RESPIRATORY PROTECTION TOOLBOX TALK
Control airborne hazards with the correct respirator, filter and fit.
Contaminant type, filter selection and fit-test verification.
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Toolbox Topic
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION TOOLBOX TALK
Duration
8–10 minutes
Date
Site / Area
Supervisor
Company
Participants
Document No
OBJECTIVE
Ensure correct respiratory protection is selected and used to reduce health risks from dusts, fumes, gases, vapours and other airborne contaminants.
WHY IT MATTERS
No respirator protects against every hazard. Filter selection must match the contaminant.
Facial hair, poor fitting or damaged seals can significantly reduce protection.
Respiratory protection does not replace engineering controls; ventilation and source control remain priorities.
REALISTIC SITE SCENARIO
A worker entered a dusty area using the wrong particulate filter and a poorly fitted mask.
Facial hair interfered with the seal and the worker received significant exposure.
Hazard identification, correct filter selection, fit testing and a clean-shaven seal area would have prevented the exposure.
REMEMBER
If the fit is poor, the respirator cannot provide the intended protection.
KEY HAZARDS
Incorrect respirator selection.
Incorrect filter or cartridge.
No valid fit test.
Facial hair at the seal.
Damaged face seal.
Saturated or expired filters.
Inadequate ventilation.
Use in oxygen-deficient atmospheres.
CONTROLS
Identify the airborne contaminant.
Select the correct respirator and filter.
Confirm fit-test validity.
Keep the seal area free from facial hair.
Perform a user seal check before use.
Follow the filter change schedule.
Clean and store respirators correctly.
Remove damaged equipment from service.
Provide adequate ventilation.
Do not enter oxygen-deficient atmospheres without suitable supplied-air protection.
SUPERVISOR MESSAGE
Team, if respiratory protection is required today, we will first identify the hazard and correct filter. Fit testing must be valid, the seal area must be clean-shaven and a user seal check will be completed before use.
TEAM QUESTIONS
What is today's respiratory hazard?
Which filter or cartridge is required?
Is the fit test valid?
Is facial hair affecting the seal?
When will the filter be changed?
Is ventilation adequate?
FIELD VERIFICATION
Contaminant identified
Respirator suitable
Filter suitable
Fit test valid
Seal area clear
Seal check completed
Filter life suitable
Respirator intact
Ventilation adequate
Crew briefed
ATTENDANCE AND APPROVAL
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Supervisor Signature
HSE Approval
SERNEM HSE Resource – Permit conditions, risk assessments and site procedures take priority.