Before you use a Respirator or before you are Fit-Tested, your Employer must evaluate whether or not you are medically able to wear it! DO NOT just fill out a Medical Questionnaire Form in the field and think that you are good to go, because it has to be evaluated by a Physician or other Licensed Healthcare Professional, such as a Registered Nurse or Physician's Assistant!
Respirators can make breathing more difficult, not everyone is able to wear a Respirator, and some conditions that could prevent you from using a Respirator include heart conditions, lung disease, and psychological conditions like claustrophobia.
The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and State OSHA Agencies require that Employers provide these evaluations for free to all workers who are required to wear Respirators on the job.
The OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire is designed to identify general medical conditions that could place a worker at risk of serious medical consequences, if a Respirator is used. The Medical Questionnaire must be administered in a manner that ensures that you understand its content. It is important to answer the questions truthfully.