EPA-340/1-85-002C
Air Pollution
Source Inspection
Safety Procedures
Respiratory Protection
Program Guideline
&EPA
US Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
Stationary Source Compliance Division
Washington DC 20460
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EPA-340/1 -85-002c
Respiratory Protection Program
Guideline
This EPA guideline was reprinted by the Stationary Source Compliance Division for use in compliance
training workshops on air pollution source inspection safety procedure. The EPA publications number was
assigned by SSCD as a reference number for the Stationary Source Compliance Training Series Index.
Published by
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Occupational Health and Safety Staff
401 M Street S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
February 1983
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE 1
2. BACKGROUND 1
3. DEFINITIONS I
4. THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION IROGRAM. 3
5. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION IROGRAM 3
6. SELECTION OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES 4
Identification of the Hazard . . 4
Evaluation of Che Hazard 7
Approved Respiratory Protective Devices 8
7. RESPIRATOR USE 14
Employee Responsibilities 14
Supervision of Respirator Use 15
Respirator Use Under Special Conditions 15
Special Problems in Respirator Use 17
8. TRAINING AND FITTING 18
Training 18
Fitting 20
9. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICE INSPECTION, CLEANING,
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE 24
Inspection of Respiratory Protective Devices 24
Cleaning and disinfecting 27
Maintenance 28
Storage 28
10. MEDICAL ASPECTS OF RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT USAGE 29
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Page
11. EVALUATION OF THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM 30
Surveillance of the Work Area 30
Program Evaluation 30
REFERENCES 33
APPENDIX
A. Respiratory Protection Device Recommendation Form 34
B. Model Standard Operating Procedure, Respirator Use,
High Hazard Areas 36
C. Employee Training Program 38
D. Respirator Protection Factors. 43
E. Checklist for Inspection of Pressure Demand SCBA 46
F. Duty Status Report 51
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RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM GUIDELINE
1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE. The purpose and objective of chis guideline are
to provide management personnel with sufficient Information to establish and
operate a respiratory protection program to adequately protect its employees
as required by EPA Order 1440.3, Respiratory Protection, and by the Occupa-
tional Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Regulations 29 CFR 1910.134.
2. BACKGROUND. OSHA has set maximum exposure standards for many airborne
toxic materials. If employee exposure to these substances exceeds the
standards, the regulations requires that feasible engineering controls and/
or administrative controls be installed or instituted to reduce employee
exposure to acceptable levels. If these controls do not prove feasible,
or while they are being installed/instituted, the Agency is required to
provide appropriate, approved respiratory protection for Its employees.
Respirators are the least acceptable means for reducing personnel exposures;
they only provide good protection if properly selected and fitted, worn by
employees when needed, and replaced when their service life is over. Addi-
tionally, some employees may not be able to wear a respiratory protective
device. Despite these difficulties, respiratory protective devices are the
only means of protection available to employees when engineering and work
practice controls are not feasible or inadequate, i.e., during field
operations.
3. DEFINITIONS.
a. Approved. Approved means that a respiratory protective device
has been tested and listed as satisfactory by the Bureau of
Mines (BOM) of the U.S. Department of Interior, or jointly by the
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) of the U.S. Depart-
ment of Labor and the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) of the U.S. Departtient of Health and Human
Services.
b. Canister (air-purifying). An air-purifying canister is a container
with a filter, and/or sorbent, and/or catalyst which removes specific
contaminants from the air drawn through it.
c. Canister (oxygen-generating). An oxygen-generating canister is a
container filled with a chemical which generates oxygen by chemical
reaction.
d. Ceiling concentration. The ceiling concentration means the concen-
tration of an airborne substance that shall not be exceeded.
e. Confined space. A confined space is a space defined by the con-
current existence of the following conditions:
. Existing ventilation is insufficient to remove dangerous air
contamination and/or oxygen deficiency which may exist or develop.
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2.
. Ready access or egress for the removal of a suddenly disabled
employee is difficult due to the location and/or size of the
opening(s).
f. Contaminant. A con'aminane is a harmful, irritating, or nuis nee
material that is fo.eign to the normal atmosphere.
g. Corrective lens. A corrective lens is a lens ground to the wearer's
individual corrective prescription to permit normal visual acuity.
h. Emergency respirator use. Emergency respirator use means wearing a
respirator when a hazardous atmosphere suddenly occurs which requires
Immediate use of a respirator either for escape only from the hazard-
ous atmosphere or Jor entry into the hazardous atmosphere to
carry out maintenance or some other task or for rescue purposes.
i. Hazardous atmosphere. A hazardous atmosphere is any atmosphere,
either immediately or not immediately dangerous to life or health,
which is either oxygen deficient or which contains a toxic or disease-
producing contaminant exceeding the legally established permissible
exposure limit (PEL), or where applicable, the Threshold Limit
Value (TLV) established by the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGZH).
J. Immediately dangerous to life or health. Immedia. »ly dangerous
to life or health refers to any atmosphere that poses an Immediate
hazard to life or produces imnediate irreversible effects on health
that will be debilitating.
k. Not immediately dangerous to life or health. Not immediately dan-
gerous to life or health refers to any hazardous atmosphere which
may produce physical discomfort immediately, chronic poisoning
after repeated exposure, or acute adverse physiological symptoms
after prolonged exposure.
1. Odor threshold limit. The lowest concentration of a contaminant in
air that can be detected by the olfactory sense.
m. Permissible exposure limit (PEL). Permissible exposure limit is the
legally established time-weighted average (TWA) concentration or
ceiling concentration of a contaminant that shall not be exceeded.
n. Protection factor. Protection factor is the ratio of the ambient
concentration of an airborne substance to the concentration of the
substance Inside the respirator at the breathing zone of the wearer.
The protection factor Is a measure of the degree of protection
provided to the wearer.
o. Time-weighted average (TWA). Time-weighted average is the average
concentration of a contaminant in air during a specific time period.
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3.
4. THE RESPIRATORY HIOTECTION PROGRAM. EPA Order 1440.3, Respiratory
Protection, sets out Che Agency policy, responsibilities, and basic require-
ments for a respiratory protection program to protect its employees whose
Jobs require the use of respiratory protective devices. EPA management is
required to establish and implement a respiratory protection program at
each Agency location where the activities of employees may cause them to
encounter atmospheres that contain or are suspected of containing unhealthy
quantitles of airborne contaminants or atmospheres with insufficient oxygen
content, or where there is the threat o£ an imminent release of toxic
agents. Respiratory protection may also be necessary for routine but in-
frequent operations and for non-routine operations In which the employee
Is exposed briefly to high concentrations of a hazardous substance, i.e.,
during maintenance or repair activities, or during emergency conditions.
As a minimum, a respiratory protection program must Contain all the elements
outlined in EPA Order 1440.3. These requirements are:
a. Approved respiratory protective devices must be properly selected.
b. There must be a determination of the need for respiratory protective
levices.
c. An employee Gaining program must be established in which the
employee becomes familiar with the respiratory protective devices
and is trailed in the proper selection and use of respirators and
their limitanons.
d. There oust be provisions for:
. Proper inspection, maintenance, storage and repair of respiratory
protective devices.
. Assigning respiratory protective equipment to employees for
their exclusive use, where practical.
. Testing for the proper fit of the respiratory protective
equipment.
. Surveillance of the work area and for employee exposure and stress.
. Medical screening of each employee assigned to wear respiratory
protective devices to determine If he/she is physically and
psychologically able to wear a respirator.
e. Written standard operating procedures must exist for the selection
and use of respiratory protective devices.
5. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM. Management at each
EPA location where it has been determined a Respiratory Protection Program is
required should designate one person responsible for administering the pro-
gram at that location. This person should have the responsibility for the
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4.
entire respirator program and develop the standard operating procedures.
To administer effectively the respiratory protection program, the designated
person must have:
a. Sufficient training In al . aspects of respiratory protection o
adequately manage the program.
b. The ability to make sound judgments based on hazard evaluation and
an understanding of the workplace hazards.
c. The knowledge and authority to coordinate equipment purchasing,
maintenance, cleaning and Tepair.
d. The knowledge and authority to assure that written operating
procedures are prepared for specific operations and that these
procedures are being followed.
e. The knowledge and authority to assure compliance with OSRA
and Agency respiratory protection requireme-its.
f. The resources to maintain all records associated with the program,
i.e., monitoring, medical surveillance and job asslgnmer t data,*
respirator care and maintenance records, emergency equii-ment
Inspection/maintenance tags, training records, etc.
The individual assigned the respiratory program responsibility may be a
safety specialist/manager, safety engineer, Industrial hygienist, or super-
visory person. This individual must have the full support of management
at the workplace regardless of who assumes the program responsibility.
6. SELECTION OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES. The proper selection of
respiratory protective devices basically involves three steps:
a. Identification of the hazard.
b. Evaluation of the hazard.
c. The selection of the appropriate approved respiratory protective
device based on the first two considerations. (See Appendix A,
Respiratory Protective Device Recommendation.)
Respiratory protective devices that will provide greater protection than
required may be selected, but the device selected must always be approved.
a. Identification of the Hazard. It is important to know something
about the different kinds of hazardous atmospheres which may require the
use of respirators.
o Contaminated Atmospheres
Gaseous Contaminants - These contaminants are of two types.
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5.
Gases are aeriform fluids which are in the gaseous scate at
ordinary temperature and pressure., e.g., carbon dioxide. Such substances
are solids or liquids only at ouch lower temperatures or much higher pressures
Chan are commonly found in the work environment. Carbon dioxide, is a gas at
room temperature, but it occurs as solid "dry ice" at low temperature, or
as a liquid in pressurized tank..
.. Vapors are the gaseous state of a substance that is solid or
liquid at ordinary temperature and pressure. Vapors are formed by the
evaporation of substances, i.e., acetone or trlchloroethylene, which
ordinarily occur as liquid.
• Particulate Contaminants - Particulate contaminants are suspended
particles or droplets of a subs'.ance. Many of these particles can remain
suspended in air indefinitely aud are easily Inhaled; There are three types
of particulates:
.. Dusts are solid particles produced by such processes as grinding,
crushing, and mixing of powder compounds.
.. Mists are tiny liquid droplets dispensed whenever a liquid is
sprayed, vigorously mixed, or otherwise agitated.
