Respiratory Protection

Faculty and staff at Pitt must be protected from inhaling atmospheres that exceed hazardous concentrations of dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, gases, and microorganisms. To obtain respiratory protection equipment, an employee or supervisor should contact EH&S and request an evaluation of exposure and need for respiratory protection.

EH&S will provide the guidance necessary for the proper selection of respirators. EH&S is also responsible for training on the use and maintenance of respirators.

When a respirator is required, a medical questionnaire/evaluation is completed to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator and an initial respirator fit test is performed. Fit testing will be conducted annually or whenever an employee experiences a physical change that may affect respiratory fit (e.g. weight changes, surgery, dental changes, facial scarring). 

EH&S SOP 07-001: Respiratory Protection Program

EH&S SOP 07-002: Respirable Crystalline Silica

COVID-19 Guidance

For information on COVID-19 mitigation, including use of face masks:

Latest information on COVID-19 can be found on the Pitt's Public Safety & Emergency Management website.