Respiratory Protection
Typical respiratory hazards encountered in the construction industry include chemicals and dusts from wood, brick, cement and concrete. Prolonged unprotected exposure to these hazards can result in employees developing respiratory diseases such as occupational asthma and lung cancer.

Selecting and specifying the appropriate respiratory protective equipment may appear daunting, with multiple factors to consider - the equipment needs to not only provide appropriate protection for the job, but also be comfortable enough for the individual user to wear during the whole period.

The Selection of Respiratory Protection follows a basic four-step method:

• Identify the Hazards - dust, metal fume, gas, vapour
• Assess the Hazards - measure the hazard level/other protection - skin and eye
• Select the Respirator - disposable, half mask, full face, powered, airline
• Training in fitting and use - to optimise respiratory protection

Back to previous page