• Air contaminants include airborne particles of dust, fumes, vapors, mists and gases that can be inhaled.
• Employers must determine what types of air contaminants may be in their workplaces and control them using engineering controls and/or PPE.

An air contaminant is any substance which is accidentally or unwillingly introduced into the air, having the effect of rendering the air toxic or harmful to some degree.

Through inhalation, airborne particles of dust, fumes, vapors, mists, and gases may be taken into the body. These particles can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. They may be absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to affect additional organs.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)’s requirements protect employees from occupational exposure to air contaminants. The regulation applies to all workers who may be subjected to workplace air contaminants. The regulation lists various substances along with permissible exposure limits (PELs).

Employers must:

• Determine the types and amounts of air contaminants in the workplace.
• Control sources of air contamination by using engineering controls, or, if necessary, by using personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Inform employees of what air contaminants are in the workplace and how they can protect themselves from them.
• Discuss any necessary PPE with workers and demonstrate proper use, cleaning, and storage of the equipment.
• Periodically test the air in the facility for the presence of air contaminants (as conditions warrant).