Respiratory Protection Program
Region 10
Occupational Health And Safety Office
March 1985
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UNITED STATES
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION 10
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY OFFICE
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98101
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
March 1985
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THE EPA REGION 10 RESPIRATORY
PROTECTION POLICY IS APPROVED
FOR IMPLE^NTATION
ision Directors or Operations Office Directors who have personnel
igned that participate in field activities will assure that those
iividuals are provided with a personal copy of these instructions. When
' employees are assigned to perform field duties which require the use
respiratory protective equipment, Directors will assure that they also
provided with a copy of this document. Additional copies of the
piratory Protection Program are available from the Occupational Health
Safety Officer.
MAR 1 5
esta Barnes
ional Administrator
a McGee, Director
agement Division
tribution: Division Directors
Operation Office Directors
Health and Safety Committee Members
Director, Occupational Health and Safety Division (PM-273)
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RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
EPA - REGION 10
TABLE OF CONTENTS
iction Page
I. INTRODUCTION 1
11. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITY 4
II. MEDICAL MONITORING 7
IV. GENERAL RESPIRATOR CLASSIFICATIONS 8
V. RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING 11
VI. RESPIRATOR SELECTION 13
II. RESPIRATOR USE UNDER SPECIAL CONDITIONS 16
II I. EMPLOYEE TRAINING 17
IX. ISSUANCE OF RESPIRATORS 20
X. CLEANING, INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE, AND STORAGE 20
XI. EVALUATION OF RESPIRATOR PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS 23
pendi x
RESP IRA TOR FIT TEST PRXEDURES 24
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-1-
I. INTRODUCTION
As required by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration's (OSHA) Safety and Health Standards for
Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134), The U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), Region 10, herein presents a Respiratory
Protection Program for use by Regional field personnel. This
program has been developed based upon the requirements of 29 CFR
1910.134, 30 CFR 11, EPA Order 1440.3 - Respiratory Protection
(July 24, 1981) and the recommendations of the American National
Standard Institute's (ANSI) Z88.2 "Practices for Respiratory
Protection " (Revised May 22, 1980), and the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), "Respirator Decision
Logic" (August 2, 1976).
These procedures have been adopted from the Region 9 Respiratory
Protection Program, July 1983.
Policy
Occupational exposure to airborne concentrations of toxic dusts,
fumes, sprays, mists, fogs, smokes, vapors, or gases shall be
controlled whenever possible by acceptable engineering control
measures. Such control measures usually include one or more of
the following: (1) isolating the operation by confinement or
enclosure, (2) utilizing local exhaust or general dilution
ventilation, or (3) substitution of a less toxic material.
However, when effective engineering controls are not feasible, or
while they are being implemented, appropriate respiratory
protective equipment shall be utilized.
As required in these regulations, EPA Region 10 shall be
responsible for the implementation and maintenance of a
respiratory protection program for Regional field personnel and
will provide respirators to Regional personnel when such
equipment is necessary to assure the employees' health and
safety. Respirators provided shall be approved by the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the Mine Safety
and Health Administration (NIOSH/MSHA) and appropriate for their
i ntended appl ication.
Regional personnel are required to use respiratory protection
equipment in accordance with the instructions and training
provided. Employees shall guard against damage to respiratory
protective equipment and shall immediately report any malfunction
of this equipment to their supervisor.
A respirator use policy has been developed which illustrates
situations in which Regional personnel may be required to wear
respirators (see Table I).
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TABLE I RESPIRATOR USE POLICY
EPA - REGION 10
ard Potential
Examples of Field Situations
Respiratory Protection Required
UM
Office visits
Routine inspections
Most SIP inspections
Most NSPS inspections
Most TSD, TSCA, CWA
and RCRA inspections
None required
Personal Protection Level - D
Interim Standard Operating
Safety Guides, (Revised
September 12, 1982)
Operational waste disposal
sites
Restricted Use pesticide
inspections
Most NESHAP inspections
Special SIP inspections
(i.e. - copper smelters,
etc.)
Air-purifying respirators may
be required.
Personal Protection Level - C
Note: A positive pressure
SCBA may be used in place of
an airpurifying respirators
if so desired.
JM
Uncontrolled hazardous
waste sites - initial entry
Toxic chemical spills
Oxygen deficient atmosphere
Chemical carcinogen inspec-
tions (i.e. - SIP coke oven
emission inspections or
NESHAP asbestos where the
airborne concentration of
asbestos is greater than
50 fibers per cc or vinyl
chloride inspections)
Other situations which are
classified IDLH or where
toxic chemicals are present
and the atmospheric con-
centration is unknown.
Positive pressure SCBA respir-
ator required:
Personal Protection Level B.
Personal Protection Level A
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-3-
Discussion
The intent of this EPA Region 10 policy document is to establish
written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which will ensure an
optimal level of respiratory protection for Regional personnel
during field activities. The SOPs contain all the information
necessary to maintain an effective respirator program which will
meet the Region's requirements for response to routine
inspections and environmental emergency sitations (such as
hazardous waste sites and chemical spills) where dangerous
atmospheres may exist. The SOPs are written as enforceable
policy for all persons directly involved in the respirator
program; including employees engaged in field activities, and
supervisory personnel responsible for overseeing the
implementation of this program.
These SOPs will cover the following topic areas:
" Administrative procedures for the implementation of the
Respiratory Protection Program;
* Guidelines for medical surveillance of respirator users, as
detailed in the Agency's Occupational Medical Monitoring Program
Guidelines;
Qualitative fit-testing;
" Guidance for selection of the approved respirators for protection
against potential air contaminants;
0 Use of respirators under special conditions;
0 Detailed instructions for training employees in the proper use
and limitations of respirators;
e Issuance of respirators;
0 Maintenance procedures including
- cleaning and disinfection
- drying
- inspection
- repair
- storage;
0 Procedures for evaluating the Respiratory Protection Program's
effectiveness.
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II. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITY
The Regional Administrator has overall responsibility for safety
and health in Region 10 including the Respiratory Protection
Program. The Regional Administrator, will also ensure to the
extent feasible, that the Respirator Program's SOPs are adhered
to by all Regional personnel.
The Regional Occupational Health and Safety Office, in
coordination with the Agency Occupational Health and Safety
Division (OHSD), will periodically (no less than annually) review
the Respiratory Protection Program to improve its effectiveness
and eliminate deficiencies.
A. Regional Occupational Health and Safety Office;
1. Approve purchase of all respirators and other personal
protection equipment.
2. Advise Regional personnel in selecting the appropriate
respirator.
3. Provide initial training (4-8 hours) for Regional personnel
in the proper use and limitations of respirators. Provide
on-going refresher (2-4 hours) training in the use of
respiratory equipment.
