Working around dusts, mists, fumes, aerosols, gases, and vapors can be hazardous to your health. Depending on the contaminant, overexposure can cause lung disease; problems with the liver, kidneys, heart, or nervous system; or cancer.
Employers are responsible for determining the need for using respirators in the workplace. To control contaminants, operations can be enclosed or confined, install general and local ventilation, or substitute less toxic materials. If these controls do not eliminate the risk, wearing an appropriate respirator can protect you.