Workers can now use modern respirators to protect against a toxic chemical

The US Labor Department is updating its rules for respirators used to protect against 1,2-Dibromo-3-Chloropropane, a toxic chemical. This means workers can use a wider range of modern, more effective respirators, aligning with general respiratory protection standards.

For decades, specific rules for certain chemicals meant workers had to use outdated or less effective respirators. This change allows companies to use newer, more comfortable, and often safer equipment that meets current general safety standards. It removes a specific regulatory hurdle that kept older, less protective gear in use.