.. Fumes are solid condensation particles of extremely small
particle size.
. Combination Contaminants - The two basic forms of contaminated
atmospheres - gaseous and particulate - frequently occur together.
o Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres - In an oxygen deficient atmosphere,
the problem is not the presence of something harmful, but the absence of
something essential. These amospheres are most conmonly found in confined
and usually poorly ventilated spaces. Oxygen deficient atmospheres are
classified as either Inmediately dangerous to life or health or not immediately
dangerous to life or health depending on die oxygen concentration in the
atmosphere. (An oxygen deficient atmosphere immediately dangerous to life and
health is an atmosphere that contains less than 16 volume percent of oxygen
in the atmosphere at sea level. An oxygen deficient atmosphere not inmediately
dangerous to life and health is an atmosphere having an oxygen concentration
between 16 and 19.5 volume percent of oxygen In the afinosphere at sea level.)
Oxygen deficient atmospheres occur in two different ways: (1) Oxygen may
be "used up" by a chemical reaction, and (2) Oxygen Is displaced by another gas.
There Is no definition of oxygen deficient atmosphere that has been universally
accepted. OSEA has adopted and EPA accepts an oxygen deficient atmosphere as
one that contains less than 19.5 volume percent of oxygen in the aonosphere at
sea level. The following table is a partial listing of definitions of oxygen
deficient atmospheres, their source and conditions of determination.
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Definitions of Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres
Source
ACGIH Threshold Limit Values
for 1973
Federal Regulations
29 CFR Part 1915.SI
(Maritime Standards)
Oxy ,en
Content
(Vol.%)
18.0
16.5
Conditions for Determination
. under normal atmospher
pressure. . .
(not specified)
29 CFR Part 1910.94
(Ventilation Standards)
(Respirator Approval Tests)
ANSI Standards Z88.2-1969
(Respirator Practices)
ANSI Standards Z88.2-1980
(Practices for Respiratory
Protection)
Z88.5-1973
(Firefighting) .
K13.1-1973 .
(Marketing of air-purifying
canisters and cartridges)
It is difficult to visualize the effect of oxygen deficient atmospheres on
the individual. He/she is not aware of the nature of their situation.
Gradual depression of the central nervous system affects powers of discrimi-
nation, logic, and auditory acuity, with muscular weakness and lack of
coordination. Since no distressful sensations are produced, the entire
experience is comfortable and even pleasant. In reality, however, breathing
in an oxygen deficient atmosphere is like breathing under water. The
symptoms of oxygen deficiency also depend on the oxygen concentration pre-
sent. The following table presents the physiological effects of atmospheres
at and below 16 volume percent of the oxygen at sea level.
19.5 (not specified)
19.5 ". . . by volume at sea level
16.0 ". . . n. rmal air. ..."
19.8 "... normal air. ..."
19.5 ". . .at sea level. ..."
19-5 . .at aea level. ..."
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Effects of Oxygen Deficiency
02 Vol %
at Sea Level Physiological Effect
16-12 Increased breathing volume.
Accelerated heartbeat.
Impaired attention and thinking.
Impaired coordination.
14-10 Very faulty judgment.
Very poor muscular coordination.
Muscular exertion causes rapid fatigue that may
cause permanent heart damage.
Intermittent respiration.
10-6 Nausea.
Vomiting.
Inability to perform vigorous movement, or loss
of all movement.
Unconsciousness, followed by death.
Less than 6 Spasmatic breathing.
Convulsive movements.
Death in minutes.
b. Evaluation of the Hazard. The person who evaluates respiratory
hazards must have the cooperation of others in obtaining information on the
vork area, work activities and materials Co properly evaluate and determine
the appropriate respiratory protective device that will provide the best
protection for the employee. Consideration of these questions will help in
the selection of the correct equipment.
1) Does the atmosphere oxygen level meet standards? Is the atmos-
phere oxygen level expected to remain constant or decrease?
2) What is the contaminant? Is it a gas, vapor, mist, dust, or fume
_3) What is the estimated concentration of the contaminant? Have
measurements been taken?
4) Could the contaminant be considered immediately dangerous to
life or health?
5) Is the contaminant flammable? Does the concentration approach
the lower explosive limit? Do dust concentrations create a potential
explosion problem?
6) Does the contaminant have adequate warning properties, e.g.,
smell, irritation?
7) Will the contaminant irritate the eyes at the estimated concen-
tration? Is eye protection also needed?
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8) What type(s) of respirators will provide the required degree
of employee protection?
9) Is the recognized contaminant th ; only contaminant present?
10) If the contaminant is a gas or vapor, is there an effective
sorbent for the respirator cannlster?
11) Can the contaminant be absorbed through the skin? If it can, will
it result in a serious injury?
c. Selection of Approved Respiratory Protective Devices. The person
designated as the respiratory protection program manager should have an
approval authority for the purchase of respiratory protective devices. Any
respiratory protective devices purchased should be approved for the parti-
cular contaminants for which they will be used. If only one brand of
respirator is approved for a particular hazard, then that brand Is considered
to be "available" and must be used. The NIOSH approval on a 'espirator has
the following information:
o An assigned identification number placed on each unit.
o A label identifying the type of hazard for which the respirator if
approved.
o Additional information on the label which gives limitations and
identifies the component parts approved for use with the basic unit.
In the past, the BGM approved respirators. The BOM no longer grants
approval; however, some older respirators which were BOM-approved may
still be used.
o BOM-approved self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may be used
until further notice.
o BOM-approved gas masks may be used until further notice.
d. Categories of Respiratory Protective Devices. Respiratory protective
devices fall into two broad categories - air purifying and atmosphere
supplying.
1) Air-purifying respirators - These devices remove the contaminant
from the breathing air before it is Inhaled. For each model of air-purifying
respirator, there are usually many air-purifying cartridges available for
protection against specific contaminants. Combination cartridges for pro-
tection against both particulates and organic vapors are also available.
o Particulate removing filter respirators - These are generally
called "dust,'"foist," or "fume" respirators and by a filtering action remove
particulates before they can be inhaled.
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9.
. Single use, dusc - The single-use respirator Is a respirator
which 1s coopletely disposed of after use. They are for individual use
and should be discarded when resistance becomes excessive or the respirator
is damaged. Generally these respirators are approved only for pneumoconiosis
or fibrosis producing dust such as coal dust, silica dust, and asbestos.
. Quarter-mask, dust and mist; half-mask, dust and mist - The
quarter-mask covers the mouth and nose; the half-mask fits over the nose
and under the chin. The half-mask usually produces a better facepiece to
face seal than does the quarter-mask and is therefore preferred for use
against more toxic materials. Dust and mist respirators are approved for
protection against dusts and mists whose TLV is greater than 0.05 milligram
particulate matter per cubic meter of air (mg/M^).
. Quarter-mask, fume; half-mask, fume - These masks, similar
to the quarter-mask dust and mist; half-mask dust and mist, utilize a filter
element which can remove metal fumes in addition to dusts and mists from
the inhaled air. The filters are approved for metal fumes having a TLV
above 0.05 ag/H .
. Half-mask, high efficiency - These masks are the same as the
units mentioned In the two. previous paragraphs above, but use a high efficiency
filter. Because of this high efficiency filter, they can be used against dusts,
mists, fumes, and combinations of those whose TLV is less than 0.05 mg/M .
. Full facepiece - Full facepiece respirators cover the face
from the hairline to below the chin. In addition to providing more pro-
tection to the face and also a measure of eye protection, the full-face-
piece gives a better seal than the half- or quarter-masks. The protection
these respirators provide against dusts, mists, fumes, or any combination
of these contaminants depends upon the type of filter used.
Powered air-purifying respirators - These respirators use
a blower that passes the contaminated air through the cartridge or canister
where the contaminant is removed and passes the purified air into the face-
piece. The air purifying element can be a filter to remove particulates,
a cartridge or canister to remove gases or vapors, or a combination to
remove both. The face covering can be a half-mask, full-face mask, or
hood or helmet. The advantage to using a powered alr-purlfying respirator
is that it supplies air at a positive pressure within the facepiece, hood
or helmet, so that any leakage is outward.
The protection provided depends on the air-purifying element and the type
and concentration of the contaminants* Powered alr-purifylng respirators
must deliver at least 4 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to a tight fitting
facepiece such as a mask and at least 7 cfm to a loose fitting helmet or
hood. If the powered air-purifying respirator is battery operated, it
should provide the airflows mentioned for at least 4 hours without having
to recharge the battery.
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10.
o Limitations - air purifying respirators for particulates -
. Air-purifying respirators do not pr jvide oxygen, so they
must never be worn in oxygen deficient atmosphere?.
. Air-purifying respirators for particulates offer no protection
against atmospheres containing contaminant gases or vapors.
. These respirators are not NIOSH approved for abrasive blasting
operations and should not be used.
o Problems • air purifying respirators for particulates -
The air flow resistance of a particulate-removlng respirator
filter element increases as the quantity of particles it retains increases,
thus increasing the breathing resistance. As a rule of thumb, when comfortable
breathing is impaired because of dust build-up, the filter should be replaced.
The performance of some filter materials is affected \ y open
storage in very humid atmospheres. Care should be taken in storing filter
elements.
o Chemical Cartridge and Canister Respirators, Gas and Vapors -
Vapor and gas-removing respirators use cartridges or canisters containing
chemicals to trap or react with specific vapors and gases and remove them
from the air breathed. The basic difference between a cartridge and a
canister is the volume of the sorbent. Generally, a "cartridge" refers to a
chemical adsorbing element which attaches directly to the faeepiece, whereas
a "canister" refers to the chemical ads orbing.,a lament held in a harness and
which Is connected to the faeepiece via a corrugated breathing tube. Some
of the typical chemical cartridge or canister respirators are:
Half-mask and quarter-mask respirators - These are available
for protection against single chemicals such as ammonia or against entire
classes such as organic vapors. Be sure to read the label on the cartridge
or canister since it tells what the cartridge or canister protects against,
what the maximum concentration is for which the element can be used, and
in some Instances, the service life or expiration date of the element.
. Full faeepiece - The full faeepiece respirator may use a canister
or cartrldge(s) as the protective element. The front, back, and chin-mounted
full-facepiece canister respirators are also referred to as "gas masks."
o Limitations - chemical cartridge or canister, gas and vapor -
. These respirators do not supply oxygen, so they must never be
worn in oxygen deficient atmospheres.
