Information Bulletin

Issued: January 18, 1999

Ministry Updates Respirator Policy for NIOSH Approved Particulate Respirators

The U.S. National Institute for Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a new set of regulations in 42 CFR 84, referred as "Part 84" for testing and certifying nonpowered air-purifying particulate-filter respirators. After July 10, 1998 U.S. manufacturers cannot sell or supply respirators with Part 11 particulate filters as NIOSH-approved.

The new Part 84 respirators and filters have passed a more demanding certification test and are replacing the old dust and mist [DM], dust fume and mist [DFM], spray paint, pesticide, HEPA, etc. certified under 30 CFR 11, also referred to as "Part 11".

Changes to the new regulations affect only non powered, air-purifying, particulate-filter respirators and filters. There are no changes for all the other classes of respirators: chemical cartridge; self-contained breathing apparatus [SCBA]; airline; gas masks without a particulate filter; or powered air purifying respirators [PAPRs] equipped with high efficiency filters. The requirements for these types of respirators have been transferred to Part 84 unchanged.

Ministry of Labour Policy

It is Ministry of Labour policy to continue to accept both the new approved respirators under part 84 and the old respirators for dusts, mists and fumes, approved under the old Part 11, up until May 10, 1999, as long as the old respirators are in good physical condition and are appropriate for the type and concentration of an airborne contaminant.

After May 10, 1999 Inspectors will issue orders under clause 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act to require the new respirators or filters.

In the meantime, Ministry of Labour field staff will strongly recommend employers purchase the new approved respirators when the old respirators need to be replaced. Manufacturers should be contacted for information regarding the correct class of new particulate respirator or filter to purchase.

For further information please contact:

Don Brown, IHSP Provincial Specialist - (416) 326-7906
Evelyn Stefov, CHSP Provincial Specialist - (416) 326-7769
John Vergunst, MHSP Provincial Specialist - (705) 670-5704
Dave Leong, PSS Provincial Hygienist - (416) 326-1431