DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE
NOTE: This page is archived for historical purposes and is no longer being maintained or updated.
NIOSH Interim Respiratory Protection Recommendations for Deepwater Horizon Response Workers
Location | Hazard Identification | Respirator Needed? | Recommended Type |
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Source: Near damaged well | VOCs*, crude oil, dispersant | When:
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Off shore: Burning oil | VOCs, smoke, soot, partially oxidized fuel, metals (V, Cr, Ni); CO, CO2, and NOx; Fire hazards | When:
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Off shore: Not burning oil | VOC | When:
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Shoreline and marsh | Oil mist, tar and surface contamination | When:
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Decontamination of PPE, vessels, and equipment (e.g., booms) | Oil mist, tar and surface contamination | When:
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Decontamination of Wildlife | Spray from struggling birds; ammonia, injury hazards from pecking and talon scratches; VOCs | When:
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SOURCE: NIOSH/OSHA Interim Guidance for Protecting Deepwater Horizon Workers and Volunteers, http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/oilspillresponse/protecting/ .
*Abbreviations: CO = carbon monoxide; CO2 = carbon dioxide; Cr = chromium; HE = high efficiency; Ni = nickel; NOx = oxides of nitrogen (e.g. nitric oxide or nitrogen dioxide); OV = organic vapor; P100 = NIOSH-approved particulate filtering respirator that is strongly resistant to oil and filters at least 99.97% of airborne particles; PAPR=Powered Air-Purifying Respirator; PPE = personal protective equipment; V = vanadium; VOCs = volatile organic compounds.
- Page last reviewed: July 26, 2010 (archived document)
- Content source:
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Office of the Director