. They must not be used if the hazardous chemical lacks adequate
warning properties - odor, taste, or irritation, unless their use is permitted
by applicable OSHA or MSHA standards. These warning properties are necessary
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11.
co alert che user that the sorbenc is saturated and that the contaminant
is passing through the cartridge or canister into the respiratory tract.
. They must not be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous
to life or health, except for escape.
. They are Intended for use only for the specific gases or vapors
for which they were tested and approved. (They may be worthless for other
gases or vapors.)
2) Atmosphere Supplying Respirators - Atmosphere supplying respirators,
rather than removing the hazardous material from the air, exclude the workplace
air altogether"and provide clean air from an independent source. There are
two kinds of atmosphere supplying respirators: (1) A supplied-air respirator
in which the user is supplied with respirable air through a hose and (2) A
self-contained respirator in which the user carries a supply of respirable
air.
o Supplied-air respirator -.Supplied-air respirators use a central
source of breathing air that is delivered to the wearer through an air supply
line or hose.
. Airline respirator devices - Airline respirator devices use
a stationary source of compressed air delivered through a high-pressure hose.
Airline respirator devices can be equipped with a half- or full-facepiece
masks, helmets, or hoods, or the device can come as a complete suit. Air-
line respirators can be used for protection against either particulates,
gases, or vapors. They provide a high degree of protection against these
contaminants but they cannot be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to
life or health because the user is completely dependent on the integrity of
the air supply hose and the air source. If something were to happen to
either the hose or air supply, the user could not escape from the contaminated
area without endangering his/her life, since the user is not guaranteed a
supply of breathing air for escape. A great advantage of the airline respirator
is that It can be used for long continuous periods. There are three types of
airline respirators.
.. Demand Airline Respirator Devices - In a demand device,
the air enters the facepiece only on demand of the user, i.e., when the user
inhales. This is due to the nature of the valve and pressure regulator.
During inhalation there is a negative pressure in the mask, so if there is
leakage, contaminated air nay enter the mask and be breathed by the user.
The leakage problem is a major drawback of the demand device. Full face
masks provide a better seal than the half-mask against leakage.
.. Pressure Demand Airline Devices - The pressure demand
device has a regulator and valve design such that there is a continuous
flow of air into the facepiece at all times. The air flow into the mask
creates a positive pressure In the mask, therefore, there is no problem of
contaminant leakage into the facepiece. This is the significant advantage
of this type of device.
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12.
.. -Continuous-flow Airline Devices - The continuous-flow
airline respirator maintains a constant airflow at all times and does
not use a regulator. Instead an airflow control valve or orifice regulates
the flow of air. The continuous-flow device creates a positive pressure
in the facepiece. There is no problem of inward leakage of contaminant.
o Air Supply System - Supply air sources (compressor or tanks)
for the supplied-air respirators must meet the following requirements.
. The air compressor must be located where contaminated air
cannot enter the system.
. The air receiver must be of sufficient capacity to enable
the wearer to escape in the event of compressor failure.
. The system must have alarms to indicate compressor failure
or overheating.
If the compressor is oil-lubricated it must have a high
temperature and/or carbon monoxide (CO) alarm. If there is no CO alarm,
frequent carbon monoxide tests of the air must be made to insure that the
CO level does not exceed 20 parts per million.
. All airline couplings must be incompatible with outlets for
other gas systems.
Breathing air quality must meet the requirements of Grade D
breathing air as described by the Compressed Gas Association. Grade D
requirements are:
.. The oxygen content of the compressed air should be between
19.5 - 23.5 percent oxygen and the remainder mainly nitrogen;
million;
• •
per million;
• •
per million; and
Hydrocarbon concentrations must not exceed 5 parts per
Carbon monoxide concentration must not exceed 20 parts
Carbon dioxide concentrations must not exceed 1000 parts
.. There must not be any pronounced odor,
o Limitations - Supplied-air respirators -
. These devices must not be used in atmospheres Immediately
dangerous to life or health since the user is dependent upon an air hose
which, if cut, crushed, or damaged, leaves him/her with little or no pro-
tection.
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. The trailing air supply hose of Che airline respirator
severely restricts the wearer's mobility. This makes the airline respirator
unsuitable for the user who must move frequently between work stations that
are separated or cover a large area, i.e., during field work.
o Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuis (SCBA). The self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA.) allows the user to carry a respirable breathing
supply with him/her, and does not need a stationary air source such as a
compressor to provide breathable air. The air supply may last from 3 minutes
to 4 hours depending on the device.
. Closed Circuit SCBA - In a closed circuit SCBA the air is
rebreathed after the exhaled carbon dioxide has been* removed and the oxygen
content restored by a compressed oxygen source or an oxygen-generating solid.
These devices are designed primarily for 1-4 hour use in toxic atmospheres.
Because negative pressure is created in the facepiece during inhalation,
there is increased leakage potential. Therefore, the devices should be
used in atmospheres immediately hazardous to life and health only when long-
duration use of an SCBA is indicated, i.e., In mine rescue. Two types of
closed circuit SCBA are available.
.. Compressed Oxygen Cylinder Type - In this device, breath-
able air Is supplied from an Inflatable bag. Exhaled air from the user
goes through an adsorber to remove carbon dioxide, and the oxygen consumed is
replenished from an oxygen cylinder.
.. Oxygen-generating Type - This type of SCBA uses an oxygen-
generating solid which reacts with water vapor and carbon dioxide from the
exhaled breath, to release oxygen. The oxygen then passes to the inflatable
bag. This device is lighter, simpler, and less expensive than the cylinder
type. However, it is useful for only about 1 hour and, once initiated,
cannot be turned off.
. Open Circuit SCBA - An open circuit SCBA. exhausts the exhaled
air to the atmosphere Instead of recirculating it. A tank of compressed
air carried on the user supplies air via a regulator to the facepiece.
Because there is no recirculation of air, the service life of the open
circuit SCBA is shorter than a closed circuit device. Two types of open
circuit SCBA's are available.
.. Demand SCBA - In a demand SCBA, air flows into the face-
piece only on the demand of the user, i.e., when the user inhales. This is
due to the nature of the valves and pressure regulator. During Inhalation
there is a negative pressure in the mask, so if there is leakage, contaminated
air can enter the mask and be breathed by the user. The leakage problem is a
major drawback of the demand device. Because of this problem, a demand type
open circuit SCBA should not be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to
life or health.
Pressure Demand SCBA - The pressure demand open circuit
SCBA has a regulator and valve design which maintains a positive pressure
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in the facepiece at all times regardless of the demand of the user. Because
of this, there Is no problem of contaminant leakage Into the facepiece.
This Is a significant advantage of the pressure demand device. The use
time of this device, though, may be reduced considerably by air leakage
outward from the facepiece.
o Combination Atmosphere Supplying Respirator - Supplied Air and
SCBA - Designed primarily as a long duration device, this respirator combines
an airline respirator with an auxiliary air supply (usually compressed air)
to protect against the possible failure of the primary air supply (the air-
line). The additional supply can be approved for 15 minutes or even longer.
The choice depends upon how long it would take to escape from the toxic
atmosphere if the primary air supply failed. This modification, therefore,
allows these devices to be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life
and health.
o Limitations of atmosphere supplying respirators -
. The air supply is limited to the amount in the cylinder (SCBA's
using a compressed air tank) and therefore the respirator cannot be used for
extended periods without recharging or replacing the cylinders.
Because these respirators are bulky and heavy, they are often
unsuitable for strenuous work or use in confined spaces.
. Because of the short service time of the auxiliary air supply,
the escape portion of the combination unit can be used only for escape from
atmospheres Immediately hazardous to life or health unless the escape portion
has a minimum of 15 minutes service life. Such devices can then be used
for entry into immediately dangerous to life or health atmospheres provided
not more than 20 percent of the available breathing supply is used. These
devices may always be used for entry into immediately dangerous to life or
health atmospheres when utilized with the external air supply.
. Because the outward air leakage from the facepiece of the
pressure demand device can cause loss of air the use time may be shortened.
7. RESPIRATOR USE. All employees required to wear respiratory protective
devices should, if practical, be assigned their protective equipment for
their exclusive use. A system should be established to facilitate the account-
ing of users and of the equipment. When a respirator Is assigned to a user
it should be permanently marked to indicate to whom it is assigned. The
marking must be done in such a way that it does not hurt the respirator per-
formance. Records should indicate the date of initial issue, the dates of
reissue, and a listing of repairs.
a. Employee Responsibilities. As a respiratory protective device user,
employees have these responsibilities:
1) Use respiratory protective equipment as instructed.
2) Guard against damaging the respirator.
3) Go immediately to an area of "clean" air if the respirator
malfunctions.
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4) Report any malfunctioning of respiratory protective devices
to their supervisor. These malfunctions would include but not be limited
to:
. Discomfort;
. Resistance to breathing;
. Fatigue due to respirator usage;
Interference with vision or ccamunication;
. Restriction of movement.
b. Supervision of Respirator Use. Respirators in use must be randomly
inspected at frequent intervals to ensure that those selected for the job
are being used and that they are in good condition. This periodic monitoring
should include:
1) A determination that the proper respirators are being used.
2) Determination that respirators are being worn properly.
3) Consultation with users about:
. Discomfort
. Resistance to breathing
. Fatigue
Interference with vision
. Interference with communications
. Restriction of movement
Interference with job performance
. Confidence in the respirator
If problems are discovered during the random inspection, they should be
rectified.
c. Respirator Ose Under Special Conditions. There are several conditions
where the use of respiratory protective devices require special preparations.
1) Dangerous A&nospheres - If respiratory protective devices are to
be used in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health, a standard
operating procedure for work in high hazard areas must be written. (See
Appendix B, Model Standard Operating Procedure, Respirator Use, High Hazard
Areas.) The standard operating procedure must as a minimum cover the following
points.
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. Individuals designated to enter into dangerous atmospheres
must have training with the proper equipment. These individuals must be
equipped with safety harnesses and safety lines so that they can b« removed
from the atmosphere if necessary.
. Designation and provision of a standby individual, equipped
with proper rescue equipment, who must be present in a nearby safe area
for possible emergency rescue.
