Respiratory Hazards

Respiratory hazards come in many forms, each with its own dangers and means of protection.

Some atmospheric conditions can be deadly. These are known as "Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health," or IDLH for short. IDLH atmospheres could be oxygen deficient or might contain highly toxic substances, such as carbon monoxide or chlorine gas. Failure to use respiratory protection in an IDLH atmosphere can result in death within 30 minutes or less.

Some respiratory hazards do not usually result in death but can still cause lifelong health issues. For instance, lead poisoning due to inhalation of lead fumes or dust can result in chronic insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, nausea, and anxiety, among many other symptoms.

The following are types of respiratory hazards, along with some examples:

• Dusts are particulate matter generated from processes such as grinding, drilling, or blasting. Examples include sawdust, coal dust, and silica dust.
• Fumes are solid particles generated when vaporized materials condense during processes such as welding, brazing, and smelting. Examples include lead, zinc, and iron fumes.
• Vapors are the gaseous form of a substance that is normally either solid or liquid. These vapors can be generated from spray coatings, paints, adhesives, and cleaning solvents. Examples include mineral spirits and methylene chloride.
• Gases are used for a number of processes and can also be the byproduct of chemical treatments. Examples include chlorine, ammonia, and carbon monoxide.
• Mists are liquid particles suspended in the air and can be generated during spraying procedures. Examples include paint and oil mists.
• Infectious agents, such as tuberculosis and other diseases, can be present in the air during medical procedures.
• Pharmaceutical particles can be present in the atmosphere during the production of prescription drugs.
• Oxygen deficiency can occur when there is not enough oxygen in the area for normal breathing. This can often occur in confined spaces or at very high altitudes.

To learn more about Respiratory Protection visit our Cal/OSHA Respiratory Protection Online Training web page.