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S Step 7 Inspect, Clean, Maintain, & Store Respiratorstep 7 Inspect, Clean, Maintain, & Store Respirators

Routine Respirator Inspection
Routine Respirator Inspection able respirator to determine whether it is func-
Introduction tional and has structural integrity. If the filter
Introduction
material is physically damaged or soiled, dis-
Scrupulous respirator inspection and maintenance card the respirator. Also discard the respirator if
must be an integral part of the overall respirator there are nicks, abrasions, cuts, or creases in the
program. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions facepiece-to-face sealing material.
for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance to ensure
that the respirator continues to function properly. B. Check the respirator straps to be sure
Wearing poorly maintained or malfunctioning res- they are not cut or otherwise damaged. The
pirators may be more dangerous than not wearing straps should be attached at all connection
a respirator at all. The worker who wears a defec- points.
tive device may falsely assume that protection is be-
ing provided. C. Make sure that the metal nose clip (if
applicable) is in place and functions correctly.
The OSHA respirator regulations require the fol-
lowing [29 CFR 1910.139]: D. Make sure that the respirator is
NIOSH approved (NIOSH approval will be
1. [b] (7) Respirators used routinely shall be in- marked on the filter, filter package, or respirator
spected during cleaning. Worn or deteriorated box).
parts shall be replaced. Respirators for emergency
use such as self-contained devices shall be thor-
oughly inspected at least once a month after each Inspect replaceable filter half-mask
use. respirators as follows:

2. (f) (2) (i) All respirators shall be inspected rou- A. Check the integrity of the facepiece to be
tinely before and after each use. A respirator that is sure it is not cut, torn, modified, deteriorated, or
not routinely used but is kept ready for emergency dirty. The elastomer should not be abraded, and
use shall be inspected after each use and at least the sealing surface should be smooth and undam-
monthly to assure that it is in satisfactory working aged.
conditions.

3. (f) (2) (iii) Respirator inspection shall include a
check of the tightness of connections and the condi-
tion of the facepiece, headbands, valves, connecting Check
tube, and canisters. Rubber or elastomer parts shall straps and
be inspected for pliability and signs of deterioration. buckles.
Stretching and manipulating rubber or elastomer
parts with a massaging action will keep them pli- Photo
able and flexible and prevent them from taking a courtesy of
“set” during storage. NIOSH.

Andnd
Beforeefore
I Inspectionnspection B A A B. Check to see that the straps on the respi-
Afterfter
Eachach
E U rator are elastic, pliable, and have not been knotted
Usese
to shorten them. The buckles and any attachment
must be present and working correctly.
Inspect disposable half-mask respirators
as follows:
C. Inspect the inhalation and exhalation
A. Examine the facepiece of the dispos- valves to see that they are in place and pliable,
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