. Provision for communication between persons in the dangerous
atmosphere and the standby person must be made. Communication may be visual
or by voice, signal line, telephone, radio, or other suitable mean:...
Other important data such as toxicological information and emergency phone
numbers should be included.
2) Confined Spaces - Confined spaces are defined as enclosures
where the existing ventilation is insufficient to remove dangerous air
contamination and/or oxygen deficiency which may exist or develop and ready
access or egress for the removal of a suddenly disabled employee is difficult
due to the location and/or size of the openlng(s). These special precautions
must be taken:
Before entering a confined space, tests should be made to
determine the presence and concentration of any flammable gas, toxic air-
borne particulate, vapor, gas, and oxygen concentration.
. If the concentration of a flammable substance exceeds 25 per-
cent of the lower explosive limit, the confined space must be force ventilated
to keep the concentration well below the lower explosive limit. The concen-
tration of contaminant or oxygen percent should be continuously monitored
while individuals are working in the confined space.
Only individuals specially trained should be allowed to enter
confined spaces and the proper respiratory protective devices must be worn.
.. Air-purifying respirators and airline type supplied-air
respirators may be worn in a confined space only if the tests show that the
atmosphere contains adequate oxygen and that air contaminants are well below
levels immediately dangerous to life or health. While employees wearing
these types of respirators are in a confined space, the atmosphere must be
monitored continuously.
If the atmosphere in a confined space is immediately
dangerous to life or health due to a high concentration of air contaminant or
oxygen deficiency, employees entering the space must wear a positive pressure
SCBA or a combination airline and a positive pressure SCBA.
. A standby individual with proper rescue equipment, including
an SCBA, must be present outside the confined space for possible emergency
rescue. Communication must be maintained via voice, signal line, telephone,
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etc., between employees in Che confined space and Che standby person. The
employee inside the confined space must be equipped with safety harnesses and
safety lines to allow removal in case of an emergency.
3) Low and High Temperatures - The use of respiratory protective
devices in low temperatures can create several problems. The lenses of the
full facepiece equipment may fog due to condensation of the water vapor in
the exhaled breath. (Coating the inner surface of die lens with an anti-
fogging compound will reduce fogging. . Nose cups that direct the warm, moist
exhaled air through the exhalation valve without touching the lens ore
available from manufacturers for Insertion into the full facepiece.) The
exhalation*valve can freeze onto the valve seat due to the moisture in the
exhaled air. The user will be aware when this situation occurs by the
increased pressure in the facepiece. (When unsticking the valve, care
should be taken so as not to tear the rubber diaphragm.)
Respirator usage In hot environments can put additional stress on the user.
The stress can be minimized by using a light-weight respirator with low
breathing resistance. An airline type atmosphere-supplying respirator
equipped with a vortex tube can be used. The vortex tube may either cool
or warm the supplied air (depending on the connection and setting). This
protection scheme can be used in both hot and cold environments.
d. Special Problems in Respirator Use
1) Facial Bair - Facial hair lying between the sealing surface of
a respirator facepiece and the wearer's skin will prevent a good seal. If
the respirator permits negative air pressure Inside the facepiece during
inhalation, there will be excessive penetration by an air contaminant. Even
a few days growth of stubble will permit excessive contaminant penetration.
Any employee who has stubble, a moustache, sideburns, or a beard that
passes between his face and the sealing surface must not wear a respirator
that allows negative pressure inside the facepiece during inhalation.
2) Corrective Lenses - Spectacle temple bars or straps that pass
between the sealing surface of a full facepiece and the wearer's face
prevent a good seal. Therefore, spectacles that have temple bars -or straps
must not be used when a full-facepiece respirator must be worn. Spectacles
with short temple bars that do not protrude between the sealing surface and
the user's face, or spectacles without temple bars which.>are taped to the
wearer's face may be used temporarily. Special corrective lenses that can
be mounted inside the full facepiece are available and should be used by
employees who need them. The special corrective lenses must be mounted
in the full facepiece by a qualified person to ensure good vision, comfort,
and proper sealing of the facepiece. Spectacles or goggles may also
interfere with quarter- or half-masks. They must be worn so as not to
Interfere with the seal of the facepiece. If there is interference, a full
facepiece respirator should be worn to avoid sealing problems.
Contact lenses must not be worn while wearing a respirator in a comtaminated
atmosphere. A properly fitted respirator may stretch the skin around the
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eyes, creating Che possibility that the contact lens will fall out. Also,
contaminants that do penetTate the respirator could get underneath the
contact lens and cause severe discomfort. The user's first reaction would
be to remove the facepiece to remedy the situation - which could be fattL
in a lethal environment.
3) Other Sealing Problems - Scars, hollow temples, very prominent
cheekbones, deep skin creases, and lack of teeth or dentures may cause
respiratory facepiece sealing problems. Full dentures should be retained
when wearing a respirator, but partial dentures may or may not have to be
removed, depending upon the possibility of swallowing them. With full
lower dentures, problems in fitting quarter-masks can be expected, as tte
lower part of the mask tends to unseat the denture. Persons with punctured
ear drums also should not wear respirators.
8. TRAINING AND FITTING
a. Training. Selecting the respirator appropriate for a given hazard
is Important, but equally important is using the selected device properly.
Proper u,e can be ensured by carefully training both supervisors and users
in selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. The
content of a training program can vary widely, depending on the needs,
however, OSEA requires that the training of both users and supervisors
include tfce following, no matter what the circumstances:
1) An opportunity to handle the respirator,
2) Proper fitting,
3) Test of facepiece to face seal,
4) A long familiarizing period of wear in normal air.
The training of users and supervisors for specific use situations should
also include:
1> A discussion of the engineering and administrative controls in
use and why respirators are needed.
2) Explanation of the nature of the respiratory hazard and what
would happen If the respirator is not used properly,
3) Explanation of why a particular type of respirator has been
selected,
4) A discussion of how to recognize and handle emergencies.
The training requirements apply to both large and small groups or units of
employees required to wear respiratory protective devices, with no differen-
tiation to meet individual needs.
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19.
1) Supervisor - Supervisors who oversee the daily activities of
one or more employees who wear respirators frequently should have a know-
ledge of respirators and respiratory protection practices. Supervisory
training should include, but not be limited to, the following areas.
. Basic respiratory protection practices,
. Selection and use of respirators to protect each employee
against every respiratory hazard to which he/she may be exposed,
. The nature and extent of the respiratory hazards to which
the employees may be exposed,
. The structure and operation of the entire respirator pro-
gram. The supervisor should understand his/her responsibility to facilitate
the Implementation of the program. Including maintenance that the employee
may be expected to do, issuance of respirators, control of their use, and
evaluation of the program's effectiveness.
. The legal requirements pertinent to use of respirators In
his/her area of jurisdiction.
These supervisory training requirements apply to the large groups or field
units with employees required to use respiratory protective devices. A
smaller group or field unit may have to combine the supervisor training
with that of the employee. This will benefit the employees because they
will receive more comprehensive training.
2) Employee Instruction and Training - EFA Order 1440.3 requires
that employees receive a minimum of six hours of Initial training, and two
to four hours annually thereafter. This is a minimum requirement. The
extent and frequency of the employee's training will depend on the nature
and extent of the hazard. If the hazard is a nuisance particulate, for
example, the danger from misuse of the respirator is not likely to be serious.
However, against highly toxic particulates-, a single misuse may have serious
consequences. The same is true for gases and vapors. If the respirator
is to be used in an emergency, training in its use should be very thorough
and complete. In any case, the employee must be given some instruction
and training in respiratory protection practices. Because proper respirator
use depends upon the employee's motivation, it is important that the need
for respiratory protection be explained fully. The following points should
be included in a minimum acceptable respiratory protection training program.
Instruction in the nature of the hazard, whether acute, chronic,
ot both, and an honest appraisal of what may happen if the respirator is
not used.
. Explanation of why more positive control Is not immediately
feasible. This should include recognition that every reasonable effort is
being made to reduce or eliminate the need for respirators.
. Discussion of why the proper type of respirator must be
used for each particular hazard.
Discussion of respirator capabilities and limitations.
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Instruction and training in actual use o€ the respirator.
Classroom and field training in recognizing and coping with
emergencies.
Proper fitting.
. Other special training as needed.
The major thrust of the training is toward explaining as much as possible
the reasons for wearing a respirator. This is to motivate the user to
accept the fact that protection is necessary, and to Instill in him/her
the desire to wear and maintain his/her respirator properly. Just giving
a respirator to an employee with orders that it must be worn because OSHA
says so is one of the easiest ways to ensure its misuse. It is also a
cop-out by management. (See Appendix C, Employee Training Program.)
At best, a respirator may cause discomfort and inconvenience, so there is
a natural resistance toward wearing it conscientiously. Most of an employee's
natural resistance can be overcome by taking the time and effort to inform
the user why he/she needs the respirator. This effort will create easier
acceptance of respirators and contribute to correct use.
b. Fitting. The proper fitting of respiratory protective devices
requires the use of some type of fit test. The fit test is needed to deter-
mine a proper nu »ch between the faceplece of the respirator and the face of
the user.
1) Test Atmospheres - It is required that the user be allowed to
test the faceplece to face seal of the respirator and wear it in a test
atmosphere. The test atmosphere amounts to an enclosure in which the user
can enter with the equipment on, and a "test" atmosphere (of low toxicity)
can be generated.
Elaborate enclosures are available commercially, but a "do it yourself"
qualitative fit test enclosure can be put together by the use of a plastic
bag, several hangers, and some cotton. This enclosure is illustrated on
the following pp^e.
2) Test Methods - There are two types of tests: Qualitative tests
and quantitative tests. The selection of one or both types of tests depends
on the severity and extent of the respiratory hazard and the size of the
unit or number of employees involved in wearing respiratory protective
devices. During any fitting test, the respirator headstraps must be as
comfortable as possible. Tightening the straps will sometimes reduce
faceplece leakage, but the user may be unable to tolerate the respirator
for any length of time.
. Qualitative Tests - Qualitative tests are fast, require no
complicated expensive equipment, and are easily performed. However, these
tests rely on the user's subjective response, and so are not entirely
reliable. There are two major qualitative tests:
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21.
