Workers in food processing and manufacturing industries may be exposed to a number of respiratory hazards such as particulate contaminants (i.e., dusts, fibres, mists, fumes), biological contaminants, and gas and vapor contaminants. Employers are responsible for providing adequate protection for workers where these hazards are present. Each of these hazards may require a different types of respirator or other personal protective equipment.

This safety topic shares information about some of the respiratory hazards a worker may encounter, and how to identify them. It also provides guidance to help identify which respirator are most effective against these particular respiratory hazards and how to ensure that a respirator is being used properly.