4. Provide guidance to Regional personnel in regard to matters
concerning respiratory protection.
5. Annually evaluate the effectiveness of the Program.
B. Division and Office Directors;
1. The Environmental Services Division (ESD) is responsible for:
a. Procurement of respirators, spare parts,
cleaning-sanitizing supplies, operationally ready
equipment and access to a cleaning, maintenance and
storage facility for ESD staff.
b. Performing routine monthly inspections of
self-contained breathing apparatus and other emergency
respirators (which have not been issued to individual
staff).
c. Providing expendable cleaning and maintenance supplies
and limited storage space at the Regional Office
facility for other Divisions or Operation Offices.
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2. Other Division or Operation Office Directors are responsible
for:
a. Procurement of air-purifying and emergency escape
respirators, as well as other personal protective
equipment required for their staffs.
b. Notifying ESD of the anticipated operational
requirements for expendable supplies, including
respirator canisters and cartridges. Note:
Self-contained Breathing Apparatus may be borrowed from
ESD on a limited use basis if the personnel are
qualified and certified to use this equipment.
C. Supervisors:
Supervisors are responsible, to the extent of their authority for
ensuring that:
1. Appropriate respiratory protective device are selected,
inspected, and maintained.
2. Employees wear the respiratory protective devices when they
are required.
3. Employees are properly trained.
4. Records are kept of employee training and of the inspection
and maintenance of these devices.
5. Written standard operating procedures governing the
selection and use of respiratory protective devices are
established for specific situations (i.e., Site Safety
Plans).
6. Employees required to use respiratory protective devices are
included in the Agency's occupational medical monitoring
program and they are medically approved for wearing the
devices.
D. Employees:
1. Maintain respirators issued for personal use in accordance
with the instructions and training received.
2. Wear the respiratory when necessary.
3. When entering a worksite for an inspection (for example, a
stationary source or hazardous waste site), employees shall
comply with all EPA health and safety requirements, as well
as, any applicable personal protective equipment
requirements specified by the site management.
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4. Employees shall comply with all applicable provisions of the
Program, as well as other health and safety directives from
the Agency (OHSD), the Regional Office, or a specific safety
and health standard.
5. If the respirator fails to provide proper protection, the
employee shall immediately go to an area which has
respirable air.
6. Employees shall report any malfunction of respiratory
protective equipment to his/her immediate supervisor.
7. Facial hair lying between the sealing surface of a
respirator facepiece and the wearer's skin will prevent a
good seal. Therefore, Regional personnel shall ensure that
they are clean shaven when required to wear a respirator and
that facial hair (moustache, sideburns or beard) does not
protrude under the sealing surface.
8. Participation in the Agency Occupational Medical Monitoring
Program is mandatory. Prior to assignment of tasks
requiring the use of respiratory protective equipment, a
medical doctor must determine and certify that the employee
is able to wear a respirator under "field" conditions.
It is the intent of EPA Region 10, through implementation of this
Respiratory Protection Program, to provide Regional personnel with the
best possible level of respiratory protection while performing routine
inspections and/or during environmental emergency situations where
dangerous atmospheres exist. The SOPs were developed to establish a
respiratory protection program which meets current Regional
requirements; however, the Occupational Health and Safety Manager will
ensure that the Program remains effective through continual
jxamination and modification to meet changing conditions.
IPA Region 10 shall provide all necessary respiratory protective
jquipment for the program. The equipment provided shall be NIOSH/MSHA
ipproved and shall be selected by the Occupational Health and Safety
lanager. Respiratory protective equipment will in no way be
lodified. Modification of a NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator,
nauthorized by the approving agencies, automatically voids the
espirator approval and may seriously jeopardize the health and safety
f the employee.
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I.MEDICAL MONITORING
It is the policy of the EPA Region 10, in compliance with 29 CFR
1910.134 and Section 3.7 of ANSI ZB8.2-1980, that no employee will be
assigned to those tasks requiring the use of respirators until that
employee has been found to be physically fit to wear the designated
respirator(s) under working conditions and not affected by
claustrophobia. A physician designated by EPA Region 10, will make
the determination as to whether or not the employee is fit to wear the
respirator and to designate under what working conditions that
employee may use the respirator. This medical determination, based
upon the Agency's Occupational Medical Monitoring Program, will be
made annually and additionally, at such time as may be deemed
necessary by the Occupational Health and Safety Manager if the
employee has been accidentally exposed to a hazardous atmosphere.
The initial medical examination, to be performed by the designated
physician, will serve two purposes. First, as mentioned above, this
physical will allow the physician to determine if there are any
physical, psychological, and/or biological conditions that would
affect the ability of the employee to work under hazardous conditions
in the designated respiratory equipment. Second, this initial
physical will serve as baseline data against which physiological
changes in each individual will be periodically assessed.
The frequency of these examinations will be determined by the
particular situation. The results of these tests will then be
compared with the original baseline study. It should be emphasized
that the periodic examinations may only reveal chronic long-term or
acute short-term effects of exposure. Also, it must be remembered
that the medical tests will identify exposures via all routes and not
just the inhalation pathway which is being addressed in this
Respiratory Protection Program.
The medical monitoring program will be reviewed annually as to its
effectiveness by the Occupational Health and Safety Manager and the
physician.
At the present time, the U.S. Public Health Service is under contract
to EPA Regin 10 to perform the baseline and annual employee medical
examinations required by the Agency Occupational Medical Monitoring
Program. The medical exam required by this Respiratory Protection
Program will be at the expense of EPA Region 10.
However, Regional employees may choose to go to their personal
physician for the medical evaluation, provided that:
A. The exam must comply with the Agency Occupational Medical
Monitoring Program Guidelines and must include the EPA
Occupational Medical Monitoring Questionnaire.
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B. The exam must comply ith ANSI standard Z 88.6
C. The physician must certify in writing that the employee is able
to wear respiratory protective equipment (air purifying and
atmosphere-supplying) in a field situation.
D. The cost will be at the employee's expense.
:V. GENERAL RESPIRATOR CLASSIFICATIONS
Basically, there are two major classes of respirators: (1)
air-purifying, and (2) atmosphere-supplying respirators.
A. Ai r-Pu ri fyi ng Re sp i ra tors
Air-purifying respirators are devices-which remove contaminants.
However, these devices do not supply oxygen, and therefore, must
never by used in oxygen^Heficient atmospheres (less than 19.5
percent Q£ by volume). Air-purifying devices generally fall
into three major subclasses:
Particulate-removing respirators that filter particulate
material from the ambient air before the air enters the
respirator facepiece.
Vapor and gas-removing respirators (chemical cartridges or
canisters) which trap gas and vapor molecules before they
enter the respirator facepiece.
Combination respirators that remove both particulates and
vapors and gases.
