Under the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) as revised in 2015, there are new requirements for pesticide handlers when product labels require the use of a respirator.

Before handlers can use a respirator, they must receive:

  1. A medical evaluation by a physician or other licensed health care professional,
  2. Fit testing with a taste/smell/irritating indicator, or with quantitative measurements, and
  3. Training about the use, care, and maintenance of the respirator.
new respirator guide

WPS Respiratory Protection Guide
Requirements for Employers of Pesticide Handlers

This new guide from PERC includes:

  • Guidance on selecting respirators based on new/old label language
  • Medical evaluation options
  • Step-by-step respirator fit-testing procedures
  • Respirator cleaning/maintenance guidance
  • Frequently asked questions such as, "Can I perform my own fit-test?" and "Are web-based medical evaluations allowed?"

Purchase printed copies of the guide from NPSEC. If you would like to print or download the guide, click here for a high quality version (48 pp, 3.5MB).

This publication is also available in Spanish. For a high quality print version (48 pp, 3.5MB) click here.

This version was revised in October 2017. Click here for a summary of changes.

Many thanks to the English and Spanish development teams!

   

The following resources will provide guidance to handler employers, pesticide handlers, and medical professionals.

ventilation criteria fact sheet