Who is responsible for supplying a respirator to the employees?

The responsibility of supplying a respirator to employees falls under the employer's duties. This aligns with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations that require employers to provide their employees with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, when there are hazards present that could pose a respiratory risk.

Employers are obligated to assess the workplace for potential airborne hazards, determine the appropriate type of respirator needed, and ensure it's available to employees who may be exposed to these risks. Additionally, employers must provide training on how to use the respirators effectively and ensure they are maintained in proper condition.

While employees may have a role in ensuring their own safety by using the equipment provided, the onus is on the employer to provide the necessary protective gear as part of their commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.