General Advantages, Disadvantages and Limitations of Air-purifying
Respirators:
1. Advantages:
a. Small physical size.
b. Relatively inexpensive.
c. Easily maintained.
d. Restricts movement least.
e. Multiple use and interchangeable cartridges and canisters are
available.
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2. Disadvantages:
a. Air-purifying respirators cannot be used in oxygen deficient
atmospheres (19.5% 03 v/v), in atmospheres immediately
dangerous to life and health (IDLH), or when the air
contaminant has poor warning properties.
b. Quarter and half-mask respirators do not provide protection
for the eyes or facial skin. Due to the small sorbent or
filter capacity, restrictions must be placed on maximum use
concentrations. In addition, the facepiece to face seal is
often times inconsistent which further restricts its use in
high concentrations or for contaminants with poor warning
properties.
c. Full facepiece respirators are more expensive than half or
quarter-mask configurations. While eye protection is
provided, use may be restricted by limited sorbent capacity.
3. Limitations:
a. Air-purifying respirators cannot be used in oxygen deficient
atmospheres; i.e., atmospheres containing less than 19.5
percent 62 by volume.
It should be noted that the normal atmospheric 62 content
is about 21 percent by volume at sea level. At
concentrations below 16% 02 v/v, the first physiologic
effects of 02 deficiency are noted: i.e., increased rate
and depth of breathing, increased heartbeat and impaired
coordination and judgment. Concentrations below 14% 02
are to be considered as IDLH. Concentrations below 10% 02
will cause unconsciousness, followed by death.
b. Air-purifying respirators offer protection only for the
specific contaminants for which they are tested and approved
by NIOSH^SHA.
c. Due to small sorbent or filter capacity, they afford
protection for limited contaminant concentrations. For
example, organic vapor cartridges are rated to a maximum use
concentration of 1,000 ppm, while canisters are rated to
5,000-20,000 ppm.
d. Chemical cartridge and canister elements cannot be used
beyond their rated shelf life date. Cartridges should be
stored in the manufacturers sealed plastic bags prior to
actual use.
e. Chemical cartridge and canister elements cannot be used for
organic vapors with poor warning properties, extremely toxic
gases and vapors, or for compounds which exhibit rapid
break-through.
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B. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
Atmosphere-supplying respirators are devices which supply air
from a source independent of the surrounding atmosphere. These
devices are classified according to: (1) the method of air
supply, and (2) the method of air supply regulation.
1. Self-contained breathing apparatus (XBA).
A feature common to all SCBA's, is that the air or oxygen
supply is an integral part of the respirator. SCBA's are
available in two configurations and are classified as
"closed-circuit" or "open-circuit" devices.
a. Closed- Circuit
Closed-circuit SCBA's are rebreathing devices. Exhaled air
is rebreathed after excess carbon dioxide has been removed
and the oxygen content has been restored via a compressed or
liquid oxygen source, or from an oxygen generated solid.
This type of SCBA was designed primarily for long duration
use (1-4 hours) in oxygen-deficient atmospheres such as
might be encountered in mine rescue work.
However, while these devices are ideal for providing
respiratory protection in oxygen deficient atmospheres;
there are limitations that restrict their use. Upon
inhalation, a negative pressure is created in the
facepiece. This results in potential inward facepiece
leakage. Closed-circuit SCBA's will not be used by Region
10 staff.
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b. Open-Circuit
Open-circuit SCBA's are not recirculating devices, instead
exhaled air is exhausted to the atmosphere. The air supply
is normally a cylinder of high pressure (about 2000-2216
psig) compressed air. Compressed air is supplied to a
two-stage regulator which reduces the air pressure for
delivery to the facepiece. The regulator also serves as a
flow regulator by providing air to the facepiece on demand.
A full facepiece is normally used and is connected to the
regulator via a flexible corrugated breathing tube. The
service life is short, usually 30 minutes or less, and is
dependent on the user's breathing rate. WARNING -
COMPRESSED OXYGEN SHALL NEVER BE USED IN TDTVTCE DESIGNED
FOR CONFESSED AIR, MINUTE AMOUNTS OF OIL OR OTHER FOREIGN
MATTER IN THE DEVICE COMPONENTS CAN CAUSE AN EXPLOSION.
Respirator Fit Testing
Testing will be performed in accordance with OSHA29CFR 1910.1025,
Appendix D,. Qualitative Fit Test Procedures for the OSHA Lead
Standard. Several manufactureres have been identified who produce
approved respiratory protective equipment. Although each manufacturer
designs his facepieces to fit as broad a section of the working
population as possible, no single respirator marketed will fit
everyone: i.e., each make and model respirator will have a slightly
different fit. Conditions which will affect a good respirator fit
include: a growth of facial hair (stubble, beard, sideburns, or
moustache) lying under the facepiece, temple bars on glasses, a skull
cap that projects under the facepiece, facial scars and injuries, and
the presence or absence of dentures. Therefore, in order for a
respirator to provide the protection it was designed for, the
respirator facepiece must fit the face of the wearer properly.
Furthermore, OSHA regulations provide that each employee who wears a
respirator shall have it properly fitted, test the face to facepiece
seal, and wear it in a test atmosphere. The Occupational Health and
Safety Manager will provide respirator fit testing, annually. See
Appendix A for specific respirator fit testing procedures.
following policies will be followed by Regional personnel in the
ting, issuance and use of respirators:
A. Participation in the Agency Occupational Medical Monitoring
Program is mandatory.
B. Before fit-testing is attempted, the employee must have been
found medically qualified to wear respiratory protective
equipment.
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C. Prior to the use of any negative pressure air-purifying
respirator, the employee must have passed a fit test.
D. If it is determined that an employee cannot obtain a
satisfactory facepiece to face seal because of facial
characteristics, the employee will not under any
circumstances, use and/or enter an atmosphere that would
require the use of a respirator.
E. Facial hair which projects under the facepiece seal will not
be allowed.
F. EPA Region 10 will provide employees who wear glasses with
special corrected lenses which are to be used with full
facepiece respirators (air-purifying and SCBA). The special
lenses will be requisitioned for each employee; however, it
is the employee's responsibility to furnish an accurate lens
prescription. The prescription should be obtained from the
employee's private optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Contact lenses shall not be worn while wearing any type of
respiratory protective device. Contaminants which penetrate
a full facepiece respirator may get into the eyes and cause
severe discomfort because of the contact lenses. Chemicals
inadvertently splashed into the eyes while wearing a
half-mask may cause severe ocular damage as the chemical
becomes trapped between the contact lens and the surface of
the eye.
G. Because of relatively poor sealing characteristics,
quarter-mask respirators shall not be used by Regional
personnel.
