Respiratory protection
Amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, related to respiratory face seals, are now in effect
Learn more:
Some work puts harmful dusts, fumes, mists, gases, or vapours into the air. Some work areas don’t have enough oxygen. A respirator is a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects the wearer by cleaning the air before they breathe it in, or by supplying clean air.
A respirator doesn’t remove the hazard. It only protects the wearer if it is:
- The right type for the hazard and the level of exposure
- Properly fitted
- Worn and cared for correctly
Like all PPE, respirators are the last line of defence. Whenever possible, employers should first remove the hazard and reduce the hazard at its source.
For more information on selecting controls, refer to Controlling risks.
When a respirator is required
As an employer, you must provide respirators when workers could breathe in a contaminant above its exposure limit. Find out when respirators are required and when a specific type is needed.
Types of respirators
Learn how respirators work, how tight-fitting and loose-fitting respirators differ, and what respirators can and can’t protect against.
Choose a respirator
As an employer, you must choose respirators that protect workers from the hazard and meet each worker’s needs. Understand the decisions you need to make and steps you need to follow, including how to consult workers.
Get workers medically assessed to wear a respirator
As an employer, you must have a worker examined by a doctor if there’s any doubt they can wear a respirator for medical reasons. Find out what the doctor needs from you.
Fit testing for respirators
As an employer, you must make sure workers are fit tested before they use a tight-fitting respirator, and at least once a year. Learn when fit testing is required, who can do it, and what you need to arrange and document.
Wear & care for a respirator
As a worker, you must use and maintain your respirator the way you were trained and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prevent interference with a respirator seal
As a worker, make sure nothing can interfere with the seal of your tight-fitting respirator. Learn what counts as interference and what to do if something can’t be removed for religious or medical reasons.
Set up a respirator program
As an employer, you must have a respirator program if your workers need respirators. Learn about the essential program elements, including training and written procedures.