A Bad Atmosphere

A Bad Atmosphere

• Can be deadly

• Requires a respirator.

Types of Hazardous Atmospheres• Deficient

• Contaminated

• Hazard determines respirator used.

Air-Purifying Respirators

• Enough oxygen in the air

• Three types:

– Particulate removing

– Vapor and gas removing

– Combination.

Supplied Air Respirators

• For oxygen-deficient atmosphere

• Two types:

– SCBA (and SCUBA)

– Air supplied from outside source.

Respiratory Protection Plan• Establishes proper procedures

for:

– Respirator selection

– Respirator use

– Respirator maintenance.

• Evaluates respiratory hazards.

Medical Evaluation

• Medical screening usually required

• Ensures you are physically able to use equipment

• Questionnaire

• Physical examination.

Fit Testing

• Tight face-to-mask seal

• Qualitative / Quantitative

• Negative / Positive pressure test.

Respirator Maintenance: InspectionCheck for:

• Holes or rips

• Broken or loose connectors and fittings

• Detergent residue or dirt

• General cleanliness.

Respirator Maintenance: CleaningSteps include:

• Disassemble mask

• Wash components

• Disinfect if needed

• Rinse and drain

• Hand dry.

Respirator Maintenance: Storage• Place in plastic bag.• Store with valves and tubes undistorted.• Protect from:

• Dust• Sunlight• Heat• Cold• Moisture• Chemicals.

Respirator maintenance is YOURresponsibility!

Review

• Hazardous atmospheres

• Types of respirators

• Respiratory protection plan

• Maintenance

• Responsibility.