Hangers
Cotton Wad
Plastic Bag
.. Isoamyl Acetate - Isoamyl acetate, a low toxicity sub-
stance with a banana oil like odor, is used widely in testing the facepiece fit
of organic vapor cartridge/canister respirators. The substance is applied
to the cotton wad inside the enclosure. The user should put on the respira-
tory protective device in an area away from the test enclosure so that there
is no prior contamination of the cartridge or "pre-exposure" to the isoamyl
acetate. The user should perform the following.
... Normal breathing.
... Deep breathing, as during heavy exertion. This
should not be done long enough to cause hyperventilation.
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22.
... Side-to-side and up-and-down head movements. These
movements should be exaggerated, but should approximate those that take
place on the job.
... Talking, nils Is most easily accomplished by reading
a prepared text loudly enough to be understood by someone standing nearby.
... Other exercises may be added depending upon the need.
The major drawback of the iosamyl acetate test is that the odor threshold
varies widely among Individuals. Also, the sense of smell is easily dulled
and may deteriorate during the test so that the user can detect only high
vapor concentrations. Another disadvantage is that isoamyl acetate smells
pleasant, even In high concentrations. Therefore, a user may say that the
respirator fits although it has a leak. A user may say that a respirator
fits because he/she likes the fit of the particular respirator or is
fallowing the respirator selection of another employee. Conversely, a
user may claim that a particular respirator leaks if it is uncomfortable,
etc. Therefore, unit 3s the employee is highly motivated toward wearing
respirators, the results of this test must sometimes be suspect.
.. Irritant Smoke Test - The irritant smoke test, similar to
the isoamyl acetate te.*t in concept, is used widely in testing the facepiece
fit of particulate filceT respirators.. This test can be used for both air-
purifying and atmosphere«supplylng respirators, but an air-purifying
respirator must have a high-efficiency filter. The test substance is an
irritant (stannic chloride or titanium tetrachloride) which is available
commercially in sealed glass tubes. When the tube ends are broken and air
passed through them, a dense irritating smoke is emitted. In this test,
the user steps into the test enclosure and the irritant smoke is sprayed
into the test hole. If the user detects any of the irritant smoke, it
means a defective fit, and adjustment or replacement of the respirator
is required. The irritant smoke test must be performed with caution
because the aerosol is highly irritating to the eves, skin, and mucous
membrane. As a qualit five means of determining respirator fit, this
test has a distinct advantage in that the wearer usually reacts involuntarily
to leakage by coughing or sneezing. The likelihood of giving a false
indication of proper fit is reduced.
.. Negative Pressure Test - This test (and the positive pressure
test) should be used only as a very gross determination of fit. The wearer
should use this test just before entering the hazardous atmosphere. In this
test, the user closes off the inlet of the canister, cartridge(s) or fllter(s)
by covering with the palm(s) or squeezing the breathing tube so that it
does not pass air; inhales gently so that the facepiece collapses slightly;
and holds his/her breath for about 10 seconds.
If the facepiece remains slightly collapsed and no inward leakage is
detected, the respirator is probably tight enough. This test, of course,
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can only be used on respirators with tight-fitting facepieces. Although
this test is simple, it has severe drawbacks; primarily that the wearer
oust handle the respirator a£ter it has supposedly been positioned on his
face. This handling can modify the facepiece seal. A second drawback is
that, with a negative pressure in the facepiece, a leaking facepiece may
be drawn tightly to the face to form a good seal, giving a false reading
of a good seal.
.. Positive Pressure Test - This test, similar to the negative
pressure test, is conducted by closing off the exhalation valve and exhaling
gently into the facepiece. The fit is considered satisfactory if slight
positive pressure can be built up inside the facepiece without any evidence
of outward leakage. For some respirators, this method requires that the
wearer remove the exhalation valve cover; this often disturbs the respirator
fit even more than does the negative pressure test. Therefore, this test
should be used sparingly if It requires removing and replacing a valve
cover. The test is easy for respirators whose valve cover has a single
imall port that can be closed by the palm or a finger.
2) Quantitative Tests - Quantita ive respirator performance tests
involve plac'ag the user wearing the device in an atmosphere containing an
easily detectable, relatively nontoxic gas, vapor, or aerosol. The atmos-
phere inside the respirator is sampled continuously through a probe in the
resplratory-l~let covering. The leakage Is expressed as a percentage of
the test atmosphere outside the respirator, called "percent of penetration,"
or simply "penetration." The greatest advantage of a quantitative test
is that it indicates respirator fit numerically, and does not rely on a
subjective response. The quantitative fit test is highly recotmended
when facepiece leakage must be minimized for work in highly toxic atmos-
pheres or those lomediately dangerous to life or health. (See Appendix D,
Respirator Protection Factors.)
The quantitative tests require expensive (up to $10,000) equipment that
can be operated only by highly trained personnel. Also, it is difficult
to use because of its complexity and bulk. Each test respirator must be
equipped with a sampling probe to allow cor *inual removal of an air sample
from the facepiece so the same facepiece ctanot be worn in actual service,
since the test orifice negates the approval of the respirator.
.. Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Test - In this test, a liquid aerosol
is generated continuously from a salt water solution, dried to produce dis-
crete submicron salt particles, and dispersed Into a test chamber or hood.
A means is provided for sampling the atmosphere in the chamber or hood
and Inside the respirator. These samples are fed to the analyzing section
where the aerosol's penetration Inside the respirator is determined. The
amount of penetration is displayed on a meter'or recorder.
.. Dloctyl Phthalate (DOP) Test - The dioctyl phthalate (DOP)
quantitative fitting test, which uses an air-generated DOP serosol, differs
from the Na€l test only in that the aerosol particle is liquid. The aerosol
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is generated using a nozzle-type atomizer, but being an oil, DOP does not
dry into solid particles when injected into a diluting air stream.
9. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICE INSPECTION, CLEANING, MAINTENANCE, AND
STORAGE. Scrupulous respirator maintenance must be made an integral part
of the overall respirator program. Wearing poorly maintained or malfunc-
tioning respirators is, in one sense, more dangerous than not wearing a
respirator at all. The employee wearing a defective device thinks he/she
is protected when, in reality, he/she is not. Emergency escape and rescue
devices are particularly vulnerable to poor maintenance as they generally
are used Infrequently, and then in the most hazardous and demanding cir-
cunstances. The possible consequences of a user wearing a defective
emergency escape and rescue device are lethal.
A proper maintenance program ensures that the user's respirator remains
as effective as when it was new. All programs are required to include as a
minimum;
a. Inspection for defects (including a leak check),
b. Cleaning and disinfecting,
c. Repair,
d. Storage.
a. Inspection of Respiratory Protective Devices. An important part
of a respirator maintenance program is the inspection of the devices. If
performed carefully, inspections will Identify damaged or malfunctioning
respirators.
1) Inspection Schedules - All respiratory protective devices must
be Inspected:
o Before and after each use; and
o During clean! .g.
Equipment designated for emergency use must be inspected:
o After each use;
o During cleaning; and
o At least monthly.
Self-contained breathing apparatus must be inspected:
o At least monthly.
2) Recordkeeping - A record must be kept of Inspection dates and
findings for respirators maintained for emergency use.
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3) Inspection Considerations - The primary defects to look for in
the inspection of the components of the respirator are itemized below.
Information within the parentheses are suggested actions to be taken.
o Disposable respirator
. Holes in die filter (obtain new disposable respirator);
. Straps for elasticity and deterioration (replace straps -
contact manufacturer); and
. Metal nose clip for deterioration, if applicable (obtain
new disposable respirator).
o Air-purifying respirators (quarter-mask, half-mask, full
facepiece and gas mask)
. Rubber facepiece - check for:
.. Excessive dirt (clean all dirt from facepiece);
Cracks, tears, or holes (obtain new facepiece);
.. Distortion (allow facepiece to "sit" free from any
constraints and see if distortion disappears; if not, obtain new facepiece);
and
.. Cracked, scratched, or loose fitting lenses (contact
respirator manufacturer to see if replacement is possible; otherwise obtain
new facepiece).
. Headstraps - check for
.. Breaks or tears (replace headstraps);
.. Loss of elasticity (replace headstraps);
.. Broken or malfunctioning buckles or attachments
(obtain new buckles); and
.. Excessively worn serrations on the head harness which
might allow the facepiece to slip (replace headstrap).
. Inhalation valve, exhalation valve - check for:
.. Detergent residue, dust particles, or dirt on valve
or valve seat (clean residue with soap and water);
Cracks, tears, or distortion in the valve material
or valve seat (contact manufacturer for Instructions); and
.. Missing or defective valve cover (obtain valve cover
from manufacturer).
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. Filter element(s) - check for:
.. Proper filter for the hazard;
.. Approval designation;
.. Missing or worn gaskets (contact manufacturer for
replacement);
.. Worn threads - both filter threads and facepiece
threads (replace filter or facepiece, whichever is applicable);
.. Cracks or dents in filter housing (replace filter);
.. Deterioration of gas mask cannister harness (replace
harness); and
.. Service life indicator, or end of service date - for
expiration, gas mask (contact manufacturer to find out if filter element
has one; If not ask what will indicate the "end of service").
Corrugated beatliing tube (gas mask) - check for:
.. Cracks or holes (replace tube);
.. Missing or loose hose clamps (obtain new clamps); and
Broken or missing end connectors (obtain new connectors).
o Atmosphere Supplying Respirators
. Facepiece, headstraps, valves, and breathing tube - These
items should be checked as for the air-purifying respirators.
Hood, helmet, blouse, or full suit, if applicable -
check for:
.. Rips and torn seams (if unable to repair the tear
adequately, replace);
.. Headgear suspension (adjust properly for you);
.. Cracks or breaks In faceshield (replace faceshield); and
.. Protective screen to see that it is intact and fits
correctly over the faceshield, abrasive blasting hoods, and blouses (obtain
new screen).
. Air supply system - check for:
Breathing air quality;
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27.
.. Breaks or kinks In air supply hoses and end fitting
attachments (replace hose and/or fitting);
*. Tightness of connections;
.. Proper setting of regulators and valves (consult
manufacturer's recommendations); and
.. Correct operation of air-purifying elements and carbon
monoxide or high temperature alarms.
o Self-contained- breathing apparatus (SCBA) - (See Appendix E.)
b. Cleaning and Disinfecting. When respiratory protective devices
are used routinely, the respirators should be cleaned and disinfected daily.
