NIOSH respirator decision logic

This document was intended to provide industrial hygienists and others knowledgeable in respirator selection with a procedure for selecting suitable classes of respirators for particular concentrations of specific contaminants. The Respirator Decision Logic which was developed by NIOSH and OSHA in 1975 (and updated in 1978) was modified in light of new developments, including the increased use of respirators for carcinogens, the development of new respirators, and information on workplace protection factors. The design logic included criteria for selecting respirators, restrictions and requirements for all respirator usage, and a sequence of determining steps. Specific information was provided concerning oxygen deficient atmospheres, exposure limits, eye irritation, escape apparatus, potential warning properties for use with cartridge/canister air purifying respirators, limitations of respirators for gases and vapors, assigned protection factors, particulate filter respirators, and suggested medical evaluatio