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Respirators are designed to protect you from all sorts of potential airborne hazards, including lead and silica dust, mold, asbestos, and toxic gases. But a respirator mask won’t protect you from these hazards if it doesn’t fit your face properly. If there is any distance between the mask and the sides of your face, these toxins and hazards could easily slip inside the face mask. Exposure to these substances can lead to a range of health concerns, including respiratory conditions, cance …

Not everyone can wear a half- or full-face respirator while working. There are several conditions spelled out in the OSHA standards where respirator masks either won't work, or put the wearer in danger. The most frequent impediment to having a mask fit and therefore work properly is facial hair. OSHA is very specific in the new (1998) guidelines. In section 29 CFR 1910.134(g), Use of Respirators, it states: "Facepiece seal protection. The employer shall not permit respirators with …