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Portland State University
Respiratory Protection Program
INTRODUCTION
Wearing respiratory protective devices to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants is widespread in various industries including universities. An estimated 5.0 million workers wear respirators either occasionally or routinely. Although it is preferred practice to reduce contaminant emissions at their source (e.g., using local exhaust ventilation), there are operations where this type of control is not technologically or economically achievable or is otherwise not appropriate.
Since respirators are not as consistently reliable as ventilation or other types of source control methods, and may create additional problems, they are not the preferred method of reducing exposures below the occupational exposure levels. Accordingly, their use as a primary control is restricted to certain circumstances. In circumstances where airborne contaminant sources cannot be controlled to a level below their occupational exposure limits (e.g., certain maintenance and repair operations, emergencies, field work with animals harboring infectious biological agents, or during periods when ventilation system controls are being installed), the use of respirators is permitted for worker protection. In other circumstances, where source controls alone cannot reduce exposure levels to below the occupational exposure limits, the use of respirators would be essential for supplemental protection.
There are many variables that affect the degree of protection provided by respirators and the misuse of respirators can be hazardous to employee safety and health. Selection of the wrong equipment, one of the most frequent errors made in respiratory protection, can result in employee exposure to increased concentrations of the harmful contaminant. This error may result in a broad range of health effects caused by the harmful contaminant, including silicosis, asbestosis, airborne infectious disease, permanent lung damage, and cancer. Respirators that are not maintained and inspected can be less effective at reducing exposure to harmful contaminants, and can place a greater physical burden on the respiratory system. Respirators that are not clean can cause skin irritation or dermatitis.
These and other variables can only be controlled if a comprehensive respiratory protection program is developed and implemented in each workplace where respirators are used.
Respirators can provide adequate protection if they are properly selected for the task; are fitted to the wearer and are consistently donned and worn properly; and are properly maintained so that they continue to provide the protection required for the work situation. When respirator use is supported by an appropriate respiratory protection program, it can prevent fatalities and illnesses from both acute and chronic exposures to hazardous substances.
TABLE OF CONTENTS1.0 Purpose................................................................... 1
2.0 Scope and Application............................................1
3.0 Responsibilities........................................................1
3.1 Environmental Health & Safety
3.2 Principle Investigator, Supervisor, and Division Head
3.3 Employees
4.0 Respirator Selection............................................... 3
4.1 Evaluating Respiratory Hazards
4.2 Hazard Evaluation Update
4.3 Workplace and User Factors
4.4 Respirator Selection Update
4.5 NIOSH Certification
4.6 Assigned Protection Factors
4.7 Contaminant Breakthrough Warning System
5.0 Medical Evaluation................................................. 5
5.1 Medical Questionnaire Administration
5.2 PLHCP's Written Recommendations
5.3 Additional Medical Evaluations
6.0 Fit Testing..............................................................7
6.1 Fit Testing Procedure
6.2 Fit Testing Exercises
7.0 Respirator Use......................................................... 8
7.1 Facepiece Seal Protection
7.2 Monitoring Respirator Effectiveness
7.3 Procedures for Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) Situations
8.0 Maintenance and Care............................................9
8.1 Cleaning and Disinfecting
8.2 Storage
8.3 Inspection
8.4 Repair
9.0 Breathing Air Quality.............................................. 11
9.1 Compressors
10.0 Identification of Filters, Cartridges & Canisters...12
11.0 Training and Information.........................................12
11.1 Respiratory Protection Training Guideline
11.2 Frequency of Training
12.0 Program Evaluation............................................... 14
13.0 Recordkeeping....................................................... 14
Appendix A: Important Information about Voluntary Use of Respirators..........................16
Appendix B: Respirator Training Record............................................................................17
Appendix C: Respirator Fit Test Record.............................................................................18
Appendix D: Glossary............................................................................................................19
Appendix E: Hazard Evaluation Tables (OH&S reference only; not posted)...................22
Appendix F: Respirator Selection Table (OH&S reference only; not posted).................30
Portland State University Respiratory Protection Program
1.0 Purpose
Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) has determined that certain employees at PSU are or can be exposed to respiratory hazards. The purpose of this program is to ensure that all employees are protected from exposure to these hazards.
