A respirator is a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that individuals wear to protect themselves from inhalation of particulate contaminants (dust, aerosols, fumes, biological contaminants), gas and vapour contaminants and oxygen deficiency (low oxygen in air). There are numerous types of respirators, each of which must be carefully selected, properly fitted, inspected and cleaned.

Respirators are required to control exposure only after supervisors have exhausted all alternative engineering and administrative controls, such as ventilation, enclosing the process, substitution of less hazardous products, rescheduling of work procedures, etc. to restrict employee exposure.

Faculty and staff required to wear a respirator at UBC must follow the Respiratory Protection Guidelines and UBC's Respiratory Program Manual.

For further information, please contact:

Sonny Dhasi
604-822-6098