H. While fit testing of positive-pressure SCBA's is not
required, according to ANSI ZB8.2-1980, an inadequate
facepiece to face seal will increase the use of air via
leakage and accordingly reduce the effective breathing
time. Combination SCBA's which have a selectable
demand/pressure-demand mode lever, must be fit tested. It
should be reemphasized that a demand type SCBA is no more
effective than an air-purifying device, because negative
pressure is created in the facepiece during inhalation.
Selectable demand/pressure-demand respirators are approved
only for the pressure demand mode.
I. Regional personnel may only use the specific make(s) and
model(s) of half-mask and full facepiece respirators for
which a satisfactory fit has been obtained. Under no
circumstances shall a person be allowed to use any make or
model respirator not previously fit tested and presently
approved for the employees use by the Occupational Health
and Safety Manager.
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J. Nose cups to prevent fogging or other anti-fogging devices
will be provided by the EPA Region 10 for full facepiece
respirators. These devices must be worn by employees while
performing field work due to potential hazards that may
occur because of poor visibility.
RESPIRATOR SELECTION
The selection of approved respiratory protective equipment is made by
the individual, approved by the Occupational Health and Safety Manager
and is based upon the following considerations:
- The nature of the hazardous operation or process.
- The type of respiratory hazard (i.e., oxygen deficiency or
contaminated atmosphere).
- The location of the hazardous area in relation to the nearest
area having respirable air.
- The period of time respiratory protection will be needed.
- The employee's activities in the hazardous area.
- The physical characteristics, functional capabilities, protection
factors and limitations of the respiratory protective equipment.
Table 2 is a Decision Logic Table for Respiratory Protective Device
Selection. Table 3 is a Decision Logic Table for Respiratory
Protective Device Limitations.
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TYPO of
Itlf-Contilntd lr«athln| *pp«r«tut
Air Purifying, full
Ultli appropriate filter
tilth •pproprltta chemical eanlttar
With appropriate chcalcal canlitar and Miter
Air PurKvlnft. hiir-«uiik
Vlth approprlata chealcat cartridge
With appropriate Illttr
Ulth approprlata chealcal cartridge and (lltar
SeK-Koacue, Mouthpiece (aicapa only)
Ur-llno
Mr-line ebrailve-blaatlng
Combination Air-Una with auxiliary aalf-contalnad
air aupply or an alr-atoraga rtcalvar with
atari*
•expiratory
Onygan
Petitioner
Vxi
Ko
Ko
Ko
No
No
No
No
No
No
Vai
Protective Device Selection Guide
llaiard
Cat and Vapor
IPUI*
Vat
No
Yea
No
No
No
No
Vex
Ho
No
Vex
ContinlnanH
HIDIM**
No
No
No
No
Vet
No
Hi
Ho
Yot
Ho
No
particular
IDIJI*
Vtx
No
Ko
Ho
Ho
No
Vea
Ho
No
Vox
o Contaminant^
HIDLII** ^
Ho
Ho
Ho
Ho
Vex
Vex
Ho
No
Vex
Vea
Ho
I
Comb liiut lull Can, Vapor, and
Piirtlculutu CnnliiMliiHiitx
IDIJI*
V.,
No
Ho
Vut
Ho
Ho
Yc-i
Ho
No
Vut
HIDIJI**
Ho
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t_
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-16-
VII. RESPIRATOR USE UNDER SPECIAL CONDITIONS
The following special procedures shall be followed by all Regional
personnel involved in hazardous waste site (HWS) investigations and
environmental spill (ES) responses. The respirator use procedures
presented herein have been adapted from the Agency's Occupational
Health and Safety Manual (Chapter 9, Draft 5-15-84).
A. Use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
SCBA's must be worn on-site when:
1. Containers of unknown or known hazardous materials are being
opened.
2. When in confined spaces where hazardous materials are
present such as abandoned waste chemical storage buildings
or storm drains, drainage ditches, manholes, etc., which
have received spilled chemicals.
3. When the Project Leader or other responsible person,
determines that the airborne concentration of hazardous
materials is greater than 10 times the permissible exposure
level (PEL) or where the ambient oxygen content is less than
19.54.
B. Use of Air-Purify ing Respirators
Air-purfying respirators, which are easier to use but provide less
protection that SCBA's, shall be worn on-site only when:
1. Ambient concentration of hazardous materials are not greater
than 10 times the PEL, have good warning properties, and
ambient oxygen levels are at least 19.5%.
2. The Project Leader or other responsible person, determines
that air-purifying respirators are required as a precaution
in the event of generation of low ambient levels of toxic
substances due to sampling, handling, decontamination, or
other operations.
3. Extended periods of on-site use, which would exhaust the
capacity of the filter/sorbent, are not required.
4. Emergency SCBA escape respirators are carried by or located
in the immediate area of air-purifying respirator users.
Escape respirators must be donned immediately upon
experiencing any warning property such as difficulty
breathing, dizziness, strong taste or smell, or other
adverse reaction. User must then leave the site.
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-17-
NOTE: Once activated, the self-rescue SCBA escape respirator
(Air Capsule) provides a 5-minute air supply. Accordingly, do
not venture into an area from which the escape requires more than
5-minute s.
C. Carrying Respirators
Air-purifying and/or emergency escape SCBA respirators must
be carried on-site when the Project Leader or other
responsible person determines that, although the risk is
very low, hazardous materials may become present in the air
during operations. The respirators must be donned
immediately upon experiencing any of the warning properties
previously mentioned.
NOTE: The user must leave the site immediately after donning an
escape respirator, or if the warning properties persist after
donning a cartridge respirator.
D. Personnel Requirements.
1. Buddy System - A minimum of two employees, in constant
communication with each other, are required to perform
any work in a contaminated area (toxic atmosphere or
oxygen deficiency). 1
2. In addition, at least one stand-by person, equipped
with a positive pressure SCBA and proper rescue
equipment, shall be present in the nearest safe area
for emergency rescue of personnel wearing respirators
in a dangerous atmosphere. 2
NOTE 1: Radio contact must be maintained when visual
contact cannot be maintained.
NOTE 2: The stand-by person must be physically capable of
removing an injured person by carrying or dragging the
person to a safe, noncontaminated area.
'III. EMPLOYEE TRAINING
Proper use of respiratory protection equipment can only be assured
by carefully training Regional employees in the selection, use, and
maintenance of the provided equipment. This requirement can only be
satisfied by the establishment and implementation of a training pro-
gram.
