The Past, Present & Future of Respiratory Protection 

Episode 139

The Past, Present & Future of Respiratory Protection 

A look back at the history of respiratory research and standards is eye-opening when you consider how much respiratory protection has done for us in the past two and a half years.

There is a common phrase that gets thrown around from time to time: “It is as easy as breathing.” Breathing can be easy. In fact, it's an instinctual action that raises and lowers our chests, brings oxygen to our lungs and, in turn, helps our hearts pump blood through our bodies. There are times when breathing can be difficult, however. In these occasions, it is not the action of breathing that makes it hard, it is the air being brought in that can create complications. 

As discussed in previous episodes of the podcast, we will be looking back into the history of important topics in the occupational health and safety industry in honor of OH&S' 90th anniversary. We’ve covered the history of occupational health and safety itself, the evolution of fall protection, the right for workers to know what chemicals they are working with, and now we will discuss the history of respiratory protection.  

Download or stream this episode today at Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and more

A special thank you to Big Ass Fans

For more than 20 years, Big Ass Fans has been the industry leader in comfort. Its state-of-the-art fans, evaporative coolers, and heaters have transformed the most inhospitable of spaces into the most inviting of environments. Serving industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, every Big Ass Fans product is engineered for unequaled performance. Learn more at BigAssFans.com.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the former editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • Glove Guard® Clip

    Safety should never be compromised, especially when it comes to proper glove usage. The Glove Guard® clip enhances safety by encouraging employees to keep their gloves with them at all times. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. By ensuring everyone has their gloves readily available, we help promote a culture of safety and efficiency. The Glove Guard® clip is designed to withstand the toughest work environments. Constructed from robust materials made in the USA, it can endure extreme conditions, including harsh weather, and rigorous activities. Read More

  • AirChek Connect Sampling Pump

    Stay connected to your sampling with the SKC AirChek® Connect Sampling Pump! With its Bluetooth connection to PC and mobile devices, you can monitor AirChek Connect pump operation without disrupting workflow. SKC designed AirChek Connect specifically for all OEHS professionals to ensure accurate, reliable flows from 5 to 5000 ml/min and extreme ease of use. AirChek Connect offers easy touch screen operation and flexibility. It is quality built to serve you and the workers you protect. Ask about special pricing and a demo at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

Featured