This program aims to protect the health and safety of Lakehead University workers, students, and visitors from atmospheric contaminants. Respiratory hazards include airborne contaminants such as dusts, mists, fumes, gases, or oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Well-designed and maintained engineering controls are the preferred methods of controlling worker exposure to hazardous contaminants in the air. These control methods include:

• The use of mechanical ventilation. 
• Enclosure or isolation of the process or work equipment.
• Proper control and use of process equipment.
• Process modifications including substitution of less hazardous materials where possible.

This program applies to anyone who is required to use a respirator to protect themselves from any known or potential respiratory hazards to which O. Reg. 833 Control of Exposure to Biological or Chemical Agents or O. Reg. 490 Designated Substances applies. The Respiratory Protection Program will be adminstered as per this procedure.  The Lakehead University's Respiratory Protection Program is in place to ensure personnel are protected from inhaling hazardous substances, such as, but not limited to:

• Particulates
• Fumes
• Mists
• Gases
• Vapours
• Bioaerosols

Use of respirators is to be approved by the Safety Office when:

• Engineering or administrative control measures are not practical, adequate or feasible.
• While the engineering or administrative controls are being instituted.
• During shutdown for maintenance, repair or emergency.

All personnel who require the use of a respirator at work (disposable or elastomeric) must complete training and may obtain fit testing through the Office of Human Resources - Health & Safety (labs) or Physical Plant (TSC, Plant, Security) or may complete fit testing with an external provider.  To access the online training component, email labsafety@lakeheadu.ca

Undergraduate Nursing and Psychology Students who require fit tests should contact the Nursing department to arrange.