Most occupational exposures do not require respiratory protection. If you think that you need a respirator contact Environmental Health & Radiation Safety. An Industrial Hygienist from EHRS will conduct a health hazard assessment to determine your potential exposure. He/She will determine if engineering controls, a change in work practices or the substitution of less hazardous chemical can be used to reduce your exposure. If your exposure cannot be reduced, you will be provided a respirator.

If EHRS determines that your work requires the use of a respirator, we will specify the type and model respirator that your supervisor will purchase for you and provide you with special training to assure that you can safely wear a respirator. Do not purchase or use any respiratory protective equipment until you have received training from EHRS.

You may not provide your own respirator (or any other personnel protective equipment) unless EHRS has completed a hazard assessment for your work.

If you would like more information about respirator protection, please contact Lisa Krause, Industrial Hygienist, by calling 215-898-4453 or by sending e-mail to: lkrause@ehrs.upenn.edu.