Engineering controls, such as, ventilation and substitution of less toxic materials are the first line of defense. However, engineering controls have not always been feasible for some of our operations or have not always completely controlled the identified hazards. In these situations, respirators and other protective equipment must be used. Respirators may also be utilized for protection during emergencies.
2.0 Scope and Application
This program applies to all employees who are required to wear respirators during normal work operations and during certain non-routine or emergency operations. Employees participating in the respiratory protection program do so at no cost to them. The expense associated with any medical evaluations, training, and respiratory protection equipment will be borne by PSU.
Employees who voluntarily choose to use a cartridge style respirator when the respirator is not required are subject to many of the elements of this program. These individuals will receive a medical evaluation as well as training covering proper procedures for cleaning, maintenance and storage of their respirators. In addition, the information specified in Appendix A: Important Information about Voluntary Use of Respirators will be provided to all voluntary users of respirators.
Employees who voluntarily choose to use a filtering facepiece respirator (i.e., a dust mask style respirator except TB respirators) are excluded from all other requirements of this program.
Note:
Voluntary use does not require employers to pay for respirators, but program costs (e.g., medical evaluations when a cartridge style respirator is used) are the responsibility of PSU.
3.0 Responsibilities
University Policy
It is the policy of PSU to maintain, insofar as it is reasonably within the control of the University to do so, an environment that will not adversely affect the health, safety, and well-being of students, employees, visitors, and neighboring human populations.
Because of the potential risks involved from the exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, PSU provides necessary respiratory protection equipment, and develops operational procedures for those employees who are required to use equipment. All activities involving the use of respiratory protection equipment, in facilities (or operations) controlled by PSU are conducted in compliance with Oregon OSHA. The PSU respiratory protection program establishes procedures and requirements to meet various enforcing agencies' regulations for use of respiratory protection equipment, and provides the necessary health and safety protection to those persons falling within the jurisdiction of the program.
3.1 Occupational Health and Safety
The Respirator Program Administrator is responsible for overseeing the respiratory protection program and to conduct the required evaluations of program effectiveness thereby ensuring that all the requirements of this program are fully implemented, as necessary.
The person designated as the Program Administrator is Chuck Cooper, Campus Health and Safety Officer.
Duties of the Program Administrator include:
3.2 Principle Investigator, Supervisor, and Division Head Responsibilities:
Principle Investigators, Supervisors and their department heads are responsible for ensuring that the respiratory protection program is implemented in their particular areas. In addition to being knowledgeable about the program requirements for their own protection, these managers must also ensure that the program is understood and followed by the employees under their charge. The duties of persons in these managerial functions include:
3.3 Employees
Each employee has the responsibility to wear his or her respirator when and where required and in the manner in which they were trained. Employees must also:
4.0 Respirator Selection
The OH&S Program Administrator is responsible for ensuring that the respirator selected will be adequate to effectively reduce exposure to the respirator user under all conditions of use including reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.
4.1 Evaluating Respiratory Hazards
The Respirator Program Administrator will select respirators to be used on-site based on the hazards to which persons are exposed and in accordance with all Oregon OSHA standards. The Program Administrator will conduct a hazard evaluation for each operation, process, or work area where airborne contaminants may be present in routine or non-routine operations or during an emergency. The hazard evaluation will include:
4.2 Hazard Evaluation Update
The Respirator Program Administrator is responsible for revising and updating hazard evaluations as needed (i.e., any time work process changes may potentially affect employee exposure). If an employee feels that respiratory protection is needed during a particular activity, (s)he is to contact Chuck Cooper at X54312. The Respiratory Program Administrator will evaluate the potential hazard. The Program Administrator will then communicate the results of that assessment back to the affected employees. If it is determined that respiratory protection is necessary, all other elements of this program will be in effect for those tasks and this program will be updated accordingly.
4.3 Workplace and User Factors
The Respirator Program Administrator will review the job operation, the equipment or tools that will be used, and any motion or travel required which can interfere with the type of respirator to be selected. When powered, air-purifying respirators or continuous-flow airline respirators are used, the physical demands affecting breathing rate will be evaluated.
