Respirator color coding

Respirators are sometimes desirable or required when performing certain tasks in the chemical analysis laboratory. There is a standardized color code system used by all manufacturers for the specification and selection of the cartridges and filters that are used with respirators. The following table provides guidance in the selection of the proper cartridge using the color code. 

CHAPTER 7 MINIMIZING, CONTROLLING, AND MANAGING HAZARDS TABLE 7.3.5.1 Color Coding for Selected Respirator Cartridges and Canisters ... 

Table 28-4 lists the color coding of canisters. Canisters must have labels that state what gases and gas concentrations they handle. Because contaminants and concentrations in an environment can vary with time, use of canister respirators needs careful application. 

All filters and cartridges shall be labeled and color-coded with the NIOSH approval label. The label must not be removed and must remain legible. A change schedule for filters and canisters has been developed to ensure that these elements of the respirators remain effective. 

Workcenter supervisors select respirators. Selection is based on matching the proper color-coded cartridge with the type of protection desired. Selection is also dependent upon the quality of fit and the nature of the work being done. Cartridge type respirators are issued to the individuals who are required to use them. Each individually assigned respirator is identified in a way that does not interfere with its performance. Questions about the selection process are to be referred to the Safety Division. 

The NIOSH label serves several purposes. It ensures selection of appropriate filters for the contaminants encountered in the workplace and permits the employee using the respirator to check and confirm that the respirator has the appropriate filters before the respirator is used. Color coding and labeling allow fellow employees, supervisors, and the respirator program administrator to readily determine that the employee is using the appropriate filters. 

Color-coded systems are used to label hazardous materials. Some labels use colored bars or diamonds that indicate the type of hazard. A red bar or diamond indicates a fire hazard. Yellow bars or diamonds indicate a reactivity hazard. Blue bars or diamonds indicate health hazards. White bars identify the need for personal protective equipment such as glasses, gloves, faceshields, rubber aprons, or respirators. A white diamond contains symbols regarding the health hazards the chemical may cause, warnings such as OX for oxidizer, ACID for acid, ALK for alkali, COR for corrosive, W for use no water, and a radioactive symbol. 

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