Respiratory Protection

Respirators can be an effective tool in protecting employees from exposure to airborne physical, biological, or chemical agents, but should only be used when other hazard controls are infeasible. Administrative or engineering controls, such as substituting less toxic products or installing local exhaust ventilation should be considered before assigning respiratory protection.

If you are uncertain whether a respirator is required, contact EHS  at ocsafety@nau.edu to request a workplace assessment. If a respirator is needed, employees must complete the following process with their supervisor PRIOR to respirator use to ensure compliance with OSHA protocol and the components of the NAU Respiratory Protection Program:

  1. Print and complete part 1 (employee) and part 2 (supervisor) of the Respiratory Protection Processing Form, and OSHA Medical Evaluation Questionnaire, then schedule an appointment for “OSHA questionnaire review for respirator fitness” with an (off-campus) occupational medical provider (e.g., East Flagstaff Family Medicine, Concentra, etc.). Bring forms with you to provider.
  2. Following medical clearance to wear respirators, contact EH&S for training and respirator fit testing.
  3. Have your Supervisor complete Part 4 of the Processing form. Copies of the completed form should be provided to the Employee, Supervisor, and EHS for recordkeeping purposes.

Voluntary Use of N95 Respirators

N95 respirators and surgical masks are examples of personal protective equipment that are used to protect the wearer from particles or from liquid contaminating the face. They offer a degree of protection from exposure and can be used on a voluntary basis if desired.

To comply with NAU and State OSHA requirements involving the voluntary use of N95s and other forms of respiratory protection, please review the “Voluntary Use” section in NAU’s Respiratory Protection Program.

The optimal way to prevent transmission of microorganisms, such as viruses, is to use a combination of interventions from across the hierarchy of controls, not just PPE alone.