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News Release
Tuesday, July 21, 1998
Contact: Jeff Ezell (202) 219-8151

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will sponsor an interagency workgroup Aug. 6 in Washington to discuss available information on respirator cartridge and canister change-out schedules.

The meeting, which will include representatives from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is open to the public. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the U.S. Department of Labor auditorium in the Frances Perkins Building, 200 Constitution Ave., N.W.

OSHA published a revised version of its Respiratory Protection Standard, 29 CFR 1910.134, (63 FR 1152) on Jan. 8, 1998. It becomes enforceable on Oct. 5.

The standard specifies that, under certain circumstances, employers must implement a change-out schedule for respirator canisters and cartridges used to reduce workers' exposure to gases and vapors. Change-out schedules establish the time periods for replacing cartridges and canisters. This is essential in preventing harmful agents from penetrating respirators and exposing workers.

OSHA requests that individuals planning to address the group submit a copy of their presentation to Elaine Bynum, Docket Officer, Docket No. H-049b, OSHA Docket Office, Room N-2625, 200 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C., 20210. Copies of submissions will be available at the meeting and the docket office.

Due to limited seating, space will be assigned on first-come, first-served basis. All individuals who plan to attend should contact Theresa Berry at (202) 219-8151 ext.106, fax (202)219-5986. Persons with disabilities also should contact her by July 31 to obtain appropriate accommodations.

Notice of this meeting appeared in the Federal Register, July 21, 1998.

The text of this news release is on the Internet World Wide Web at http://www.osha.gov. Information on this news release will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: 202-219-8151.