Safety Tidbit 6.11 – The Need for Respirator Training

 

Safety Tidbit 6.11 – The Need for Respirator Training

 

References:     OSHA - 1910.134 - Respiratory Protection

 

This Safety Tidbit was written by my student, Mr. Da’Von Bradley – a junior in the Public Health Program at the Indiana University of PA graduating Spring 2022.

 

Respirators are a form of personal protective equipment (PPE) to help reduce the risk of exposure to airborne chemical hazards. Respirators should only be provided to an employee when necessary. For effective use of a respirator, the active safety manager is responsible for selecting the proper respirator for the worker depending on the hazard. These hazards can be in the form of vapors, gases, dust, or mists. The safety manager implements Respiratory protection programs to improve the workplace. After medical clearance and selecting the proper respirator, the worker must complete the proper training before using the respirator. The training must be understanding for the worker to complete to the best of their ability. Training includes:

• Why it is essential to use a respirator correctly 
• When to use a respirator 
• How to use the respirator in emergencies, including situations where the respirator malfunctions
• Explanation on respirator's capabilities and limitations
• How to thoroughly inspect, put on, use, and remove.
• How to Properly clean and store after use 
• How to recognize medical conditions can impact the wearer 

 

OSHA states, "An employer who can demonstrate that a new employee has received training within the last 12 months that addresses the elements specified in paragraph (k)(1)(i) through (vii) is not required to repeat such training provided that, as required by paragraph (k)(1), the employee can demonstrate knowledge of those element(s). Previous training not repeated initially by the employer must be provided no later than 12 months from the date of the previous training." [1910.134(k)(4)]

 

The safety manager must provide respirator training annually, when workplace conditions change, or when the worker must use a different type of respirator. More frequent retraining may be necessary more when the worker demonstrates inadequacies in their use and knowledge.

 

I hope this was helpful and thank you for reading my Safety Tidbits! Comments and questions are always welcome. ~ Bryan

 

P.S. If you have a new safety or health question, please let me know.