Respiratory Protection Selection Respiratory protection devices are available in two basic design types: Air-Purifying Respirators (APR) and Supplied-Air Respirators (SAR). As a trained hazardous materials specialist, your employer asks you to evaluate each of the following four possible workplace conditions:
1. Fiber glass components are being sanded smooth prior to painting by assembly line workers.
2. A leak in a nitrogen supply line within a service closet requires repair but the supply of nitrogen cannot be interrupted.
3. Hydrochloric acid vapor is escaping from a cylinder stored in an outdoor area. Oxygen levels are measured and found to be above 19.5%.
4. A full 55-gallon drum of an organic solvent commonly used in the production process is releasing vapor.
For each of the above four conditions:
• Select the preferred type of respiratory protection device.
• Identify which standardized OSHA filter color the device should be fitted with (if not applicable, so state).
• Explain your rationale for choosing the device type.