NPMCA, National Pavement Maintenance Contractors Association

Academy / resources

External Resource3 min

NIOSH Respirator Types and Use

NIOSH's guide to the types of respirators, what each protects against, and how to tell a NIOSH-approved respirator from a look-alike. Crews buying dust masks at the hardware store should read this first, because not every mask is a respirator. Supervisors can use it when selecting PPE for sawing, grinding, or spraying work.

External authoritative source. The named publisher maintains this material. Source verified means NPMCA checked the source identity, link and classification; it does not mean NPMCA technically reviewed or approved the underlying regulation or guidance. Open the source for current requirements.
Open source — NIOSH (CDC)

Free · outside site

For
New Crew Member, Laborer, Equipment Operator, Sealcoating Technician, Crack Repair Technician, Asphalt Maintenance Technician, Pavement Marking Technician, Concrete Maintenance Technician, Snow and Ice Worker, Crew Leader, Foreman, Supervisor
Jurisdiction
US-federal
Version
1.0 · Published
Source identity checked
2026-09-09
Maintained by
NIOSH (CDC)

Sources

  1. [1]Respirator Types and Use — NIOSH (CDC) · updated March 4, 2025 · checked 2026-09-09

Educational only. Your employer is responsible for the safety and compliance program on your job. Talk to a qualified professional where a decision depends on it.