Respiratory Protection Program

The regulation that requires it in Washington

Washington runs an approved state plan. The requirement for a respiratory protection program is set by WAC 296-842-14005 and WAC 296-155-17613, which address medical evaluation and fit testing when employees report breathing difficulty.

Enforcing agency

Washington DOSH (Department of Labor & Industries) inspects workplaces covered by the state plan. It issues citations and proposed penalties under state authority. DOSH coordinates with federal OSHA on enforcement priorities but operates independently.

State-specific requirements beyond the federal baseline

• Employers must provide a medical examination when an employee reports difficulty breathing during fit testing or respirator use (WAC 296-842-14005).
• The employer must make a medical examination or consultation available as soon as possible after notification of breathing difficulty (WAC 296-155-17623).
• The employer must notify employees that they must report difficulty breathing during fit testing or respirator use (WAC 296-155-17650).

Penalties for non-compliance in Washington

Penalties follow the standard Washington DOSH (Department of Labor & Industries) schedule; refer to the agency for current amounts.

How to comply

• Customize the written program to your specific workplace hazards and respirator types.
• Provide medical evaluations before fit testing and when breathing difficulty is reported.
• Conduct fit testing while employees wear any additional safety equipment that may be used on the job.
• Train workers on respirator use, care, and when to report breathing problems.
• Review and update the program annually or when workplace conditions change.