Respiratory Protection Program
What is a respirator?
A respirator, or air-filtering face piece, is specifically designed to filter out hazards that may enter the body through the nose and mouth when a person breathes. Use of respirators is strictly regulated in California. To comply with regulations, UC Riverside has a Respiratory Protection Program in place.
When should one be worn?
A respirator may at times be required to protect the health of employees when the work environment is contaminated with materials that are hazardous to breathe. At UCR, this may include but not be limited to the following:
- Employees who enter confined spaces
- Paint sprayers
- Pesticide and fertilizer applicators
- Hazardous materials handlers
- Some researchers
- Asbestos abatement employees
- Some art studio employees
- Employees whose exposure level is at or above the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of the contaminant
Who can wear one?
Employees who need a respirator must first receive certification through the Respiratory Protection Program administered by EH&S. The program ensures employees who use respirators understand their capabilities and limitations.
How do I get one?
Employees requiring respiratory protection are first medically approved by Loma Linda University Medical Center and then trained and fit-tested by EH&S to receive a respirator. Face pieces and filters are issued specifically for the type of materials or atmosphere the employee may encounter and must be individually fitted to the user. If you need a respirator, refer to the How to Get a Respirator section.
For more information
- Glossary of terms
- Fast Facts about Dust Masks
- Fast Facts about Respiratory Protection Equipment