Respiratory protection training requirements are designed to be very
thorough and complete because of the possibility of Regional
employees entering highly toxic atmospheres in the course of their
emergency response and hazardous waste site activities. Training
procedures are divided into three phases: initial respiratory
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-18-
protectipn training instruction; annual refresher training sessions;
and special field-oriented training exercises. The following is an
explanation of each phase of the training procedures:
A. Initial Respiratory Protection Training Instruction
All Regional personnel who are required to use respiratory protective
equipment, as soon as practicable upon entry into the program, will
receive training which will ensure the proper and safe use of the
equipment. The initial training, such as EPA/ERT Course 165.2, will
present intensive and in-depth instruction over a three-to-five-day
period. This course is designed for personnel involved in hazardous
waste or emergency spill work and will include the following topic
areas:
EPA Region 10 Respiratory Protection Program policy.
Regulations and laws concerning respirator use.
Reasons for the need of respiratory protection.
Basic respiratory protection practices and equipment.
Nature, extent, and effects of respiratory hazards to which
Regional personnel may be exposed.
A general explanation of all available respiratory protection
equipment and devices, and their uses and limitations.
Explanation of why the particular type of respirators have been
selected.
Explanation of the operation, and capabilities and limitations of
the selected respiratory equipment in relation to environmental
emergency response situations and hazardous waste site
investigations.
Opportunity for each employee to handle the selected respirator,
learn how to don and wear it properly, check its
respirator-to-face seal (fit test), wear it in a safe atmosphere,
and wear it in a test atmosphere of isoamyl acetate and irritant
smoke.
Explanation of how to perform proper maintenance and storage of
the selected respirators.
Classroom and field instruction in how to recognize and cope with
emergency respiratory protection requirements during field
activities.
Discussion of the required continuing field-level training
sessions.
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-19-
To allow new entries and other Region 10 employees who will not be as
actively involved in hazardous waste/emergency spill work into the
program to use EPA-provided respiratory equipment the following
training will be provided by the Regional Occupational Health and
Safety Manager:
1. Each new member will receive a minimum of 6 hours of instruction
on specific EPA-provided respiratory protection equipment. Such
training will be scheduled with the Occupational Health and
Safety Office by the employee's supervisor.
2. Hands-on experience with the provided respiratory protection
equipment.
3. Proper fit testing for air-purifying respirators.
4. Proper check-out and use of atmosphere supplying respirators, if
needed by the employee.
he supervisors and managers of employees who wear respirators should also
ake this training.
B. Annual Refresher Training Sessions
Regional employees who are required to use the provided
respiratory equipment shall receive annual
respiratory-protection-training refresher sessions. These
sessions will be conducted by the Regional Occupational Health
and Safety Office. The sessions will provide employees with a
constant reinforcement of and updates to the material presented
at the initial respiratory-protection-training course.
C. Special Field-Oriented Training Execerises
A specially designed "hands-on" training course(s) will be
provided to employees through the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency's Environmental Response Team (ERT). This course,
Personnel Protection and Safety (165.2), is designed to provide
personnel with the opportunity to train under simulated field
conditions. The course(s), as designed, will provide hands-on
experience in the concepts, methods, and procedures for
responding to incidents involving hazardous substances either
singly or in multi-media situations. The course(s) will involve
the utilization of the respiratory protective equipment and will
provide the employee with an expanded familiarity and experience
with the use and reliance of his respiratory protective equipment
under response conditions. The course(s) will be offered
periodically by ERT and is required initially for members of the
Region 10 Field Hazardous Waste Investigation Team. In addition,
special field exercises will be held at least once every two
months for the Region 10 Field Hazardous Waste Investigation
Team. This training will simulate, as much as possible, actual
on-site field conditions using respirators, instrumentation and
other equipment used by Region 10. Actual on-site inspections/
investigations using Level C or higher levels of protection may
be counted as a special field exercise.
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IX. ISSUANCE OF RESPIRATORS
It is the policy of EPA Region 10, to assign each employee with a
personal complement of respiratory protective equipment. This
practice is not only needed from a personal hygiene and proper fit
point of view, but also to insure that the individual's respiratory
protective equipment will receive proper maintenance and care. When
an individual is assigned respiratory protective equipment which he or
she will have to depend on while working in a contaminated atmosphere,
the degree of maintenance, care, and equipment readiness is more
easily stressed. Therefore, the following respiratory protective
equipment will be procured by each Division or Office Director, on an
exclusive use basis, for personnel requiring respiratory protection:
1. Full-facepiece mask, air-purifying, cartridge/canister
respirator; NOTE: Special corrective lenses will be procured, if
required (after proper fit testing) along with nose cups for each
facepiece purchased.
The Robertshaw Model 5000 Air Capsule (5-minute SCBA escape hood) and
MSA Model 401 SCBA unit (a positive pressure full-facepiece SCBA with
a 30-minute air supply and a lightweight composite air cylinder) will
not be assigned on an individul basis because it is unlikely that all
personnel will be required to wear these units at one time. MSA Model
401s, as well as a selection of NIOSH/MSHA approved particulate, gas
and vapor, combination, and high-efficiency cartridges and canisters
are available from ESD.
Respiratory protective equipment which is assigned to an individual
for his or her exclusive use, shall be permanently marked as that
individual's personal equipment. Marking the equipment should be done
with adhesive tape (with the user's name wn'tten on it).
Records of all equipment issued to each employee will be maintained by
the employee's Supervisor. These records will include the date of
initial issuance, the date(s) of reissue, and listing of all repairs.
(. CLEANING. INSPECTION. MAINTENANCE, AND STORAGE
It is the responsibility of the employee to ensure that each piece of
respiratory apparatus is cleaned and sanitized after each use;
carefully inspected for defects before and after each use; repaired
when needed by a factory certified individual; and stored properly so
each respirator will retain its original shape and effectiveness.
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CLEANING AND SANITATION
Each respirator shall be cleaned and sanitized after each use. This
will be done by the person to whom it has been issued only after the
individual has received thorough training in the proper procedure.
The cleaning and sanitizing of the units will be accomplished in the
following manner:
1. The apparatus (air-purifying and SCBA's) is to be disassembled
into its major components as described in the manufacturer's
schematic display which accompanies the unit when purchased.
(This step also affords the opportunity to thoroughly inspect,
externally, each of the components for any defects, excessive
wear and tear, etc.). Destroy and discard any previously used
filters, canisters, or cartridges.
Remember, no maintenance can be performed on the MSA Model 401
regulator, audi-lever, or cylinder valve without proper MSA
certification.
2. Thoroughly wash the facepiece and mask components in a cleaning
and sanitizing solution made up by adding one premeasured
cleaner-sanitizer packet to one gallon of warm water
(120-140°F). The components should be scrubbed with a sponge
or soft brush to remove dust, dirt or other contaminants.
Respirator cleaning materials are availble from ESD or the
Manchester Laboratory. The respirator should be immersed in this
solution for at least two minutes.
3. Thoroughly rinse all component pieces in warm water. (This step
is important since residuals of the cleaning-sanitizing solution
can cause dermatitis in some individuals).
