CSLB C-46 Solar ContractorSafetyMedium
A solar technician is working on a commercial roof with a significant amount of bird droppings and dust. Which of the following respiratory protection is MOST appropriate for preventing inhalation hazards in this environment?
- AN95 particulate respirator
- BFull-face supplied-air respirator
- CDust mask (comfort mask)
- DSurgical mask
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. N95 particulate respirator
Bird droppings can contain pathogens like histoplasmosis, and dust can contain silica or other irritants. An N95 respirator is designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles and is appropriate for protecting against non-oil-based particulates, including dust and biological aerosols, when properly fit-tested.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A full-face supplied-air respirator is for environments with high concentrations of hazardous gases, vapors, or oxygen deficiency, which is overkill for this scenario unless specific toxic gases are present.
- C. Dust masks (comfort masks) are not NIOSH-approved respirators and offer minimal protection against hazardous particulates.
- D. Surgical masks are designed to prevent the wearer from expelling droplets, not to protect the wearer from inhaling small airborne particles.
N95 Respirator Use
An N95 respirator is a NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirator that filters at least 95% of airborne particles (non-oil-based), used for protection against dusts, mists, and biological aerosols.
- Requires fit-testing for proper seal.
- Not for gases or vapors.
- Must be part of a comprehensive respiratory protection program.
Memory trick: N-95 for dust and bugs, keeps your lungs safe from airborne hugs!