Respiratory Protection

Engineering controls are the first and most important method for reducing lead exposure. Unfortunately, these methods are not always effective at bringing lead exposure down to appropriate levels. Therefore, there are times when respirators must be used to supplement engineering controls and reduce worker lead exposures below the PEL.

Respirators are required when engineering controls are insufficient in reducing employee exposures to or below the PEL and when employees request a respirator.

In addition, the Lead Standard requires respirators when an employee's exposure to lead exceeds the PEL and in the following circumstances:

• Conducting an initial assessment of lead contamination
• Installing or implement engineering controls
• Conducting tasks formerly determined to be high exposure (before the initial assessment is complete)

Please note that when daily airborne lead exposure is more than 50 µg/m³, workers must wear respirators before entering the work area. They should not remove them until they leave the high-exposure area or have completed a decontamination procedure.

Employers must provide respirators at no cost to workers.

To learn more about Construction Lead Safety visit our Construction Lead Safety Online Training Certification web page.