4.
use.
Dry all components thoroughly; inspect them again for any
defects; reassemble the units; and store properly until the next
iitional information on this subject can be found in the 165.2 Personnel
tection and Safety course manual; Gear Section, Part 2, Appendix II -
e and Cleaning of Respirators.
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-22-
INSPECTION FOR DEFECTS
The inspection of the respirator is probably the most important step
in the respirator maintenance program. A conscientious inspection of
the unit will identify damaged or malfunctioning components before use
in a hazardous atmosphere. Therefore, all respiratory equipment shall
be inspected thoroughly before the apparatus is used and dun'ng and
after the cleaning process. The employee and the employee's
supervisor are jointly responsible for ensuring periodic inspections
are performed on the respirators. These procedures are based upon
inspection prior to use, inspection dun'ng and after cleaning, and
inspection based on the type of apparatus (i.e., SCBA or air
pun'fy ing).
The external inspection of the respirators will include a check for
tightness of connections; a check on the condition of the respirator
inlet and outlet coverings, a head harness and assembly, valves, and
connecting tubes; the end-of-service life indicators and shelf-life
dates on all filters, canisters, and cartridges; and a thorough check
of the regulators, alarms, and other warning systems. All rubber and
elastomeric parts of the respirator will be checked for pliability,
proper sealing, and any sign of deterioration. Each air cylinder will
be checked to insure its integrity and its readiness for use.
Additional information on SCBA inspection procedures can be found in
the 165.2 Personnel Protection and Safety course manual: Clear
Section, Part 3, Appendix I - DOT Specification Cylinders and Appendix
II - SCBA Checkout Procedures.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR
Replacement of parts and repair of all respiratory protective
equipment will be performed only by persons properly trained and
certified by the manufacturer. Reducing or admission valves and
regulators will be returned to the manufacturer or to a trained and
certified technician for repair or adjustment. The Regional
Occupational Safety and Health Manager has received MSA Level II
training and can repair the low pressure side of the regulators. IT
IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN TO SUBSTITUTE ANY PART OF THE RESPIRATOR
ASSEMBLY WITH ANOTHER BRAND OR TYPE OF RESPIRATOR PART. TO DO SO WILL
INVALIDATE THE APPROVAL OF THE DEVICE AND COULD SIGNIFICANTLY
COMPROMISE THE HEALTH/LIFE OF THE USER.
The Supervisor will maintain an up-to-date record of all repairs,
adjustments, and replacement of parts. The record should indicate the
date, respirator make and model, part number, and the technician's
name.
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STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT
All respiratory protective equipment will be stored in such a way as
to protect it against dust, sunlight, excessive heat, extreme cold,
excessive moisture, damaging chemicals, and mechanical damage.
Respirators will be stored individually, not stacked one upon the
other or in cramped spaces, to prevent distortion of rubber or other
elastomeric parts. Respirators should be stored in plastic bags and
readily identifiable as to the individual to whom it has been issued.
As OSHA guidelines suggest, respirators will be stored in their
original cartons whenever possible.
EVALUATION OF RESPIRATOR PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS
It is the policy of EPA Region 10 in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134
and ANSI Z88.2-1980, to regularly audit and evaluate the respiratory
program's effectiveness in order to insure that all persons involved
are being provide with the best respiratory protection possible. As
further assurance of this degree of protection, the user will be
monitored periodically. The respiratory program will be evaluated
annually by the Occupational Health and Safety Manager; if necessary,
the written operating procedures will be modified and corrective
actions will be taken to eliminate defects in the program, noting
target dates for implementation.
The Occupational Health and Safety Manager will perform unannounced
inspections of respirator use to insure that the following procedures
are adhered to: the proper types of respirators are being selected
for the job; individuals who are required to wear respirators have
received proper training; respirators are inspected and maintained
properly; respirator storage is satisfactory; monitoring for
respiratory hazards is continuous when air-purifying respirators are
used; the respirators in use are in good operating condition; and
medical and biochemical surveillance of the respirator user is being
carried out. Further, the Occupational Health and Safety Manager
shall periodically consult with respirator users about their
acceptance of their respirators as they relate to comfort,
interference with vision and communications, restriction of movement,
resistence to breathing, interference with job performance, and their
general confidence in their respirators effective protection. This
information will be documented and analyzed so as to insure the
respirator user's continued ability to wear the respirator issued to
him/her.
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Page 24
5 Appendix D
APPENDIX A
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
ARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS
.PPENOIX D TO SECTION 1910.1025—
QUALITATIVE FIT TEST PROTOCOLS
.ppendix specifies the only allowable qualitative fit
tocols permissible for compliance with paragraph
11. If the test subject correctly identifies the jar con-
taining the odor test solution he may proceed to respirator
selection and fit testing.
B. Respirator selection.
1. The test subject shall be allowed to select the most
comfortable respirator from a large array of various sizes
and manufacturers that includes at least three sizes of elas-
tomeric half facepieces and units of at least two manufactur-
lyl Acetate Protocol
or threshold screening.
•ee 1-liter glass jars with metal lids (e.g. Mason or
i) are required.
jr-free water (e.g. distilled or spring water) at ap-
tely 25°C shall be used for the solutions.
• isoamyl acetate (IAA) (also known as isopentyl ace-
ick solution is prepared by adding 1 cc of pure IAA
• of odor free water in a 1-liter jar and shaking for 30
The solution shall be prepared new at least weekly.
i screening test shall be conducted in a room sepa-
m the room used for actual fit testing. The two
nail be well ventilated but may not be connected to
3 recirculating ventilation system.
5 odor test solution is prepared in a second jar by
.4 cc of the stock solution into 500 cc of odor free
sing a clean dropper or pipette. Shake for 30 seconds
w to stand for two to three minutes so that the IAA
ration above the liquid may reach equilibrium. This
may be used for only one day.
est blank is prepared in a third jar by adding 500 cc
free water.
» odor test and test blank jars shall be labelled 1 and
• identification. If the labels are put on the lids they
periodically dried off and switched to avoid people
; the same jar always has the IAA.
2 following instructions shall be typed on a card and
n the table in front of the two test jars (i.e. 1 and 2);
purpose of this test is to determine if you can smell
oil at a low concentration. The two bottles in front of
:am water. One of these bottles-also contains a small
of banana oil. Be sure the covers are on tight, then
ach bottle for two seconds. Unscrew the lid of each
ine at a time, and sniff at the mouth of the bottle.
to the test conductor which bottle contains banana
j mixtures used in the IAA odor detection test shall
ared in an area separate from where the test is per-
in order to prevent olfactory fatique in the subject.
the test subject is unable to correctly identify the
.aining the odor test solution, the IAA QLFT may
ised.
