator worn; user seal checks are performed each donning.
Medical surveillance under 1926.1101 applies when exposures reach the trigger (at or above the PEL for 30 or more days per year, or the excursion limit for 30 or more days per year), and includes a medical and work history, physical exam, and pulmonary function testing, with chest X-ray at the physician's discretion. Examinations are provided at no cost, at reasonable times, and results are confidential.
Traps
Questions confuse fit test frequency (annual) with seal check (every use), or claim a PAPR eliminates the need for fit testing (it does not for tight-fitting facepieces). Another trap: assuming medical surveillance is voluntary or that a respirator may be worn with facial hair that crosses the sealing surface.
Rule of thumb
Fit test once a year, seal check every time; any facial hair under the seal means no tight-fitting respirator.