How often is respirator training required?
Updated October 16, 2026
Respirator training is required before an employee first uses a respirator and at least annually after that, under 29 CFR 1910.134(k)(3) and (k)(5). Tight-fitting respirators also require fit testing before first use and at least annually under 1910.134(f)(2).
Initial and annual training
1910.134(k)(3) requires the employer to provide training before requiring an employee to use a respirator in the workplace. Under (k)(5), retraining must be administered annually, and also when changes in the workplace or type of respirator make previous training obsolete, when an employee's knowledge or use shows the employee has not retained the required understanding or skill, or in any other situation where retraining appears necessary for safe respirator use.
Under (k)(4), an employer that can show a new employee received training within the last 12 months covering the required elements does not have to repeat it, provided the employee can demonstrate knowledge of those elements. That training must still be repeated no later than 12 months after the date of the previous training. Training must be conducted in a manner the employee understands ((k)(2)).
What employees must be able to demonstrate
1910.134(k)(1) requires that each employee be able to demonstrate knowledge of at least: why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, use, or maintenance can compromise it; its limitations and capabilities; how to use it in emergencies, including malfunctions; how to inspect, put on, remove, use, and check the seals; maintenance and storage procedures; how to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent effective use; and the general requirements of 1910.134.
The standard requires demonstrated knowledge, not just attendance.
Annual fit testing
For tight-fitting facepiece respirators, 1910.134(f)(2) requires a fit test before initial use, whenever a different facepiece (size, style, model, or make) is used, and at least annually thereafter. The test must be a qualitative or quantitative fit test as specified in the paragraph ((f)(1)).
Under (f)(3), an additional fit test is required when the employee reports, or the employer, PLHCP, supervisor, or program administrator observes, changes in the employee's physical condition that could affect fit, such as facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an obvious change in body weight.
Medical evaluation
1910.134(e)(1) requires a medical evaluation to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator. Unlike training and fit testing, the standard does not require an annual medical evaluation.
Additional evaluations are required under (e)(7) when an employee reports related medical signs or symptoms, when a PLHCP, supervisor, or program administrator says reevaluation is needed, when program information such as fit test observations indicates a need, or when workplace conditions change in a way that may substantially increase the physiological burden on the employee.
Voluntary use and records
For employees who wear respirators when neither the standard nor the employer requires it, (k)(6) requires the employer to provide the advisory information in Appendix D to 1910.134 in written or oral form.
1910.134(m)(2) requires a record of fit tests, including the employee's name or identification, the type of test, the respirator make, model, style, and size, and the test date. Paragraph (m) does not list a separate training record.