2. The selection process shall be conducted in a room sep-
arate from the fit-test chamber to prevent odor fatigue.
Prior to the selection process, the test subject shall be
shown how to put on a respirator, how it should be posi-
tioned on the face, how to set strap tension and how to as-
sess a "comfortable" respirator. A mirror shall be available
to assist the subject in evaluating the fit and positioning of
the respirator. This may not constitute his formal training
on respirator use, only a review.
3. The test subject should understand that he is being
asked to select the respirator which provides the most com-
fortable fit for him. Each respirator represents a different
size and shape and, if fit properly, will provide adequate
protection.
4. The test subject holds each facepiece up to his face and
eliminates those which are obviously not giving a comfort-
able fit. Normally, selection will begin with a half-mask and
if a fit cannot be found here, the subject will be asked to go
to the full facepiece respirators. (A small percentage of
users will not be able to wear any half-mask.)
5. The more comfortable facepices are recorded; the most
comfortable mask is donned and ivorn at least five minutes
to assess comfort. Assistance in assessing comfort can be
given by discussing the points in #6 below. If the test sub-
ject is not familiar with using a particular respirator, he
shall be directed to don the mask several times and to adjust
the straps each time, so that he becomes adept at setting
proper tension on the straps.
6. Assessment of comfort shall include reviewing the fol-
lowing points with the test subject:
Chin properly placed.
Positioning of mask on nose.
Strap tension.
Fit across nose bridge.
Room for safety glasses.
Distance from nose to chin.
Room to talk.
Tendency to slip.
Cheeks filled out.
Self-observation in mirror.
Adequate time for assessment.
7. The test subject shall conduct the conventional nega-
tive and positive-pressure fit checks (e.g. see ANSI
Z88.2-1980). Before conducting the negative- nr positive-
pressure checks, the subject shall he told In "spat" his mask
by rapidly moving the -head side-to-sirie and up and down.
taking a few deep breaths.
8. The test subject is now ready fnr fit testine.
25 Appendix D
790.0.54
Change .'!'
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Page 25
UPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
1910.1025 Appendix D
STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS
After passing the fit test, the test subject shall be ques-
fl again regarding the comfort of the respirator. If it
ecome uncomfortable, another model of respirator shall
ied.
The employee shall be given the opportunity to select
*eri*iU facepiece anil be relestod if during the first two
s of on-the-job wear the chosen facepiece becomes
.•eptably uncomfortable.
Fit test.
The fit test chamber shall be substantially similar to a
55 gallon drum liner suspended inverted over a 2 foot
eter frame, so that the top of chamber is about 6 inches
e the test subject's head. The inside top center of the
ber shall have a small hook attached.
Each respirator used for the fitting and fit testing shall
Dipped with organic vapor cartridges or offer protec-
against organic vapors. The cartridges or masks shall
.anged at least weekly.
After selecting, donning, and properly adjusting a res-
;>r himself, the test subject shall wear it to the fit
ig room. This room shall be separate from the room
for odor threshold screening and respirator selection,
^hall be well ventilated, as by an exhaust fan or lab
to prevent general room contamination.
A copy of the following test exercises and rainbow (oi-
ly effective) passage shall be taped to the inside of the
chamber:
Eftrrixex
formal breathing.
Deep breathing. Be certain breaths are iltrp and
Turning head from side-to-side. Be certain movement
nplele. Alert the test subject not to bump the respira-
•i the shoulders. Have the test subject inhale when his
is ut either side.
Nodding head up-and-down. Be certain motions are
lete and made about every second. Alert the test sub-
lot bump the respirator on the chest. Have the test-
ct inhale when his head is in the fully up position.
Talking. Talk aloud and slowly for several minutes. The
ang paragraph is called the Rainbow Passage. Reading
1 result in a wide range of facial movements, and thus
.eful to satisfy this requirement. Alternative passages
\ serve the same purpose may also be used.
buir Puxxiige
ten the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act
prism anil form a rainbow. The rainbow is a divison of
• light into many beautiful colors. These take the shape
ong round arch, with its path high above, and its two
apparently beyond the horizon. There is. according tc.
d, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People look, but no
•ver finds it. When a man looks for something beyond
., his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the
.f tho rainbow.
vi. Normal breathing.
5. Each test subject shall wear his respirator for at least
10 minutes before starting the fit test.
6. Upon entering the test chamber, the test subject shall
be given a U inch by 5 inch piece of paper towel or other po-
rous absorbent single ply material, folded in half and wetted
with three-quarters of one cc of pure IAA. The test subject
shall hang the wet towel on the hook at the top of the
chamber.
7. Allow two minutes for the IAA test concentration to be
reached before starting the fit-test exercises. This would be
an appropriate time to talk with the- test subject, to explain
the fit test, the importance of his cooperation, the purpose
for the head exercises, or to demonstrate some of the
exercises.
8. Each exercise described in No. 4 above shall be per-
formed for at least one minute.
9. If at any time during the test, the subject detects the
banana-like odor of IAA, he shall quickly exit from the test
chamber and leave the test area to avoid olfactory fatigue.
10. Upon returning to the selection room, the subject
shall remove the respirator, repeat the odor sensitivity test,
select and put on another respirator, return to the test
chamber, etc. The process continues until a respirator that
fits well has been found. Should the odor sensitivity test be
failed, the subject shall wait about 5 minutes before retest-
ing. Odor sensitivity will usually have returned by this
time.
••*!&&
11. If a person cannot be fitted with the selection of half-^
mask respirators, include full facepiece models in the selec-s^,
tion process. When u respirator is found that passes the ""
test, its efficiency shall be demonstrated for the subject by
having him break the face seal and take a breath before
exiling the chamber.
12. When the test subject leaves the chamber he shall re-
move the saturated towel, returning it to the test conduct-
or. To keep the area from becoming contaminated, the used
towels shall be kept in a self-sealing bag. There is no signifi-
cant IAA concentration buildup in the test chamber from
subsequent tests. ... ^«
••U'. .TrT*2
l.'l. Persons who have successfully passed this fit test I
be assigned the use of the tested respirator in atmospheres
with up to 10 times the PEL of airborne lead. In other "'
words this IAA protocol may be used to assign a protection .'
factor no higher than 10.
II. Saccharin Solution Aerosol Protocol.
A. Taste threshold screening.
1. Threshold screening as well as fit testing employees
shall use an enclosure about the head and shoulders that is
approximately 12 inches in diameter by 14 inches tall with at
least the front portion clear and that allows free movement
of the head when a- respirator is worn. An enclosure ,-uo-
stantially similar to the 3M hood assembly of oar' * ^"T '••!
and FT 15 combined is adequate.
