Programs and Services

Respiratory Protection

USF's goal for managing airborne contaminants is by elimination of the source, substitution to a less hazardous chemical, or proper engineering controls. If these methods cannot be used, an appropriate respirator will be selected and fit tested by EH&S.

1. Contact EH&S for a Process Evaluation

The first step is to determine if respirator use is required. Contact EH&S at ehs-labsafety@usf.edu.

If respirator use is not required, only a filtering facepiece respirator may be be used on a voluntary basis. [Respirator Voluntary Use Form]

2. Medical Evaluation

If the process evaluation determines that a respirator is necessary, a medical evaluation will be needed to clear an individual for respirator use. The medical questionnaire must be reviewed and signed by a licensed healthcare provider.

Respirator Medical Questionnaire [Printable PDF]  [Fillable PDF]
Respirator Request for Medical Clearance [Printable PDF]  [Fillable PDF]

3. Training

Training is required initially and annually [Respiratory Protection Training (online)]

4. Respirator Fit Testing

The USF EH&S department is responsible for performing fit testing on National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certified protective facepieces, hoods, and helmets designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous contaminants in the air. An exception to the use of a NIOSH certified and approved respirator may be granted due to limited availability of respirator supplies or when emergency use authorization has been granted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), NIOSH, or the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA). USF’s Respiratory Protection Program complies with OSHA's respiratory protection standard at 29 CFR 1910.134.

Schedule a Fit Test with EH&S (USF affiliated individuals only)