Respiratory Protective Equipment
Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) safeguards the wearer from breathing in harmful substances like dusts, mists, gases and fumes. Inhaling these substances can lead to a range of health problems, including respiratory sensitisers (substances that can cause irreversible reactions in the body when repeatedly exposed) which can be fatal or life-changing. Following a risk assessment or COSHH assessment, RPE must suit the person and the task and reduce exposure to hazards sufficiently to ensure protection.
RPE can be divided into two types – respirators and breathing apparatus. Powered respirators use a motor to pass air through a filter to give the wearer a supply of breathing-quality air. Tight-fitting face pieces (often referred to as masks) are non-powered and rely on a good seal with the wearer’s face for effectiveness. The type of RPE chosen should be based on a case-by-case risk assessment and will be determined by the level of exposure, wear time and any specific requirements, such as need for spectacles.
Respiratory Protection 101: Understanding Filters, Masks, and PAPRs
Departments are responsible for implementing and maintaining their own respiratory protection programs. This includes an exposure evaluation, a written program and training for all employees who need to wear a respirator. The University Employee Health Clinic provides medical evaluations and fit testing for employees who require the use of a respirator. Departments must also maintain records of exposure evaluation, respirator selection, and fit-testing. Employers should use assigned protection factors and the information in the model written program for respiratory protection to determine the type and suitability of respirator required for each work activity.
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