Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

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Personal protective equipment is clothing (for example, gloves, rubber boots) or devices (for example, respirators, safety goggles) worn by workers to protect against hazardous environments.

• Gloves for Handling Pesticides, PDF ( En Español, PDF) - due to PPE shortage during the current COVID-19 crisis, DPR has compiled some glove-safety tips.
• N95 Alternatives for Pesticide Handling, PDF ( En Español, PDF) - due to PPE shortage during the current COVID-19 crisis, DPR has compiled a list of respirators and exposure controls that offer the same or better protection for employees who are required to use N95 respirators
• Glove category selection key, PDF (En Español, PDF | ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਵਿੱਚ, PDF | Ua Lus Hmoob, PDF) - provides guidance when the PPE on the pesticide label lists a chemical-resistance category code (A through H) for gloves.
• Glove Category Selection Key Card, PNG (En Español, PNG | ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਵਿੱਚ, PNG | Ua Lus Hmoob, PNG)

Respiratory Protection Compliance Assistance

Respiratory Protection Regulations

• Title 3, California Code of Regulations, Section 6739 - text of respiratory protection and associated regulations.

Compliance Assistance

• Respiratory protection program guidelines, HS-1513 Fillable Form, PDF (En Español, PDF) - compliance assistance for developing a written program.
• Medical evaluation questionnaire, PDF (En Español, PDF).
• Respirator regulation handout, PDF (January 2008), - developed by the Napa County Agricultural Commissioner's office.
• Summary of Worker Safety and Protection Regulations, PDF - developed by the Sacramento County Agricultural Commissioner's Office.
• Voluntary respiratory provisions, PDF (February 2008) - Q&A handout
• Compliance Documentation for Section 6739 (o)(5) End-of-Service Life - pesticide-specific directions from the respirator manufacturer.
• Color Coding for NIOSH Approved Respirator Cartridges and Canisters, PDF - this list is not comprehensive. Always follow pesticide label instructions, regulations, and permit conditions when selecting respiratory protection.

Recommended Reading

• Small Entity Compliance Guide, PDF - by the U.S. Dept. of Labor to assist in managing a respiratory protection program.
• Respiratory Protection in the Workplace, A Practical Guide for Small-Business Employers, PDF (2005) by the California Department of Industrial Relations.

For content questions, contact:
Christopher D. Stonum
3077 Fite Circle Sacramento, CA 95827
(916) 603-7813
E-mail: Christopher.stonum@cdpr.ca.gov