Computing partial-shift respirator use periods

Occasionally, airborne contaminant concentrations cannot be reduced to desired levels, even after the installation of feasible engineering controls. The industrial hygienist may have to recommend full-shift or partial-shift use of appropriate respirators to reduce exposures. The method described allows the industrial hygienist to recommend the minimum period of time an exposed employee needs to use a respirator in order to reach the desired exposure level. The procedure is based on the calculation of Time-Weighted Averages, using the upper confidence levels of air sampling data, and the respirator protection factors.