Respiratory protection should be relied on against fumes and gases as:

• A. The primary safeguard against fumes and gases
• B. Only when ventilation fails
• C. Should only be relied on as a last measure
• D. Unnecessary if PPE is worn

Answer: (C)

Respiratory protection is a last defense for fumes and gases. In welding, the safest approach is to first use engineering controls like local exhaust ventilation or enclosure to remove or dilute fumes at the source. If those controls can’t bring exposure to safe levels, or if conditions are temporary or unpredictable, then administrative controls and safe work practices come next to minimize exposure. Respirators protect the wearer but rely on proper selection, fit, maintenance, and correct use, and they don't remove contaminants from the work environment for everyone. Because of these limits, they should be relied on only after other controls have been considered or implemented.