THE ORCBS > Occupational Safety > Programs & Guidelines > Respiratory Protection > Respiratory Protection Program >

RESPIRATOR PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS - CONTINUING RESPIRATOR EFFECTIVENESS

Appropriate surveillance shall be maintained of work area conditions and degree of employee exposure or stress. When there is a change in work area conditions or degree of employee exposure or stress that may affect respirator effectiveness, the employer shall reevaluate the continued effectiveness of the respirator.

The respirator wearer shall leave the respirator use area when the following conditions are met or needed:

1. To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as necessary to prevent eye or skin irritation associated with respirator use.
2. If vapor or gas breakthrough is detected, if there is a change in breathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece
3. To replace the respirator of the filter, cartridge or canister elements

If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance or leakage of the facepiece, the employer must replace or repair the respirator before allowing the employee to return to the work area.

Respirator Cleaning and Maintenance

Respiratory Protection Program