The Respirator Program Administrator will ensure that respirators selected will not impair the worker's vision, hearing, communication, and physical movement necessary to perform jobs safely.
4.4 Respirator Selection Update
Respirators have been selected for protection against gases, vapors, and particulate based on established knowledge of contaminants encountered at PSU. The Respirator Program Administrator will continue to update this guide based on protection level needed for particular contaminant level encountered.
4.5 NIOSH Certification
All respirators must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and shall be used in accordance with the terms of that certification. All filters, cartridges, and canisters must be labeled with the appropriate NIOSH approval label. The label must not be removed or defaced while it is in use.
4.6 Assigned Protection Factors
The assigned protection factors will be used in the determination of appropriate respiratory protection. For example, half-face respirators can provide adequate protection for routine respirator use, where employee exposures do not exceed ten times the permissible exposure limit. The Respirator Program Administrator will determine the type of respirator to be selected for non-routine or reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.
Note:
The assigned protection factor (APF) is a numeric rating given to respirators and tells you how much protection the respirator can provide. The APF for half-facepiece (half-mask) respirators is Ò10. Example: A half-mask respirator could be selected for an employee exposed to 1000 ppm toluene vapor, the OR-OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) for toluene being 100 ppm. The protection factor for half-mask respirators is ten times the exposure level or up to 1000 ppm toluene, in this example.
4.7 Contaminant Breakthrough Warning Systems
For employees using cartridges, North Safety EZ Guide software will be used by the Program Administrator to calculate usable life of chemical cartridges to guide filter replacement. Cartridge color identification will be in accordance with OR-OSHA.
For respirators worn exclusively for protection against particles, filters will be changed per the manufacturer's specification and whenever the wearer detects a change in breathing resistance.
5.0 Medical EvaluationAny employee refusing the medical evaluation cannot work in an area requiring respirator use.
Employees voluntarily using filtering face piece respirators (dust masks) and employees using loose fitting escape-only respirators (provided that is the only respirator used) are exempt from the requirements of the medical evaluation program.
The Kaiser Permanente Occupational Health Clinic will provide initial and any follow-up medical evaluations for the general campus. Student Health Services (SHS) staff will be assessed in-house.
5.1 Medical Questionnaire Administration
Employees (other than SHS) assigned to tasks requiring the use of respirators will be required to complete the ÒKaiser Permanente Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire. The Program Administrator will make available a copy of the questionnaire to all employees requiring medical evaluations. The medical evaluation will be administered confidentially and during working hours at a place on site that is convenient to employees. When completed, the questionnaire should be returned to Chuck Cooper for faxing/mailing to the Kaiser Occupational Health Clinic. (Once these questionnaires are faxed they will be shredded to maintain confidentially). Employees will be paid their prevailing wages during questionnaire administration.
To the extent feasible for maintaining confidentiality, the Program Administrator will arrange help for employees who are unable to read the questionnaire. The Program Administrator will not review completed questions and there will be no employee/employer interaction that could be considered a breach of confidentiality.
Subsequent to completion of the medical questionnaire, Chuck Cooper will coordinate follow-up physical exams for employees. All records from medical evaluations, including completed questionnaires, will remain confidential between the employee and the PLHCP.
5.2 PLHCP's Written Recommendations
PSU will obtain a written recommendation from Kaiser on whether/or not an employee is medically able to wear a respirator. The recommendation must identify any limitations on the employee's use of the respirator, as well as the need for periodic or future medical evaluations that are required by the PLHCP.
A powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) will be provided to any employee if information from the PLHCP's written recommendation indicates that the employee can use a PAPR but not a negative pressure respirator. If, subsequent to this evaluation, the PLHCP determines that the employee is able to wear a negative pressure respirator, PSU will no longer be required to provide a PAPR to that employee.
The employee will receive a copy of the PLHCP's written recommendations directly from the PLHCP. Information concerning diagnosis, test results, or other confidential medical information will not be disclosed to PSU by the PLHCP.
