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RESPIRATOR PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS - CARTRIDGE AND FILTER SELECTION AND USAGE

Cartridges and filters are currently named under 42 CFR 84. This standard creates nine new classes of filters. The series are referred to as N, R and P.

The 100 series were formally called HEPA under 30 CFR 11.

The length of time a cartridge will protect against contaminants is dependent on various factors which include:

a) Hazards present

b) Contaminant concentration

c) Breathing rate

d) Humidity

e) Temperature

If a cartridge does not have an end of service life indicator, the ORCBS will develop a cartridge change-out schedule based on the above considerations and data that will insure that canisters and cartridges are changed before the end of their service life. This information will be obtained from the manufacturers test data and distributed to wearers at the time of fit testing or refit testing, and as needed. Particulate cartridge change-out schedule will be based on increased breathing resistance.

Training

Respiratory Protection Program