Respirators - Medical Clearance

OSHA is proposing removing the medical evaluation requirements in the Respiratory Protection Rule (1910.134) for employees using filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) and loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs). This change is based on the lack of data indicating adverse health effects from using these respirators. Medical evaluations will remain required for other respirator types - exempting only FFRs and loose-fitting PAPRs. Other provisions of the Respiratory Protection Standard remain unchanged. OSHA invites comments on all aspects of the proposed rule.