Respirator Training Requirements
Complete guide to OSHA-required respirator training. Topics, frequency, and compliance requirements explained.
The Respirator Compliance Sequence
OSHA requires these steps in order before employees can use respirators
Training
Education on proper use, hazards, and procedures
Fit Testing
Verify respirator seal (in-person)
Respirator Use
Employee authorized to use respirator
OSHA Required Training Topics
Why Respirators Are Necessary
Explain the respiratory hazards present in the workplace and why respiratory protection is required
Respirator Limitations
Capabilities and limitations of the specific respirator type, including factors that reduce protection
Proper Use
How to inspect, put on (don), remove (doff), use the respirator, and perform user seal checks
Maintenance & Storage
Proper cleaning, disinfection, storage, inspection, and repair procedures
Emergency Procedures
What to do in emergency situations, including IDLH atmospheres and respirator malfunctions
Medical Signs & Symptoms
Recognizing symptoms that may limit or prevent effective respirator use
Training Frequency Requirements
OSHA requires respirator training at specific intervals and events to ensure employees maintain proficiency and knowledge.
- Initial Training
Before first time using a respirator
- Annual Retraining
At least once every 12 months
- When Hazards Change
New hazards or workplace conditions
- When Respirator Type Changes
New respirator models or types
- When Knowledge Gaps Observed
If employee shows inadequate knowledge
Documentation Required
OSHA requires employers to document respirator training including:
- Date of training
- Topics covered
- Names of employees trained
- Trainer name/qualification
- Attestation of understanding
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ReviewedRespirator Training FAQs
What is respirator training?
Respirator training is required education for employees who use respiratory protection at work. OSHA 1910.134(k) mandates that employers provide training on: why the respirator is necessary, the respiratory hazards employees will be exposed to, proper use and limitations of the respirator, how to inspect, put on, remove, and check the seal, maintenance and storage procedures, and emergency procedures.
Is respirator training required by OSHA?
Yes. OSHA 1910.134(k) requires employers to provide effective training to employees who are required to use respirators. Training must be provided before initial use of a respirator, whenever there are changes in the workplace or respirator type, when inadequacies in the employee's knowledge are observed, and at least annually to ensure continued proficiency.
What topics must be covered in respirator training?
OSHA requires training to cover: (1) why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit can compromise protection, (2) limitations and capabilities of the respirator, (3) how to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, (4) how to inspect, put on, remove, use, and check the seals, (5) maintenance and storage procedures, (6) how to recognize medical signs that may limit respirator use, and (7) general requirements of the OSHA respirator standard.
How often is respirator training required?
OSHA requires annual retraining as a minimum. However, retraining must also occur when: changes in the workplace render previous training obsolete, changes in respirator type require new knowledge, the employee's behavior indicates inadequate knowledge or skill, or any other situation arises where retraining is necessary to ensure safe respirator use.
Can respirator training be done online?
Yes, the knowledge-based portion of respirator training can be completed online. However, hands-on training for donning, doffing, seal checking, and fit testing must be done in person. Many organizations use a blended approach: online training for the educational component, followed by in-person practical demonstrations and fit testing.
What is the difference between training and fit testing?
Training is education about proper respirator use, hazards, and procedures. Fit testing is a physical test to verify the respirator seals properly to your face. Both are required by OSHA. Training must come before fit testing, and medical clearance must come before both. The sequence is: (1) medical evaluation, (2) training, (3) fit testing.
Who can conduct respirator training?
OSHA does not specify credentials for trainers, but requires that training be effective. Trainers should have knowledge of respiratory protection, OSHA requirements, and the specific respirators being used. Many organizations use safety professionals, industrial hygienists, or certified trainers. Third-party training providers and online courses can supplement in-house training.