What type of respirators must be used under OSHA regulations for lead exposure?

The use of P100 respirators under OSHA regulations for lead exposure is essential due to their high efficiency in filtering airborne particles, including lead dust. P100 respirators are designed to filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles, providing a high level of protection against hazardous substances such as lead. This makes them suitable for environments where lead exposure is a concern, ensuring that workers are shielded from inhaling harmful lead particles that can lead to serious health issues.

In contrast, other types of respirators mentioned do not meet the same level of filtration effectiveness required for lead exposure. For example, N95 respirators are rated to filter 95% of airborne particles, which may not provide sufficient protection in lead-contaminated environments. The R100 and A100 classifications do not correspond with the specific requirements set by OSHA for lead exposure, as R respirators are typically used for oils and A respirators are for specific gases or vapors that are not primarily focused on particle filtration.

Overall, the choice of P100 respirators is aligned with OSHA's commitment to ensuring worker safety in environments with lead hazards, making it the correct response in this context.