Friday, June 12, 2015

Respirators When Not Required-On the Job Tool Box Talks

Download the RMA Sign In Sheet. DOC Format
 

Download the RMA Sign In Sheet. PDF Format
 

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Respirators are an effective method of protection against designated hazards when properly selected and worn. Respirator use is encouraged, even when exposures are below the exposure limit, 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 the worker. Sometimes, workers may wear respirators to avoid exposures to hazards, even if the amount of hazardous substance does not exceed the limits set by OSHA standards. If your employer provides respirators for your voluntary use, or if you provide your own respirator, you need to take certain precautions to be sure that the respirator itself does not present a hazard.

When using a respirator, do the following:
1.  Read and heed 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  again st  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 gases, vapors, or very small solid particles of fumes or smoke.
4.  Keep  track  of  your  respirator  so  that  you  do  not  mistakenly  use  someone else's respirator.

This information is provided by: Construction Safety Council

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