Respiratory Protection Program
Respirator selection, medical evaluation, fit testing, maintenance, and training.
The regulation that requires it in Illinois
Federal OSHA requires a written respiratory protection program under 29 CFR 1910.134(c)(1). Illinois follows federal OSHA rules with no approved state plan for private employers. Public sector employers are covered by IL OSHA under the same federal standard.
Enforcing agency
Federal OSHA — Region V (public sector covered by IL OSHA) enforces the rule. Inspectors visit workplaces to check written programs, fit testing, and medical evaluations. They issue citations under federal authority and coordinate with IL OSHA for public sector sites.
State-specific requirements beyond the federal baseline
No state-specific overrides beyond the federal baseline were found in our research for Illinois.
Penalties for non-compliance in Illinois
Penalties follow the standard Federal OSHA — Region V (public sector covered by IL OSHA) schedule and refer the reader to the agency for current amounts.
How to comply
- Write a site-specific program covering hazard assessment, respirator selection, medical evaluations, fit testing, maintenance, training, and annual evaluation.
- Perform medical evaluations and fit testing before employees use respirators.
- Train workers on respirator use, limitations, and care.
- Keep the program updated when hazards or processes change.
- Review and document the program at least annually.