Respiratory Protection Program

Half face, full face, and N95 respirators

Respirators are used to protect people from inhaling hazardous materials in the air when ventilation and other control methods are not available. These materials can be in the form of gases, vapors, mists, dusts or fumes. Required procedures and responsibilities for respirator use are outlined in the Respiratory Protection Program.

Appendix A Procedures for respirator use

Appendix B Respirator Hazard Assessment fill in form

Respirator Care Checklist

For further information please contact our Health and Safety Technician.

For information on N95 respirators and their use please visit our N-95 program page.

A clean shaven face is required by OSHA for individuals wearing (or being fitted for) a tight fitting respirator. This includes an N-95 and any other respirator. The purpose of the requirement is to protect the individual wearing the respirator.

NIOSH and the CDC have worked together to compile the infographic below, illustrating which facial hairstyles will and will not work with a respirator. ISU EHS utilizes this guidance when performing respirator fit tests. This CDC Facial Hair Guide is available for printing and sharing.

Multiple rows of men showing off compliant and non-compliant facial hair that work with respirators. Accepted facial hairstyles are: clean shaven, soul patches, short sideburns, and most mustaches.