If respirators are used only occasionally, periodic cleaning and disinfecting
is appropriate.
1) Methods - The actual cleaning may be done in a variety of ways.
o The respiratory protective device should be washed with
detergent in warm water using a brush, thoroughly rinsed in clean water, and
then air dried in a clean place. Care should be taken to prevent damage
from rough handling. This method is an accepted procedure for a small group
or unit of employees where each employee cleans his/her own respirator.
o A standard domestic-type dish or clothes washer may be used
if a rack is installed to hold the facepieces in a fixed position. (If
the facepieces are placed loose in the washer they may be damaged.) This
method is especially useful in a large unit or group and where respirator
usage is extensive.
2) Detergents and disinfectants - If possible, detergents containing
a bactericide should be used. Organic solvents should not be used, as they
can deteriorate the rubber- faceplece. If the above combination is not avail-
able, a detergent may be used, followed by a disinfecting rinse. Reliable
disinfectants may be made from some available household solutions.
o Hypochlorite solution (50 parts per million (ppai) of chlorine)
made by adding approximately two tablespoons of chlorine bleach per gallon
of water. A two-minute immersion disinfects the respirators.
o Aqueous solution of iodine (50 ppo made by adding approxi-
mately one teaspoon of tincture of Iodine per gallon of water). Again, a
two-minute innerslon is sufficient and will not damage the rubber and
plastic in the respirator facepieces. Check with the manufacturer to
find out the proper temperature for the solutions.
3) If the respirators are washed by hand, a separate disinfecting
rinse may be provided. If a dish or clothes washing machine is used the
disinfectant must be added to the rinse cycle, and the amount of water In the
machine at that time will have to be measured to determine the correct
amount of disinfectant to be added.
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28.
4) Rinsing - The cleaned and disinfected respirators should be
rinsed thoroughly in clean water <120 F maximum) to remove all traces of
detergent, cleaner and sanitlzer, and disinfectant. This is very important
to prevent dermatitis.
5) Drying - The respirators may be allowed to dry by themselves
on a clean surface. They also may be hung from a horizontal wire, like
drying clothes, but care must be taken not to damage the facepieces.
c. Maintenance. Continued usage of respiratory protective devices
may require periodic repair or replacement of component parts of the
equipment. Such repairs and parts replacement must be done by a qualified
lndlvldual(s).
Replacement of parts and repair of air-purifying respirators, in most cases,
present little problem. Host equipment manufacturers 3upply literature which
details the component parts of their respirator and Include servicing infor-
mation. The manufacturer will also provide replacements parts. Replacement
parts for respiratory protective devicis must be those of the manufacturer
of the ee •ipment. Substitution of parts from a different brand or type of
respirator will Invalidate the approval of the respirator.
Defective air-supplying respiratory pro.ectlve equipment, with the exception
of the SCBA, can be repaired and worn li broken parts are replaced by a
qualified Individual - again with the aid of the manufacturer's literature
and parts. Maintenance of SCBA. equipment is more difficult, primarily
because of the valve and regulator assembly. Because of this, regulations
require that SCBA. equipment be returned to the manufacturer for adjustment
or repair.
d. Storage. All the care that has gone into cleaning and maintenance
of a respirator can be negated by improper storage. Respiratory protective
equipment must be stored to protect It from dust, sunlight, heat, extreme
cold, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals. Leaving a respirator
unprotected can lead to damage of the w rking parts or permanent distortion
of the facepiece, thus making it lneffe.tive.
After cleaning and disinfecting the respirators, they should be placed
individually in heat-sealed or resealable plastic bags until reissue. They
should be stored in a single layer with the facepiece and exhalation valve
in a more or less normal position to prevent the rubber or plastic from
taking a permanent distorted "set".
1) Air-purifying respirators - Air purifying respirators kept
ready for nonroutine or emergency use should be stored in a cabinet in
individual compartments.
2) Air-supplying respiratory protective equipment - A storage chest
for self-contained breathing apparatus may be purchased from the manufacturer.
All storage cabinets should be located in noncontamlnated, but readily
accessible, areas.
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29.
10. MEDICAL ASPECTS OF RESPIRATORY EQUIIMENT USAGE. EPA Order 1440.3,
Respiratory Protection, requires that employees assigned to tasks requiring
the use o£ respiratory protective devices oust have a medical evaluation,
defined by the Agency's Occupational Medical Monitoring Guidelines. There
must be a determination that employees are physically capable of performing
the work while wearing the devices. These requirements are necessary because
Che use of any type of respirator may impose some physiological stress on
the user. Air-purifying respirators, for example, make breathing more
difficult because the filter or cartridge impedes the flow of air. The
special exhalation valve on an open circuit pressure demand respirator
requires the user to exhale against significant resistance. The bulk and
weight of an SCBA can be a burden. If die employee is using an airline
respirator, he/she might have to drag up to 300 feet of hose around. All
of these factors can significantly Increase the employee's workload.
So that the examining physician can give a qualified opinion regarding
whether an employee can use a respirator, the Agency should provide the
following information. (See Appendix F, Duty Status Report.)
a. Type of respiratory protection equipment to be used, and its modes
of operation;
b. The casks that the employee will perform while wearing the respirator;
c. Visual and audio requirements associated with the task;
d. Length of time that the employee will wear the respiratory
protective equipment; and
e. The substance(s) to which the employee will be exposed, and the
related toxicity data.
The following checklist will give the Respiratory Protection Program Manager
a good indication of the employee's ability to wear a respirator.
a. Lung
History of asthma or emphysema.
Difficulty in breathing.
Previously documented lung problems.
b. Heart
High blood pressure.
Artery diseases.
Documented, heart problems.
c. Other
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30.
___ Missing or arthritic fingers.
Facial scars.
Claustrophobia.
— Poor eyesight.
___ Perforated ear drum(s).
A "yes" answer to any of these questions would constitute a warning sign
regarding the use of respirators by an employee. A medical opinion to
confirm any of these situations should then be obtained.
11. EVALUATION OF THE RESPIRATORY PROTECTION HtOGRAM. Two important aspects
of the respirator program are the periodic surveillance of the work areas
which require use of respirators, and an evaluation of the program for effect-
iveness.
a. Surveillance of the Work Area. Many things can affect the need to
use respirators. To determine the continued necessity of respiratory
protection or c ed for additional protection there should be appropriate
surveillance ot the work area conditions and the degree of employee exposure
or stress to a1low for program changes as needed.
b. Program Evaluation. The respirator program at each Agency unit
should be evaluated at least annually, with program adjustments, as appro-
priate, made to reflect the evaluation results. The following are areas
of the Respiratory Protection Program that should be evaluated.
1) Program Adainis tration
o Program responsibility is vested in one individual who is
knowledgeable and who can coordinate all aspects of the program.
o The implementation of engineering controls, if feasible,
to alleviate the need for respirators is in p*ogress.
o There are written procedures/statements covering these aspects
of the respirator program.
. A Program Manager has been designated.
Procedures for respirator selection are developed.
. The purchase of approved equipment is assured.
. The procedures for issuing respiratory equipment are in
place.
. The medical aspects of respirator usage are defined and a
program is in place.
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31.
. Employees are properly fitted for respiratory protective
devices.
. Provisions for the maintenance, storage, and repair
of respiratory protective equipment are being followed.
. There Is a program for regular Inspection of respiratory
protective equipment, and
. The provisions for use of respiratory protective equipment
under special conditions are defined.
2) Program Operation
o The selection of respiratory protective equipment consider
these factors:
. The work area conditions and employee exposures.
. Respirators are selected on the basis of hazards to
which the employee is exposed.
. The selection of respirators Is made by knowledgeable
individuals.
o Only approved respirators are purchased and used.to provide
adequate protection for specific hazards and concentrations of contaminants.
o Respirators are issued to users for their exclusive use,
where practical, and records are maintained covering the issuance.
o The fitting of respiratory protective equipment taken into
consideration these factors:
. Users are given the opportunity to try on several different
brands of respirators to assure that the make of respirator they will be
wearing is the best fitting one.
. Respiratory protective equipment is fit tested at appropriate
Intervals.
. Respiratory protective equipment users who require corrective
lexises are properly fitted.
. Respiratory protective equipment users are prohibited from
wearing contact lenses when using the respirator.
. Facepiece to face seal is tested in a test atmosphere.
o The maintenance of respiratory protective equipment covers
these factors.
. Cleaning and Disinfecting -
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32.
.. Respirators are cleaned and disinfected after each
use when different employees use the same device or as frequently as
necessary for devices Issued to individual users.
.. Proper methods of cleaning and disinfecting are
utilized.
. Storage
.. Respirators are stored in a manner so as to protect
them from dust, sunlight, heat, excessive cold or moisture, and damaging
chemicals.
.. Respirators are stored properly to prevent them from
deforming.
." Inspection
.. Respirators are inspected before and after each use
and duriti' cleaning.
.. Employees/users are instructed in inspection
techniques.
Respiratory protective equipment designated for
emergency use Is inspected at least monthly (In addition to after each use).
.. Records are kept of the Inspection of emergency use
respiratory protective equipment.
. Repair
The replacement parts used for repairing respirators
are those of the manufacturer of the respirator.
.. Repairs are made by knowledgeable individuals.
.. Repairs of SCBA's are made by certified personnel
or by a manufacturer's representative.
. Special Use Conditions
Procedures are developed for the use of respiratory
protective equipment in atmospheres Immediately dangerous to life or health.
Procedures are developed for equipment usage for
entry into confined spaces.
. Training
.. Employees are trained in proper usage of respiratory
protective equipment.
.. Employees are trained in the basis for respirator
selection.
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33.
REFERENCES
1. EPA Order 1440.3, Respiratory Protection. July 24, 1981.
2. Department of Labor, OSHA, Occupational Health and Safety Standards.
29 CFR Part 1910.134, General Respirator Requirements, Federal Register,
Volume 37, Number 202, October 18, 1972.
3. Department of Labor, OSHA, Occupational Health and Safety Standards.
29 CFR 1910.94, 111, 252, 261, 262, 265, 266, 1001-1029, Specific Respirator
Requirements, Federal Register, Volume 37, Number 202, October 18, 1972.
4. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, Respiratory Protective Devices:
Tests for Permissibility: Fees. 30 CFR Part 11, Federal Register, Volume
37, Number 59, March 25, 1972.
5. American National Standards Institute, Standard 288.2-1969, Respirator
Practices. ANSI, 1430 Broadway, New York, N. Y. 10018.
6. American National Standards Institute, Standard Z88.2-1980, Practices for
Respiratory Protection. ANSI, 1430 Broadway, New York, N. Y. 10018.
7. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hyglenlsts, Threshold Limit
Values for 1973 (and current year), ACGIH, 1014 Broadway, Cincinnati,
Ohio 45202.
NOTE: Information from these references is either used or referred to in this
guideline. A copy of the complete text of the references Is valuable in setting
up and managing a respiratory protection program. It Is recommended that copies
of these references be obtained and filed with this guideline.
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APPENDIX A
34.
Respirator; Protective Device Recommendation
Home of Employee/User ¦
Program Office ___Telephone Humber _____
Anticipated Hazards
1. Materials
a« Chemical Same ____________
b. Trade Hame
c. Formula _____________^_
d. TL7 o TWA OSBA 1910.1000 Other
2. Form of Materials
a. liquid? _____ b. Solid? _____c* Caseous? ¦
d. If gaseous, is it an organic vapor? ______ or acid gas? _____
other? -
3. Maximum expected concentration
a. parts per million, or
b. milligrams per cubic meter
4. Will material be heated? ______ If so, to vhat temperature? °F
5. Vhat is the odor threshold of the ¦*tarlal?__^______^_<__>ii_
6. At vhat concentration is the material considered to be Immediately
dangerous to life or health? ____________________
7. Can the substance be absorbed through the skin?
8. Irritant to eyes? ___ respiratory tract? _____ skin? ______
9. At what concentration is it an irritant? ________________
10. If the substance is known to be flammable, what are the lover and
upper flammable limits, In per cent by volume? _______________
11. What is the vapor pressure of the material?
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12.
35.
Will the material be mixed vith other chemicals?
details
If so, give
13. Any possibility of oxygen deficiency? _
14. Can good ventilation of the area be maintained? .
13. Will exposure be continuous? or intermittent?
16. Will die respiratory device be used for routine exposures, or vill
it be used as aa escape device? ^___
Respiratory Protective Device(s) Recommended:
Other Personal Protective Clothing or Equipment Recommended:
Date
Respiratory Protection Program Manager
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36.
APPENDIX B
MODEL
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
RESPIRATOR USE
HIGH HAZARD AREAS
1. Location: ¦
2. Date of Preparation
3. Prepared by
4. Operation or Procedures vhere respirators are required
5. Type(s) of respL ator to be used
6. Other Protective clothing and equipment required:
Harness Skin
Safety Lines • Head
Eye Protection Other
Body ______________ (full) ^^ (partial)
7. Training required: :
8. Provisions for Standby person:
9. Provisions for communication _____________
10. Conditions under which respirator Is to be used :
Oxygen deficient? ____________________
Type(s) of contaminants ? _______________
Expected Concentrations?
Peak Concentrations?
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37.
11. Type and Frequency of Monitoring:
12. Emergency Procedures (Include type of respirator, protective clothing,
cleanup procedures, etc.,
Comments
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36.
APPENDIX C
TO
NOTES
INSTRUCTOR
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
A. Why la reapiratory protective equipment required?
Name work area
Lilt substances
Describe activities
Describe chemical exposure
Describe areas
Name storage areas
Describe emergency situation
which could exist in your plant
I, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
OSHA has set ""i"™ exposure standards for many air-
borne toxic materials and has set standards governing specific
working environments to protect your health. A recent evalua-
tion of your working environment revealed that:
& In work areas (****), atmospheric concentrations of
substances (****) were found to be above acceptable limits.
6. UmintMmanr* activities (****) during which : ju are ex-
posed to ****) a high concentration for a abort period of
lime, lead to excessive exposure.
e Seven' areas (****) were found to be "oxygen deficient"
*tkee Appendix II)
d. Hazardous substances are stored at ("***) and if these
substances spill, etc, an emergency condition will exist, or
<••••>.
Suggested phraseology
Plan to have...
Describe what controls are to
be/being implemented
Discuss administrative controls
(routing work schedules,
spreading work over two shifts,
etc)
& Statue of Engineering Controls
(***•) Since the company recognizes that respiratory protec-
tion is not the accepted method for control of airborne
hazarda, we are taking steps to implement engineering control
solutions.
a We (••**) installed the following engineering controls
<•••?)
&. And the following administrative controls (***").
However, while the above steps are being implemented,
respiratory protection will be required.
B. Respirator Selection and Procedure
Selection procedure of the proper equipment normally involves
three steps: the identification of the hazard; the evaluation of the
hazard; and finally the selection of the appropriate respiratory
equipment baaed on the first two steps.
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39.
NOTES
TO INSTRUCTOR
Discuss only those contaminant
atmospheres representing
problems in your facility. See
following discussion.
A further discussion of ODA's
can be found in Appendix IL
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
1. Identification of the Hazard
Before we get into the "specifics" about the respiratory protec-
tive equipment you will be wearing, a few statements about
hazard identification.
There are several kinds of hazardous atmospheres which may
require the uae of respirators. (****)
a Gaseous Contaminants
Gate* are the normal form of substances like carbon di-
oxide or hydrogen sulfide. These substances are solids or li-
quids only at very low temperatures or extremely high pres-
sures. Carbon dioxide, for instance, is a gas at room tem-
perature. But it also occurs as solid "dry ice" formed at low
temperatures.
Ifcpon are exactly like gases except that they are formed by
the evaporation of substances, such as acetone or
trichlorethylene, which ordinarily occur as liquids.
b. Particulate Contaminants
Particulates are tiny particles, solid or liquid, generated by
such processes u grinding, crushing, and mixing of a com-
pound, either a solid or a liquid. There are three types of
particulates.
Dustt are solid particles produced by such processes as
grinding, crushing, and miiing of powder compounds. Ex-
amples are sand and plaster dust By comparison to the
following two types of particulates, dust particles are
usually large.
Mitts qre tiny liquid droplets, usually formed whenever a
liquid is sprayed, vigorously mixed, or otherwise agitated.
Acid mists around diptanks used for metal cleaning, and oil
mists nepr newspaper printing presses, are two examples.
Fumea are solid condensation particles of extremely small
particle size. Fumes are found in the air near soldering,
welding, and brazing operations, as well as near molten
metal processes such ss casting and galvanizing.
Two basic forms — gaseous and particulate — frequently
occur together. Paint spraying operations, for example, pro-
duce both paint mist (particulate) and solvent vapors
(gases).
a. Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres (****). Oxygen deficient
atmospheres (00A) are most commonly found in confined
spaces which have poor ventilation. Examples are silos,
petrochemical tanks, degreasers, and the holds of ships.
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40.
NOTES
TO INSTRUCTOR
After explaining to the employee
the type of hazardous
atmosphere (a and/or 6 and/or
e) requiring respiratory
protection, you should then
discuss the hazard specifics.
Check vendor literature,
toxicologic references, or
Material Safety Data Sheet (or
contact OSHA or NIOSH
regional offices).
See Figure I.
Refer to Appendix I to describe
the type instrument used
(optional).
See Appendix V.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
2. Hazard Spedfia (****)
a Hazard Name
• Organic vapor (name)
• Particulate (name)
• Gas (name)
b. Toxicity Data (••**)
See Appendix IV.
& Evaluation of the Hazard (****)
a To determine the concentration of the hazard, as iden-
tified above, measurements were made. (****) Th' con-
centration an^/or work environment examined were com-
pared with th.< published Federal Standards (****).
4. Selection of the Retpirator
a After h wu determined that respirators were requ. ed,
the Standards Completion Program (SCP) was consulted
to find out the required respiratory protection equipment
<••••).
C. Use and Proper Fitting of Respiratory Protective Equip-
ment
Using Appendix VII and
information supplied by the
manufacturer, show the
employee how to put on the
selected respirator. Show the
various components of the
respirator, and how the
respirator functions to remove
the contaminants.
At this time, you should have
available at least two different
types (different manufacturers)
of selected respiratory
equipment—for the employee
to try on.
J. Ute of Respiratory Protective Equipment
2. Proper fitting
So that respiratory protective devices, which use tight fitting
facepieces, give maximum protection, there must be a proper
"match" between the facepiece and your face. A poor face seal
can cause contaminants to be inhaled through the respirator
sealing surfaces, instead of through the canister, filter, or air
supply system. (•••*)
a. In most cases, there sre several different brands of the
same type of respiratory protection equipment approved for
use against a specific hazard or work environment (*"**)
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41.
notes employee training program
TO INSTRUCTOR
Refer to Appendix VIII for b. However, just because a respirator "feels comfortable" it
discussion of fitting tests. The does not mean that it is protecting you to the fullest extent
qualitative fit tests can be used from the hazard. The key word is proper fit. To determine if
as a quick test to ascertain the the fit is proper, several tests can be used. (****)
proper fit. However, if respirator
use will be in an extremely
hazardous atmosphere, or for
emergencies, the quantitative fit
tot should be used.
Demonstrate how the
qualitative fit test works. Show
illustration of a quantitative
test set-up (if there is not an
actual set-up on the premises).
Consult Appendix VII and the D. Limitations of Respiratory Equipment (****)
specific respiratory protective
equipment—under
Limitations. However, the rapiratory protective equipment that you will use
does have some limitations on its usage.
E. Maintenance and Storage of Respiratory Equipment
Refer to Section VII( A) for
details concerning cleaning of
equipment Several suggested
cleaning methods are given.
Discuss provisions.
Refer to Section VII(B) and
discuss storage provisions by
company.
To maintain the proper functioning of respirators requires that
they be regularly cleaned and disinfected, and stored in a conve-
nient and clear location.
J. Cleaning rmmmJ
Your respiratory protective equipment should be cleaned
daily after use. The company has made provisions for doing
this. (~~)
2. Storage (*•••)
Equipment must be stored properly at the conclusion of the
work shift.
Refer to Section VIII for
discussion on inspection for
defects.
