Page:NIOSH DM DFM respirator evaluation draft.pdf/10

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Performance Evaluation of DM and DFM Filter Respirators—WORKING DRAFT 9.15.92

hazards. NIOSH-certified DM and DFM filters are produced, sold, and widely used for protection against over 200 toxic dusts and mists regulated by OSHA. NIOSH estimates that several million workers depend on DM- and DFM-filter halfmasks for protection against toxic contaminants in their workplaces. Safe and effective filter respirators are essential for assuring safe and healthful working conditions and preventing work-related diseases and injuries in millions of American workers.
  In support of its ongoing rulemaking activities to promulgate 42 CFR Part 84, NIOSH conducted a performance evaluation of dust and mist (DM) and dust, fume, and mist (DFM) filter respirators certified by NIOSH for protection against toxic dusts, fumes, and mists with exposure limits equal to or exceeding 50 micrograms per cubic meter. Based on this evaluation, NIOSH is recommending that the assigned protection factors (APFs) for these devices be substantially lowered from the values currently in general use.

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