The Cornell University Respiratory Protection Program establishes a program for the use of respiratory protection by employees who could be exposed to hazardous substances or atmospheres. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) under its Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134) mandates establishing policy and procedures for employees who must wear respiratory protection. Whenever possible, respiratory exposures will be controlled by implementing engineering, work practice, and administrative controls. Respiratory protection will be provided to employees and utilized when it has been determined that engineering, work practice, and administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection. Employees who are required to use respiratory protection to perform their work activities must participate in the University Respiratory Protection Program.
Respiratory Hazards may include:
- Harmful dusts (lead, silica, and other heavy metals)
- Fumes and smokes (welding fume)
- Gases and vapors (chemical exposures)
- Oxygen deficiency (oxidation, displacement, and consumption)
- Biological hazards (tuberculosis, whooping cough, flu viruses)
Respirator Requirements
Prior to issuing respirators, the workplace must first be assessed to determine if there is a need for respiratory protection. Supervisors must contact EH&S at 607-255-8200 to schedule an assessment.
If the assessment determines that the use of respiratory protection is required, employees must be medically cleared, trained, and respirator fit tested prior to respirator use.
Employees who are required to use respirators must also complete the training and fit testing requirements on an annual basis.
Respirator fit testing and training can be scheduled by contacting EH&S at 607-255-8200.