5.3 Additional Medical Evaluations
PSU will arrange for additional medical evaluation or medical re-evaluation for any employee when:
The content of such additional medical evaluations will be determined by the PLHCP.
6.0 Fit Testing
Fit testing will be required for all respirators with a tight-fitting facepiece, as well as N-95 disposable respirators used for TB/SARS protection. Fit testing will be performed:
Employees will be fit tested with the make, model, and size of respirator that they will actually wear. OH&S will work with employees to find a respirator providing the best fit with the greatest comfort.
If for any reason an employee finds that the respirator fit is unacceptable, a reasonable opportunity to select a different facepiece and to be retested will be provided.
Employees who voluntarily choose to use air-purifying respirators are not required to be fit tested. However, Occupational Health & Safety will provide fit testing for voluntary users upon request.
The form in Appendix C: Respirator Fit Test records will be used to document respirator fit testing for general users (non-SHS staff).
6.1 Fit Testing Procedure
Occupational Health & Safety will conduct fit testing. It has been determined that employee exposures will not exceed airborne concentrations in excess of 10 times the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), therefore qualitative fit tests can be conducted on all negative pressure respirators. If conditions affecting exposure levels change, the Program Administrator will evaluate whether quantitative fit testing is required.
Fit testing will be administered by using the OR-OSHA-accepted qualitative fit test protocols found in OAR 437-002-0134 Appendix A-1: General Fit Testing Requirements for Respiratory Protection and Appendix A-2: Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT) Protocols for Respiratory Protection. The qualitative fit test protocols that will be used at Portland State University are either the saccharin or irritant smoke.
6.2 Fit Testing Exercises
When qualitative fit tests are to be conducted, the Respirator Program Administrator will ensure that the test exercises described in OAR 437-002-0134 are performed.
While a fit test is in progress, the respirator must not be adjusted.
Employees will perform fit test exercises in the test environment while wearing other safety equipment that will be worn during actual respirator use that could interfere with respirator fit.
If the employee exhibits breathing difficulty during the fit test, s/he will be referred to the PHLCP to determine whether a respirator can be worn while performing his or her duties.
7.0 Respirator Use
The Respirator Program Administrator, in collaboration with managers, supervisors, and principal investigators, will monitor the work area in order to be aware of changing conditions where employees are using respirators.
7.1 Facepiece Seal Protection
PSU will not permit respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who have conditions that would compromise the facepiece-to-face seal. Examples of these conditions include facial hair (e.g., stubble, bangs) that interferes with the facepiece seal or valve function, absence of normally worn dentures, facial deformities (e.g., scars, deep skin creases, prominent cheekbones), or the use of jewelry or headgear that projects under the facepiece seal.
Corrective glasses or goggles, or other personal protective equipment, must be worn in such a way that they do not interfere with the seal of the facepiece to the face. Full-facepiece respirators will be provided where either corrective glasses or eye protection is required, since corrective lenses can be mounted inside a full-facepiece respirator. The use of contact lenses with respirators where the wearer has successfully worn such lenses before will be allowed.
A user seal check (also known as a fit check) will be performed every time a tight-fitting respirator is put on or adjusted to ensure proper seating of the respirator to the face (including N-95 respirators used for protection against TB). The user seal check conducted must be either the positive and/or negative pressure checks described in OAR 437-002-0134 ÒUser Seal Check Procedures, or the manufacturer's recommended procedures when equally protective.
7.2 Monitoring Respirator Effectiveness
The OH&S Program Administrator and/or Supervisors (foreperson, lead, PI, etc.) will be responsible for maintaining appropriate surveillance of changes in work area conditions that may increase employee exposure or stress.
Employees will be permitted to leave the respirator use area to wash their faces and respirator facepieces as needed to prevent skin or eye irritation associated with respirator use.
Whenever the respirator user can detect vapor or gas breakthrough (by odor, taste, and/or irritation effects), a change in breathing resistance or leakage of the facepiece, the employee will be allowed to leave the respirator use area to replace the respirator or the filter, cartridge, or canister elements.
Employees will be permitted to leave the respirator use area if they are replacing cartridge or canister elements according to the established replacement.
