Personal Protective Equipment

Learn more about personal protective equipment and NIOSH resources.

CDC Health Topics A–Z 2 min read
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Content from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (public domain).

Collage of images showing workers wearing different types of respirators Respirator Types and Use Get information on the use of respirators in the workplace. Learn More Feb 3, 2025 Worker in full PPE ensemble About Learn more about PPE worn to minimize exposure to workplace hazards across various industries. Feb 18, 2025 NIOSH Certified Equipment List A worker undergoing qualitative fit testing Fit Testing Learn about respirator fit testing Feb 3, 2025 New and Noteworthy firefighter gear Protecting Firefighters from Contaminated Gear Hazardous substances can transfer from firefighters’ gear to their skin, equipment, and station. Mar 16, 2026 photo of firefighter gear in laundry machine. Laundering Gear to Protect Firefighters Effective cleaning methods can protect firefighters from harmful contaminants on their gear. Mar 16, 2026 Highlights from NIOSH Contributions to Private Sector Standards Development and Activities NIOSH contributes to private sector standards development. Evaluation of Three SCBAs Involved in a Near Miss While Operating at a Structure Fire Summarizes NIOSH’s findings and evaluation of three SCBAs involved in a near miss. Download DownloadHow to Remove Your Gear at a Fire Incident Shows doffing sequence to remove personal protective equipment at a fire incident. Download DownloadTips for Managing Personal Protective Equipment in Your Stockpile: Understanding Respirator Shelf Life Performance Testing of Fraudulent Respirator P100® Filters, Organic Vapor Chemical Cartridges, and Combination Cartridges Details the results of performance testing on fraudulent respirator filters and cartridges Download Download Learn More Image of respirator testing during approval process Respirator Approval Program The NIOSH Respirator Approval Program is responsible for testing and approving respirators. Mar 4, 2025 Image of the NIOSH Certified Equipment List Find NIOSH Approved® FFRs on the CEL Find NIOSH Approved® FFRs on the CEL Feb 18, 2025 Person writing on a checklist. Conformity Assessment Notices Collection of NIOSH Conformity Assessment Notices and Letters. Jan 21, 2025 Waiste down picture of person wearing hazmat suit and carrying a bag marked as hazardous material. Protective Clothing and Ensembles PPE is the fifth and final level within the hierarchy of controls to reduce or remove hazards. Mar 3, 2025 Individual writing on a clipboard Post Market Evaluations Conducted by NIOSH Information on NIOSH’s respirator post-market conformity evaluations. Mar 4, 2025 The concept of protecting the diagnosis and treatment of lung disease. Healthcare Respiratory Protection This webpage provides respiratory protection information and resources for the healthcare sector. Jan 15, 2025

⚠ Caution
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.