8 A Few Words about Respiratory Protection

When ventilation can not successfully eliminate or reduce contaminant levels to below acceptable limits, respirators may be required. Respirators are also required in oxygen deficient atmospheres.

A supplied air respirator is required for oxygen deficiency, or toxic chemical levels that are immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH). There are two types of supplied air respirators:

• Self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and
• Airline respirators

An air-purifying respirator (respirators that filter contaminated air) cannot be used in these very dangerous atmospheres.

Proper training on respirator use is beyond the scope of this course. Before you use respirators, especially in confined spaces, you require thorough instruction on their selection, use, limitations, care, maintenance, and emergency procedures. Your employer must ensure that a Respiratory Protection Program is implemented to address these and other important details.