Employees will be permitted to leave the respirator use area if the respirator is not properly functioning and must be replaced, repaired, or discarded. The employee will be allowed back into the respirator use area only after the respirator has been replaced or repaired.
Employees will be permitted to leave the respirator use area if the employee experiences severe discomfort in wearing the respirator or if the employee experiences sensations of dizziness, nausea, weakness, breathing difficulty, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, fever, and chills.
7.3 Procedures for Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) Situations
Atmospheres are IDLH when they pose an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would interfere with an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
The Respirator Program Administrator will identify areas as presenting the potential for IDLH conditions. Procedures will be found in the Operations Plan of the responsible department.
8.0 Maintenance and Care
The Program Administrator will oversee the maintenance and care program.
8.1 Cleaning and Disinfecting
Respirators will be cleaned and disinfected by individual users using the procedures in OAR 437-002-0134 Appendix B-2: Respirator Cleaning Procedures. The respirator manufacturer's cleaning procedures may be used if they are equivalent in effectiveness as Appendix B-2.
Respirators will be cleaned and disinfected as follows:
8.2 Storage
Respirators will be stored so that they are protected against damage, contamination, dust, sunlight, temperature extremes, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals. When respirators are packed or stored, the facepiece and exhalation valve will be stored in a manner that prevents deformation. Each respirator should be positioned so that it retains its natural configuration.
The Program Administrator is responsible for ensuring that respirators intended for emergency use will be kept accessible to the work area. Emergency use respirators will not be kept in any area that might itself be involved in the emergency because such an area may become contaminated or inaccessible. Emergency use respirators will be stored in compartments or covers that are clearly marked to indicate that they contain emergency respirators and stored according to any applicable manufacturer instructions.
Emergency respirators will be readily available for use and will be stored in compartments labeled "FOR EMERGENCY USE ONLY" outside of the room or building, as applicable.
The Program Administrator will ensure that an adequate number of respirators are provided each work area where they are needed.
8.3 Inspection
Respirators used in routine situations will be inspected before each use and during cleaning.
Respirators designated for use in an emergency situation will be inspected at least monthly and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and checked for proper function before and after each use. Emergency escape-only respirators must be inspected before being carried into the workplace.
Respirator inspections will include a check of respirator function, tightness of connections, and the condition of the various parts including but not limited to: the facepiece, head straps, valves, connecting tube, and cartridges, canisters, or filters. In addition, the elastomeric parts must be evaluated for pliability and signs of deterioration.
Respirators that are maintained for use in emergencies will be certified by documenting the date that the inspection was performed, the name or signature of the inspector, the findings of the inspection, any required remedial action, and a serial number or other means of identifying the inspected respirator. This information will be provided on the tag/label that is attached to the storage compartment for the respirator.
8.4 Repair
The Program Administrator will ensure that respirators that fail to pass inspection or are otherwise found to be defective will be removed from service and repaired or adjusted properly. If a respirator cannot be repaired or adjusted it will be discarded.
Repairs or adjustments to respirators will be done by Chuck Cooper. Only NIOSH-approved manufacturer's replacement parts designed for that respirator will be used. Repairs will be made in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications regarding the type and extent of repairs to be performed.
9.0 Breathing Air Quality
There are currently no atmosphere-supplying respirators used on the PSU campus.
9.1 Compressors
Compressors used for supplying breathing air must be constructed and situated so contaminated air cannot enter the air-supply system. The location of the air intake will be in an uncontaminated area where exhaust gases from nearby vehicles, the internal combustion engine that is powering the compressor itself (if applicable), or other contaminants being ventilated will not be picked up by the compressor air intake.
Compressors will be equipped with suitable in-line, air-purifying sorbent beds and filters to further ensure breathing air quality and to minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure is 10¡F (5.56¡C) below the ambient temperature. Sorbent beds and filters will be maintained and replaced or refurbished periodically according to the manufacturer's recommendations. An inspection tag will be kept at the compressor indicating the most recent change date and the signature of a Program Administrator or designee authorized to perform the maintenance.
Only non-oil-lubricated compressors will be used at PSU.
