OSHA Requests Input on Respirator Medical Evaluation Requirements

What’s happening: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is considering changes to its requirements for employees who use filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) and loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs). During an Aug. 20 public hearing, ARTBA staff expressed measured support for the agency’s effort to give employers greater flexibility while maintaining strong worker protections.

What we said: ARTBA emphasized that medical screening, including questionnaires when appropriate, remains a valuable best practice for identifying underlying conditions that could affect an employee’s ability to safely use respiratory protection, particularly when equipment may pose physiological or psychological burdens.

What’s next: During the hearing, OSHA asked ARTBA several questions about employer and employee experiences. Members are encouraged to complete this survey on the effectiveness of current screening practices, worker accommodations, administrative burdens, and potential alternatives to the questionnaire process. Responses will be shared with the agency, as requested by OSHA.