The NIOSH label serves several purposes. It ensures selection of appropriate filters for the contaminants encountered in the workplace and permits the employee using the respirator to check and confirm that the respirator has the appropriate filters before the respirator is used. Color coding and labeling allow fellow employees, supervisors, and the respirator program administrator to readily determine that the employee is using the appropriate filters.
An employer may adopt whatever procedures are appropriate to ensure that the label remains on the filter and is not removed, defaced, or obscured during respirator usage.