3. Inspection for Defect* (****)
This is one of the most important functions associated with
respirator usage. These inspections can identify damage to
malfunctioning respiratory protective equipment
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42.
unTCQ
TO INSTRUCTOR
Before you discus* this section
with the user, you should first
prepare the summary—ss it
applies to your usage.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM
P. Summaryf'")
A summary of those aspects of the proper use of respiratory pro-
tective equipment Reasons for Respiratory Protective Equip-
ment.
1. Respirator Selection Procedure
a Identification of hazard.
b. Hazard specifics,
e Evaluation of the hazard.
d.. election of the respirator.
2.-*Troper Fitting and Usage
a Use.
b. Fitting.
1 Limitations
4. Maintenance and Storage
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APPENDIX D
43.
RESPIRATOR PROTECTION FACTORS'
Type Rupifiiuc
Fiecpkci'
L Air-Purifying
A. Particulate* removing
Single-use,4
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44.
'At small prnnrn'nw iffaricd by aywji luyiuor dojp (and mode of opoation) may be
drfinrd in texmi of its pcMo aoc factor (PF). The PP is a measure ofAc drgrrr of protection
afforded by a respirator, defined at Ac tuio of die fontrnffarion of contaminant in dm
ambient wnwwphmjp (has inside Ac cadoauc (anally wide Ac faceptcce) under coodi-
tioas of oac. Rapaasoa Aoald be arfacwrf to Aas Ac conummicn inhaled by Ac wearer
vS not exceed Ac appropaatt limit, The recommended respirator PFs are adectioo aad ate
f^. aa!d Aould only be Med Act Ac employer k« wnhlidifd a minima] acceptable
mpinttr ptopam as defined ia Scam I of Ac ANSI ZSS 2-1969 Standard.
•to addition to face pieces diia indadat say type of cadant or coming of Ac wearer's
breathing zone, an A aanppicdwr hooda kcbeaiOr«iB.
'liwlmki duo, miw«, ad fupa only. Does aoc apply when paes or upoa are absorbed on
particulates ad may be volatilised or for paflkalatea volatile at room temperature. Example:
4 Any aingle-aac das respkator (wiA or wiA out it t) aoc pacifically tested againR a
¦pf dfird cowiwrinanc
*Siafle-uac dust reaptntots kac Mb toted apinat aAmoa aad coor a das and could be
wiped a PP of 10 for Aoc particulates.
*Dost filter refers to a dost respirator approved by Ac aSiea dost tot. aad indudes all types
of media, Aat it, both nondegradable mechanical type media and drgradablc resin-impreg-
nated vool fdt or combination woot-cynActic feh madia.
tRuk filter refers to a fame respirator approved by Ac lead fame test. AD types of media are
iadoded.
'High-efficiency filter refers to a high
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45.
"He design of die suppfied-air hood, suit, or helmet (with a minimum of 6 dm of air) may
determine is overall efficiency and protection. For example, when working with the anas
over the head, some hoods draw the coataauaaac into the hood breathing tone. Thi* may be
overcome by wcariag a dtart hood uader a eott or ovnlb. Other findtatioas specified by the
approval agency must be eonadercd before rang ia eonia types of aoaospbcreL
"Hie SCBA operated in the poariw pressure mode has been toted on a selected 31*man
paad aad the fact piece leakage recorded as lea than 0.01% penetration. Therefore, a PF of
10,000+ a recommended. As this daw, the tow Sadt of detection 0.01% doe* not warrant
lifting a higher number. A poamc praam* SCBA for aa unknown concentration is recom-
mended. This is rmniwrnr with the 10^000* that is Bated. It is rtsrnriil to have an emergency
device for use ia unknown concentrations. A combination supplied-air respirator in piuiure-
demand or other poiiriw picam mode, with auxiliary self-contained air supply is also
recommended for use in unknown concentrations of contaminants immediately dangerous to
life. Other limitations, such ss dun absorption of HCN or tritium, must be considered.
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46.
CHECKLIST FOR INSPECTION OF PRESSURE DEMAND SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING
APPARATUS WITHOUT MODE SELECT LEVER:
PRIOR TO BEGINNING INSPECTIONt
1. Cheek to Assure that high pressure base connector is tight an
cylinder fitting
2m Bypass valve closed
J. Mainline valve closed
4. tfo caver at obstruction on regulator outlet
I. BACK PACK 6 HARNESS ASSEMBLY
A, Straps
1. Visually inspect for complete set
2m Visually inspect for frayed or damaged straps that mag
break during use
Bm Buckles
1. Visually inspect for mating ends
2. Check locking function
C. Back plate t Cylinder Lock
lm Visually inspect backplate for cracfcs and for missing
rivets or screws.
2. Visually inspect cylinder bold dam strap and physically
check strap tightener and lock to assure that it is fully
engaged
I. CYLINDER £ CYLINDER VALVE ASSEMBLY
Am Cylinder
lm Physically check cylinder to assure that it is tightly fastened
to back plate
(M) 2, Check Hydrostatic Test Date to assure it is current
(MJ 3. Visually inspect cylinder for large dents or gouges inoctal
Bm Head 6 Valve Assembly
(M) lm Visually inspect cylinder valve lock for presence
(M) 2, Visually inspect cylinder gauge for condition of face, needle,
and lens
3m Open cylinder valve and listen or feel for leakage aroung
packing. (If leakage is noted, do not use until repaired.;
Note function of valve lock
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u7.
XIX. REGULATOR S BICE PRESSURE ROSE
A. High Pressure Rose £ Connector
1. Listen or feel for leakage in hose or at bose to cylinder
connector. (Bubble in outer hose covering may be caused
by seepage of air through bose when stored under pressure,
this does not necessarily mean a faulty bose.
B. Regulator £ Low Pressure Alarm
1. Carer outlet of regulator with palm of band.¦ Open main-
line valve and read regulator gauge (oust read at least
1800 PSI and not more than rated cylinder pressureJ
2, Close cylinder valve and slowly move hand from regulator
outlet to allow slow flow of air. Gauge should begin to
show immediate loss of pressure as air flows. Low pressure
alarm should sound between 650 and 550 PSZ. Remove band
completely from outlet and close mainiin* valve.
J. Place month onto or over regulator outlet and blow. A
positive pressure should be created and maintained for
S-10 seconds without any loss of air. Next suck a slight
negative on regulator and hold for 5-10 seconds. Vacuum
should remain constant. This tests the integrity of the
diaphragm. Any loss of pressure or vacuum during this
test indicates a leak in the apparatus.
4. Open cylinder valve.
5. Place band over regulator outlet and open mainline valve.
Remove band from outlet and replaee in rapid movement.
Repeat twice. Air should escape when band is removed
each time, indicating a positive pressure in chamber.
Close mainline valve and remove band from outlet.
6. Ascertain that no obstruction is in or over the
regulator outlet. Open and close bypass valve
momentarily to assure flow of air through bypass
sy stem •
17. FACEPIECS £ CORRUGATED BRBJffRJXG TUBE
A» Face piece
1. Visually inspect bead harness for damaged serrations and
deteriorated rubber. Visually inspect rubber face piece
body for signs of deterioration or extreae distortion.
2. Visually inspect lens for proper seal in rubber facepiece,
retaining clamp properly in place, and cracks or large
scratches.
3.
Visually inspect exhalation valve for visible deterioration
or foreign materials build-up.
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48.
3. Breathing Tube £ Connector
2« Stretch Area thing tube and visually inspect /or
deterioration and holes.
2. visually inspect connector to assure good condition of
t&reads and for presence ind proper condition of *0"
ring or rubber gasket seal.
wore.* Final test of facepiece would involve a negative
pressure test for overall seal and check of
exhalation valve. If monthly inspection, jus*
may now he placed against face and following tests
performed. Xf preparing for use, don backpack,
than don facepiece and ase following procedure.
C. Negative Pressure Test eat Facepiece
1. WitA facepiece i»2d tightly to face or facepiece properly
donned, stretch breathing tube to open corrugations and
place thumb or band over end of connector. XoAaie.
Negative pressure should be created inside . ask, causing
it to pull tightly to face. This negative pressure should
be maintained for 5-10 seconds. If negative pressure J»aks
dotmt the facepiece assembly is not adequate and shoulu not
be worn.
7 o STORAGE OF UNITS
2. Cylinder refilled as necessary and unit cleaned and inspected.
2. Cylinder valve closed.
3. Sigh pressure hose connector tight on cylinder
4. Pressure bled off of high pressure hose and regulator
5. Bypass valve closed.
6. Mainline valve closed
7. All straps completely loosened and laid straight.
8. Facepiece properly stared to protect against dust, sunlight,
heat, extreme cold, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals.
ITEMS MASKED (M) would be done only on monthly inspection.
MOTS: Any Ascrepance found should be cause to set unit aside until
repair can ce done by certified repair-person.
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49.
INSPECTION AND MA.INTENA2JCZ CHECK LISTS
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Serial ffumber ¦
Issued to ¦ Date of Iaaue
location ______________
OATE
INSPECTED
cvunoai
DATE
INSPECTED
CLEANED
AMD
SANITIZED
OATE
INSPECTED
7?'-
-4^M0NTHLYJNSPECTI0M
»WEEKCY INSPECTION.
-------
50.
i
- ^INSPECTION AFTER^ACH USE ^ ^
•/:-vS^V^V
/
DATE
USED
evuNoa
OK
CYUNDCT
CHANGED
FACEPiECE
ABSCATMIN6
TUBE OK
omit
APPARATUS
••M
CLEANED
AND
SANITUED
CONNBTNWS
OK
¦MAMS
0
MBPCCTID
W' .«Y
, If ' • C-
OAT
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I
-------
APPENDS F
51.
MODEL
DOTY STATUS REPORT
1. Employee's Name .
2. Work Location ¦
3. Occupation ________________
4. Date
5. Use of Respiratory Protective Devices
a. Type of Respirator ___
b. Mode of Operation ___________________________
e. Tasks Employee will perforin
d. Visual requirements _______
e. Audio requirements
f. How long esployee is expected to wear the device
g. What substance(s) will employee be exposed to (include toxicity
data
Signature of Supervisor
Medical Surveillance
At this examination on no contraindications to die
use of the equipment described above have been identified.
Physician's Signature
------- |