When are dust masks and respirators required?

Dust masks and respirators are required when working around airborne particles because these particulate pollutants can pose significant health risks to workers. Such situations might include tasks that generate dust, such as cutting or sanding materials, as well as environments where particles are present in the air due to processes like demolition or construction. The primary function of these protective devices is to filter out harmful substances before they can be inhaled, thus preventing respiratory diseases and ensuring the safety of the worker.

In contrast, while certain activities like handling chemicals or performing maintenance on machinery might also require protection, the specific use of dust masks and respirators is most directly tied to exposure to airborne particulates. Working outdoors can involve other hazards, but it does not inherently necessitate the use of respiratory protection unless specific airborne particles are present.