• Air-purifying respirators filter dangerous substances from the air
• Supplied-air respirators provide fresh breathing air in oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

Respirators allow confined space entrants to breathe safely without inhaling toxic gases, fumes, or particles. There are two basic types of respirators:

• Air-purifying respirators, which filter dangerous substances from the air; and
• Supplied-air or air-supplying respirators, which deliver a supply of safe breathing air.

Selecting the proper respirator for the job, the hazard, and the person is very important, as is thorough training in the use and limitations of respirators.

• NOTE: Only air-supplying respirators should be used in confined spaces that have oxygen-deficient atmospheres.