Reference

OSHA 1910.134(h) requires written procedures for cleaning, inspecting, storing, and repairing respirators. Pre-use inspection is required before every use; emergency respirators require monthly inspection. This guide covers the 1910.134(h) workflow: inspection checklist, cleaning methods, storage conditions, and repair vs replace rules.

OSHA 1910.134(c) requires a written respiratory protection program before mandatory respirator use. This guide decodes all 12 required elements — selection, medical evaluation, fit testing, use procedures, maintenance, and training — with cross-references to relevant 1910.134 subsections and a worked spray-painting contractor example.

OSHA 1910.134(e) requires medical evaluation before a worker uses a required respirator. A Physician or Licensed Health Care Professional (PLHCP) reviews the Appendix C questionnaire and issues a written determination. Covers PLHCP qualifications, questionnaire structure, determination outcomes, re-evaluation triggers, and record rules.

Most OSHA PELs derive from 1968 ACGIH TLVs and have not been updated since 1971 — ACGIH updates TLVs annually. For many chemicals the TLV is 5–20× lower than the PEL, requiring a higher APF respirator. ANSI/ASSP Z88.2 directs employers to use the most protective OEL. This guide covers the practical selection implications.

OSHA 1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B) requires a documented change-out schedule for OV respirators. This guide covers ESLI vs. calculated schedules, 3M Service Life Software inputs, P100 replacement rules, combination OV/P100 dual service life limits, per-SKU guidance for 3M cartridges, and a 6-step worked example for solvent spray painting.

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 governs respiratory protection programs across general industry and construction. This guide covers every major section: written programs, APF selection, medical evaluations, fit testing, user seal checks, cartridge change-out, IDLH requirements, training, recordkeeping, and a step-by-step compliance example.

ANSI/ASSP Z88.2 is the consensus respiratory protection program standard, providing guidance that goes beyond OSHA 1910.134 minimums. It covers hazard identification, respirator selection, written programs, fit testing, and program evaluation. This guide explains Z88.2's structure and how it relates to 1910.134 and NIOSH 42 CFR Part 84.

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.103 is the construction respiratory protection standard. It requires all construction employers to comply with 29 CFR 1910.134 — including written programs, medical evaluations, and fit testing. This guide covers APF selection, silica and asbestos rules, common citation triggers and a worked example for concrete grinding.