790.0.55
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Page 26
Appendix D
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
*DS AND INTERPRETATIONS
eat enclosure shall have a three-quarter inch hole in
e test subject's nose and mouth area to accommo-
ibulizer nozzle.
ntire screening and testing procedure shall be ex-
the test subject prior to the conduct of the screen-
est subject shall don the test enclosure. For the
screening test, he shall breathe through his open
i tongue extended.
; a DeVUbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Neb-
test conductor shall spray the threshold check so-
) the enclosure. This nebulizer shall be clearly
distinguish it from the fit test solution nebulizer or
hreshold check solution consists of 0.83 grams of
:charin, USP in water. It can be prepared by put-
the test solution (see C6 below) in 100 cc of water.
oduce the aerosol the nebulizer bulb is firmly
o that it collapses completely then released and si-
lly expand.
queezes are repeated rapidly and then the test sub-
el whether the saccharin can be tasted.
first response is negative, ten more squeezes are
pidly and the test subject is again asked whether
in is tasted.
s second response is negative ten more squeezes
id rapidly and the test subject is again asked
9 saccharin is tasted.
test conductor will take note of the number of
quired to elicit a taste response.
; saccharin is not tasted after 30 squeezes (Step 9),
iject may not-perform the saccharin fit test.
aste response is elicited, the test subject shall be
t« note of the taste for reference in the fit test.
•ct use of the nebulizer means that approximately
i is used at a time in the nebulizer body.
nebulizer shall be~ thoroughly rinsed in water,
and refilled at least each morning and afternoon
very four hours.
otor Mlextlon.
rs shall be selected as described in section IB
pt that each respirator shall be equipped with a
Iter cartridge.
test uses the same enclosure described in U1 and
jst subject shall wear his respirator for al least 10
ore starting the fit teat.
3. The test subject shall don the enclosure while wearing
the respirator selected in section A above. This respirator
shall be properly adjusted and equipped with a particular fil-
ter cartridge.
4. The test subject may not eat. drink (except plain water),
or chew gum for 15 minutes before the test.
3. A second DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication
Nebulizer is used to spray the fit test solution into the en-
closure. This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish
it from the screening test solution nebulizer or equivalent.
4. The fit test solution is prepared by adding 83 grams of
sodium saccharin to 100 cc of warm •water.
7. As before, the test subject shall breathe through the
open mouth with tongue extended.
I. The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in the front of the
enclosure and the fit test solution is sprayed into the en-
closure using the same technique as for the taste threshold
screening and the same number of squeezes required to elicit
a taste response in the screening. (See B 10 above).
1. After generation of the aerosol the test subject shall be
instructed to perform the following exercises for one minute
each.
I. Normal breathing.
II. Deep breathing. Be certain breaths are deep and regu-
lar.
III. Turning head from side-to-side. Be certain movement is
complete. Alert the test subject not to bump the respirator
on the shoulders. Have the test subject inhale when his head
is at either side.
Iw. Nodding head up-and-down. Be certain motions are
complete. Alert the test subject not to bump the respirator
on the chest. Have the test subject inhale when his head in
the fully up position.
v. Talking. Talk aloud and slowly for several minutes. The
following paragraph is called the Rainbow Passage. Reading
it will result in a wide range of facial movements, and thus be
useful to satisfy this requirement. Alternative passages
which serve the same purpose may also be used.
Rainbow Passagt
When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air. they act like
a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of
white light into many beautiful colors Those lake the shnpe
of a long round arch, with its path hi«h above, and its two
ends apparently beyond the horizon. There is. according to
legend, o boiling pot of (fold at onr end. People look, but no
one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond his
reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the
end of the rainbow.
10. Every 30 seconds. tht> aerosol concentration shall be
replenished using one-half the number of squeeze as initially
(C8I.
11. The test subject shall so indicate to tht> lest conductor
ipcndix I)
790.0.56
Changr :!-'
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Page 27
?ATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
1910.1025 Appendix D
ty time during the fit test the taste of saccharin it de
f the saccharin is detected the fit is deemed unsatisfac-
id a different respirator shall be tried.
Successful completion of the test protocol shall allow
i of the tested respirator in contaminated atmospheres
0 times the PEL. In other words this protocol may be
isign protection factors no higher than ten.
rrltant Fum« Protocol
tspirator selection.
irators shall be selected as described in section IB
except that each respirator shall be equipped with
ficiency cartridges.
r t«st.
ie test subject shall be allowed to smell a weak concen-
of the irritant smoke to familiarize him with its
.eristic odor.
ie test subject shall properly don the respirator se-
is above, and wear it for at least 10 minutes before
jthe fit test.
« test conductor shall review this protocol with the
>ject before testing.
ie test subject shall perform the conventional positive
e and negative pressure fit checks. Failure of either
hall be cause to select an alternate respirator.
eak both ends of a ventilation smoko tube containing
oxychloride, such as the MSA part No. 5645. or
ent. Attach a short length of tubing to one end of the
;ube. Attach the other end of the smoke tube to a low
e air pump set to deliver 200 milliliters per minute.
(vise the test subject that the smoke can be irritating
yes and instruct him to keep his eyes closed while the
erformed.
e test conductor shall direct the stream of irritant
from the tube towards the faceseal area of the test
He shall begin at least 12 inches from the facepiece
STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS
and gradually move to within one inch, moving around the
whole perimeter of the mask.
I. The following exercises shall be performed while the
respirator seal is being challenged by the smoke. Each shall
be performed for one minute.
I. Normal breathing.
II. Deep breathing. Be certain breaths are deep and regu-
lar.
III. Turning head from side-to-side. Be certain movement is
complete. Alert the test subject not to bump the respirator
on the shoulders. Have test subject inhale when his head is at
either side.
Iw. Nodding head up-and-down. Be certain motions are
complete. Alert the test subject not to bump the respirator
on the chest. Have the test subject inhale when his head is in
the fully up position.
v. Talking—slowly and distinctly, count backwards from
100.
vl. Normal breathing.
*. If the irritant smoke produces an involuntary reaction
(cough) by the test subject, the test conductor shall stop the
test. In this case the test respirator is rejected and another
respirator shall be selected.
10. Each test subject passing the smoke test without evi-
dence of a response shall be given a sensitivity check of the
smoke from the same tube to determine whether he reacts to
the smoke. Failure to evoke a response shall void the fit test.
11. Steps B4, B7, B8 of this protocol shall be performed in
a location with exhaust ventilation sufficient to prevent gen-
eral contamination of the testing area by the test agents
(I A A, irritant smoke).
12. Respirators successfully tested by the protocol may be
used in contaminated atmospheres up to ten times the PEL.
In other words this protocol may be used to assign protection
factors not exceeding ten. {appendix D amended at 48 F.R.
9641,3/8/83.)
32
790.0.57
1910.1025 Aooenaix
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