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§1910.139* Respiratory protection for M. tuberculosis.
This section applies only to respiratory protection against M. tuberculosis and applies in lieu of
§1910.134.

(a) Permissible practice.
(1) In the control of those occupational diseases caused by breathing air contaminated with harmful
dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the primary objective shall be to prevent
atmospheric contamination. This shall be accomplished as far as feasible by accepted engineering
control measures (for example, enclosure or confinement of the operation, general and local
ventilation, and substitution of less toxic materials). When effective engineering controls are not
feasible, or while they are being instituted, appropriate respirators shall be used pursuant to the
following requirements.

(2) Respirators shall be provided by the employer when such equipment is necessary to protect the
health of the employee. The employer shall provide the respirators which are applicable and suitable
for the purpose intended. The employer shall be responsible for the establishment and maintenance
of a respiratory protective program which shall include the requirements outlined in paragraph (b) of
this section.

(3) The employee shall use the provided respiratory protection in accordance with instructions and
training received.

(b) Requirements for a minimal acceptable program.

(1) Written standard operating procedures governing the selection and use of respirators shall be
established.

(2) Respirators shall be selected on the basis of hazards to which the worker is exposed.

(3) The user shall be instructed and trained in the proper use of respirators and their limitations.

(4) [Reserved]

(5) Respirators shall be regularly cleaned and disinfected. Those used by more than one worker shall
be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use.

(6) Respirators shall be stored in a convenient, clean, and sanitary location.

(7) Respirators used routinely shall be inspected during cleaning. Worn or deteriorated parts shall be
replaced. Respirators for emergency use such as self-contained devices shall be thoroughly inspected
at least once a month and after each use.

(8) Appropriate surveillance of work area conditions and degree of employee exposure or stress shall
be maintained.

* 29 CFR 1910.134 is now codified for protection against TB as 29 CFR 1910.139.

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