Regulatory standards and requirements

  1. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):
    • In the United States, OSHA sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthful working conditions. OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134) outlines requirements for employers to establish and maintain a respiratory protection program when workers are exposed to respiratory hazards.
    • OSHA requires employers to conduct workplace hazard assessments, provide appropriate respiratory protection equipment, ensure proper fit testing and training for respirator users, and establish procedures for respirator use, maintenance, and cleaning.
  2. European Union (EU):
    • The EU has directives and regulations governing occupational health and safety, including respiratory protection. The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulation (EU) 2016/425 sets requirements for the design, manufacture, and marketing of PPE, including respiratory protective equipment (RPE).
    • In addition to the PPE Regulation, specific directives may apply to certain industries or hazards. For example, Directive 2009/104/EC concerns the use of PPE in the construction sector.
  3. Health and Safety Executive (HSE):
    • In the United Kingdom, the HSE is responsible for regulating and enforcing health and safety standards. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations require employers to assess and control exposure to hazardous substances, including respiratory hazards.
    • The HSE provides guidance on selecting and using respiratory protective equipment, conducting risk assessments, and implementing control measures.
  4. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):
    • NIOSH, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, conducts research and provides recommendations for preventing work-related injuries and illnesses.
    • NIOSH certifies respirators to ensure they meet minimum performance requirements. Respirators certified by NIOSH are listed on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List (CEL).
  5. International Organization for Standardization (ISO):
    • ISO develops international standards for various aspects of occupational health and safety, including respiratory protective devices. ISO standards such as ISO 16975 and ISO 17420 provide guidelines for the selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.

It’s essential for employers to stay informed about relevant regulations and standards applicable to their industry and location. Compliance with these requirements helps protect workers from respiratory hazards and ensures a safe working environment. Employers should regularly review and update their respiratory protection programs to reflect changes in regulations, workplace conditions, and best practices.