Respirator Selection Guidelines for Hazardous Atmospheres

This guide outlines the selection criteria for respirators to be used in hazardous atmospheres, emphasizing the necessity of wearing appropriate respiratory protection. It specifies that the choice of respirator depends on the specific contaminants present and the assigned protection factor (APF) required. The document details various types of respirators, including air-purifying and atmosphere-supplying respirators, and explains their functions and limitations. It also provides information on the required NIOSH approval for respirators and the importance of medical evaluation, training, and fit testing prior to use. Additionally, the guide includes a table that lists different respirator types, their descriptions, and corresponding APFs, which serve as a reference for selecting the appropriate respirator based on the level of protection needed. The document serves as a resource for Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) professionals and respirator users to ensure compliance and safety in hazardous work environments.