The Program Administrator will ensure that the compressor intake will not allow the introduction of carbon monoxide greater than 10 parts per million (ppm) into the system. Note: This could be from sources other than the compressor such as forklifts/vehicles or other gas powered equipment. Where this is not possible or feasible, it may be necessary to combine the use of a carbon monoxide alarm with a carbon monoxide sorbent bed when conditions are such that a reliable carbon monoxide-free area for air intake cannot be found.
Breathing air couplings must be incompatible with outlets for non-respirable plant air or other gas systems to prevent accidental servicing of airline respirators with non-respirable gases or oxygen.
10.0 Identification of Filters, Cartridges & Canisters
The Program Administrator will ensure that all filters, cartridges, and canisters used in the workplace are labeled and color-coded with the NIOSH approval label, and ensure that the label is not removed and remains legible.
11.0 Training and Information
Chuck Cooper will provide training to respirator users, supervisors, and any person issuing respirators on the contents of PSUs Respiratory Protection Program and their responsibilities under it, and on the Oregon OSHA respiratory protection standard.
Employees will be trained prior to using a respirator in the workplace. Supervisors (including PIs) will be trained prior to using a respirator in the workplace or prior to supervising employees who wear respirators.
Employees who voluntarily use filtering facepiece (dust mask other than for TB exposure control) respirators are exempt from the training requirements. Voluntary users of elastomeric air-purifying respirators will receive training.
The information specified in ÒAppendix A, Important Information about Voluntary Use of Respirators will be provided all voluntary users of respirators
11.1 Respiratory Protection Training Guideline
The Respiratory Protection Training course materials will cover the following information:
Information regarding the consequences of improper fit, usage, or maintenance on respirator effectiveness will be provided to employees. Inadequate attention to any of these program elements would obviously defeat the effectiveness of the respirator. Proper fit, usage, and maintenance of respirators are critical to ensure employee protection.
Employees will be provided an explanation of the limitations and capabilities of the respirator selected for employee use. A discussion of the limitations and capabilities of the respirator will address how the respirator operates. Training will include an explanation of how the respirator provides protection by either filtering the air, absorbing the vapor or gas, or providing clean air from an uncontaminated source, as applicable. Training will include limitations on the use of the equipment such as prohibitions against using an air-purifying respirator in IDLH atmospheres and an explanation of why such a respirator must not be used in these situations.
Employees will be provided an explanation to understand how to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations including those in which the respirator malfunctions. Comprehensive training will be provided where respirators are used in potentially IDLH situations such as those that may occur in gas chlorine leak.
Training will include the procedures for inspecting the respirator, donning and removing it, checking the fit and respirator seal, and actually wearing the respirator. Employees will be capable of recognizing any problems that may threaten the continued protective capability of the respirator. The training will include the steps employees are to follow if they discover any problems during inspection, that is, to whom the problems are to be reported and where they can obtain replacement equipment if necessary.
Instructions will be given to respirator users regarding the proper procedures for maintenance and storage of respirators.
Employees will be provided with medical information that is sufficient for them to recognize the signs and symptoms of medical conditions (e.g., shortness of breath, dizziness) that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirators.
Employees will be informed of the general requirements of the OR-OSHA respiratory protection standard. This discussion will inform employees that employers are obligated to develop a written program, properly select respirators, evaluate respirator use and correct deficiencies in use, conduct medical evaluations, provide for the maintenance, storage, and cleaning of respirators, and retain and provide access to specific records.
Employees will demonstrate their understanding of the information covered in the training through hands-on exercises. The Program Administrator will document respirator training and the documentation will include the type, model, and size of respirator for which each employee has been trained and fit tested. The form in ÒAppendix B: Respirator Training Record will be used to document employee training for general users (non-SHS staff).
11.2 Frequency of Training
New employees will be provided respirator training prior to using a respirator in the workplace.
Employees will be retrained annually and more often as needed (e.g., if they change area/location/position and need to use a different respirator).
