Which organization approves respirators for use in lead inspection?

The correct answer is NIOSH, which stands for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. This organization is responsible for the testing and certification of respirators that are intended for use in various hazardous environments, including those that involve lead exposure during inspections.

NIOSH evaluates respirators to ensure they meet specific performance standards and adequately protect workers from inhaling harmful substances such as lead. Once a respirator passes the testing criteria set by NIOSH, it can be approved for use in work settings where lead exposure is a concern.

OSHA focuses more on setting and enforcing workplace safety regulations, including standards for respirator use, but NIOSH is the agency that specifically approves respiratory devices. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) is primarily concerned with public health issues and not specifically with respirator approval. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) establishes regulations on lead-based paint and other environmental hazards but does not approve respirators. Therefore, NIOSH plays the critical role in ensuring respirators meet safety requirements for lead inspection.