Respiratory Protection

Overview

Respirators protect workers against hazards such as insufficient oxygen environments, harmful dusts, fogs, smokes, mists, gases, vapours and sprays. These hazards have the potential to cause both immediate and long-term effects such as lung impairment, cancer, other diseases or even death.

Fit Testing

For proper protection, a worker must ensure the respirator they are using fits and functions properly. Meaning the equipment must be the proper size and seal to the face. A fit test is to be conducted by a person properly trained in fit testing to ensure the correct size. A fit test is required before a worker uses any respirator for the first time, then must also be conducted on at least once a year. Fit tests may need to be performed more frequently if there has been changes to a workers body such as a significant gain or loss in weight, or facial changes such as dentures or broken jaw bone.

Choosing the Correct Respirator

Choosing the right respirator to protect workers from airborne contaminants is essential. Respirators may not protect you from all contaminants as different contaminants require different protection. There are limitations for each type of respirator and you must be familiar with them prior to using them. General precautionary information can be found in the manufactures operating manual. However, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of an experienced safety professional or occupational hygienist who is familiar with the actual workplace environment and contaminants.

Types of Respirators

Disposable particulate respirators provide minimum protection and are typically used to protect against nuisance dusts and fumes.

• Full mask and half mask air purifying respirators use cartridges and particulate filters. Air purifying respirators only work if you use the right cartridge and/or filter for the specific contaminant. Mechanical filters will block solid particles, while chemical filters soak up substances.

• Supplied air respirators can come in a variety of forms such as self contained breathing apparatuses, air hoods, full body suits, and airlines or work packs.

Conclusion

It is vital to recognise all the chemicals, materials and hazards you may be exposed to, as well as conducting frequent hazard assessments and workplace inspections to help identify and control those hazards. A plan must be implemented to protect the health of all workers by assessing the environment, implementing engineering controls, having safety data sheets available, choosing the right respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment for the specific hazards.