Retraining will occur if the Program Administrator or Supervisor determines that any employee has not retained or demonstrated the knowledge, understanding, or skill level required by the company's training program
12.0 Program Evaluation
The Program Administrator is responsible for conducting evaluations of the workplace, as necessary. Periodic program evaluation is required to ensure that the provisions of the respiratory protection program are being implemented for all employees using respirators. In addition, evaluations will be conducted to ensure the continued effectiveness of the program. Evaluations of the workplace will determine whether the correct respirators are being used and worn properly and will also serve to determine whether the training program is effective.
Supervisors are responsible to periodically monitor employee use of respirators to ensure that they are being used and worn properly.
The Program Administrator will regularly consult with employees wearing respirators to ascertain the employees' views on program effectiveness and to identify any problems so that corrective action can be taken.
The following factors will be evaluated to determine program effectiveness:
The Program Administrator will be responsible for correcting any problems associated with wearing a respirator that are identified by employees or that are revealed during any other part of this evaluation.
13.0 Recordkeeping
The Program Administrator will retain a copy of the PLHCP's written recommendation for each employee subject to medical evaluation. Each employee's completed medical questionnaire, results of relevant medical tests, examinations, and diagnosis, etc., will be maintained by the PHLCP for a period of 30 years.
The Program Administrator will retain fit test records for respirator users until the next fit test is administered. The form in ÒAppendix C: Respirator Fit Test Record will be used to document employee fit testing.
The Program Administrator will retain employee-training records that include the names of employees trained and the dates when training was conducted.
The Program Administrator will keep a current copy of the Portland State University
respiratory protection program in Facilities (hard copy) and it is available on line at www.FAC.pdx.edu/safety. All written materials required to be maintained under the record keeping requirements will be made available, upon request, to the employee who is the subject of the records and to the director or the director's designee of the Oregon State Department of Labor and Industries for examination and copying.
Appendix A: Important Information about Voluntary Use of Respirators
What must PSU do when employees choose to wear respirators when respirators are not required?
(1) PSU may provide respirators at the request of employees or permit employees to use their own respirators, if the Respirator Program Administrator determines that such respirator use will not in itself create a hazard.
(2) If the Program Administrator determines that any voluntary respirator use is permissible, PSU must provide the respirator users with the following information:
Figure 1. Important Information About Voluntary Use of Respirators |
Note: You and your mean the respirator user in the following information. |
Respirators protect against airborne contaminants when properly selected and worn. Respirator use is encouraged, even when exposure to contaminants are below the exposure limit(s), to provide an additional level of comfort and protection for workers. However, if a respirator is used improperly or not kept clean, the respirator itself can become a hazard to you. Sometimes, workers may wear respirators to avoid exposures to hazards, even if the amount of hazardous contaminants (chemical & biological) does not exceed the limits set by OR-OSHA standards. If PSU provides respirators for your voluntary use, or if you are allowed to provide your own respirator, you need to take certain precautions to be sure that the respirator itself does not present a hazard. |
You should do the following: |
1. Read and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer on use, maintenance, cleaning and care, and warnings regarding the respirators limitations. |
2. Choose respirators certified for use to protect against the contaminant of concern. NIOSH, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, certifies respirators. A label or statement of certification should appear on the respirator or respirator packaging. It will tell you what the respirator is designed for and how much it will protect you. |
3. Do not wear your respirator into atmospheres containing contaminants for which your respirator is not designed to protect against. For example, a respirator designed to filter dust particles will not protect you against solvent vapor or smoke (since smoke particles are much smaller than dust particles). |
4. Keep track of your respirator so that you do not mistakenly use someone else's respirator. |
Appendix B: Respirator Training Record (General Users)Required Areas For Discussion:
Employee's Statement: The above items have been discussed with me. I understand how the respirator operates, provides protection, and the limitations. I understand the instructions relevant to use, cleaning, and disinfecting the respiratory device(s) I will use. Employee Signature_______________________________________Date ___________________ Comments: Fit Tester/Trainer Signature ____________________________ Date ____________________ Copies kept in employee file and EH&S (12-11-02) |
APPENDIX C: Respirator Fit Test Record (General Users) Employee ID# ___________________ Date of Birth ____________________
Portland State University Today's Date ___________________ Empolyee'sName _________________________ Contact phone number: _____________________________ Department:____________________ Supervisor:____________________Position: _________________________
Limitations: Type Respirator: Fit Testing Required Fit Testing Not Required
Respirator Model Number: ______________________ NIOSH Approval Number: TC-___________________ Positive Fit Check: ____ Yes ____ No Negative Fit Check: ____ Yes ____ No Fit Test Outcome: ___ Pass ___ Fail Employee's Statement: I understand that my use of this respirator must be in accordance with PSU rules, manufacturer's instructions and applicable OR-OSHA regulations and standards. Employee Signature____________________________________ Date____________________ |
Appendix D: Glossary
Air-purifying respirator a respirator with an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or canister that removes specific air contaminants by passing ambient air through the air-purifying element.
