Respiratory Protection

Overview

Respiratory Protection should be managed through a planned system of work: identify the task-specific hazards, eliminate exposure where practical, use engineered or collective controls before relying on PPE, verify critical safeguards before starting, and stop the task when controls are missing or conditions change. This guide applies those principles specifically to hazard evaluation, respirator selection, fit and program controls.

Main Hazards

• • Wrong cartridge, filter or respirator type for the contaminant
• • Poor face seal caused by fit, facial hair or damaged equipment
• • Inhalation, skin, eye or ingestion exposure
• • Incompatible materials or uncontrolled release
• • Incorrect PPE selection, fit or condition

Essential Controls

1. 1Use respiratory protection only within a managed program based on the actual contaminant and exposure.
2. 2Complete required medical evaluation, fit testing, user checks, cleaning and cartridge/change controls.
3. 3Identify the exposure route and eliminate or substitute the hazard where practical.
4. 4Use engineering controls, containment and ventilation before relying on PPE alone.
5. 5Maintain clear labeling, information, training and emergency arrangements.
6. 6Select, inspect and maintain PPE for the actual hazard and exposure level.

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