The OSHA respiratory standard requires a written respiratory protection program for situations in which permissible exposure levels (PELs) of airborne contaminants could be exceeded or when the employer requires use of respirators by workers. This training will assist agriculture-based employers who require respirator use to comply with the OSHA respiratory protection program standard. Training includes written worksite specific procedures, program evaluation, selection of an appropriate respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), training, fit testing, inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and storage, medical evaluation, work area surveillance and air quality standards.

At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to: 

1. Recognize the diverse respiratory hazards unique to agricultural and the justification for a comprehensive respiratory program. 
2. Identify the OSHA respirator standards that apply to an agricultural setting. 
3. Understand key components of an effective respiratory protection program. 
4. Learn how to access resources, templates, medical evaluations, and further trainings to effectively implement a respiratory program.

This material was produced under a grant (SH-31230-SH7) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial products, or organization imply endorsement by the U.S. Government