Assigned protection factor (APF) the expected level of workplace protection provided by a properly functioning respirator worn by properly fitted and trained individuals. It describes the ratio of the ambient concentration of an airborne substance to the concentration of the substance inside the respirator.
Atmosphere-supplying respirator a respirator that supplies the respirator user with breathing air from a source independent of the ambient atmosphere, and includes supplied-air respirators (SAR's) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.
Canister or cartridge a container with a filter, sorbent, or catalyst, or a combination of these items, that removes specific contaminants from the air passed through the container.
Demand respirator an atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece only when a negative pressure is created inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Emergency situation any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment that may or does result in an uncontrolled substantial release of an airborne contaminant.
Employee exposure an exposure to a concentration of an airborne contaminant that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protection.
End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) a system that warns the respirator user of the approach of the end of adequate respiratory protection; for example, that the sorbent is approaching saturation or is no longer effective.
Escape-only respirator a respirator intended to be used only for emergency exit.
Filtering facepiece (dust mask) a negative pressure particulate respirator with a filter as an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering medium.
Filter or air-purifying element a component used in respirators to remove solid or liquid aerosols from the inspired air.
Fit factor a quantitative estimate of the fit of a particular respirator to a specific individual, and typically estimates the ratio of the concentration of a substance in ambient air to its concentration inside the respirator when worn.
Fit test the use of a protocol to qualitatively or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual. See also "Qualitative fit test (QLFT)" and "Quantitative fit test (QNFT)."
Helmet a rigid respiratory inlet covering that also provides head protection against impact and penetration.
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter a filter that is at least 99.97% efficient in removing monodisperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter and larger. The equivalent NIOSH 42 CFR part 84 particulate filters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.
Hood a respiratory inlet covering that completely covers the head and neck, and may also cover portions of the shoulders and torso.
Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) an atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
Interior structural firefighting the physical activity of fire suppression, rescue or both, inside of buildings or enclosed structures that are involved in a fire situation beyond the incipient stage.
Loose-fitting facepiece a respiratory inlet covering that is designed to form a partial seal with the face.
Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting) a respirator in which the air pressure inside the facepiece is negative during inhalation with respect to the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere an atmosphere with oxygen content below 19.5% by volume.
Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) an individual whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some or all of the health care services required by WAC 296-62-07150, "Medical evaluation." In Washington State, physicians (MD or DO), physicians assistants (PA) or nurse practitioners (ARNP) qualify to be designated as a PLHCP.
Positive-pressure a respirator in which the pressure inside the respiratory inlet covering exceeds the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) an air-purifying respirator that uses a blower to force the ambient air through air-purifying elements to the inlet covering.
Pressure demand respirator a positive pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece when the positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Qualitative fit test (QLFT) a pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of respiratory fit that relies on the individual's response to the test agent.
Quantitative fit test (QNFT) an assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator.
Respiratory inlet covering the portion of a respirator that forms the protective barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifying device or breathing air source, or both. It may be a facepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with nose clamp.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the breathing air source is designed to be carried by the user.
Service life the period of time that a respirator, filter or sorbent or other respiratory equipment provides adequate protection to the wearer.
Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respirator an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the source of breathing air is not designed to be carried by the user.
Tight-fitting facepiece a respiratory inlet covering that forms a complete seal with the face.
User seal check an action conducted by the respirator user to determine if the respirator is properly seated to the face.