This training module has been divided into several pages. At the bottom of each page is a link to the next page. At the end of the training module is a 10 question test. When you have successfully completed the test (passing score 80%), you will be prompted to fill out the training documentation form. You should print the form as it is your only confirmation as a record of training.
This training is required before you can be scheduled for a fit test.
If at any time, you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact SEM at 581-4088.
Respirator training is required for all employees who are required to wear a respirator on the job.
In an environment that presents no regulated health hazard, voluntary use of a respirator is permitted as long as it will not in itself create a hazard.
You must provide proof that you are medically able to use that respirator (in other words, you will be required to obtain a medical approval from your doctor prior to being allowed to wear a respirator). Also you must ensure that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to you.
Although a fit test is not required for voluntary use of respirators; if you would like to have a fit test of your respirator, you may contact our office at 581-4088.
If you are not required to use a respirator (by OSHA, UMaine, or your supervisor) but you choose to use one voluntarily, you do not have to complete the rest of this training module. However, you must complete the Advisory Form for Voluntary Use of Respirators and provide a copy of that form to your supervisor. Please click here to download the Advisory Form for Voluntary Use of Respirators.
If you are required to wear a respirator, please continue with this training module.
OSHA
defines a filtering facepiece (dust mask) as a "negative pressure
particulate respirator with a filter as an integral part of the facepiece
or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering medium". These
are still considered 'respirators' therefore, if your job requires you
to wear a respirator, all the required respiratory protection program
standards apply (medical, training, fit testing, etc.).
If you work in an environment that presents no regulated health hazard, and your only use of a respirator is the voluntary use of a dust mask, then you are not required to obtain a medical approval.
Respirators
are required if you work in an environment where harmful dusts, fogs,
smokes, mists, fumes, gases, vapors, or sprays are present.
If you work in an environment that has insufficient oxygen, you must contact our office for additional requirements and training.
If toxic substances are present in your workplace, and engineering controls (i.e. ventilation), work practice controls (shorter work periods), or substituting a less toxic material cannot reduce the hazard to below safe levels, you will be required to wear a respirator to protect you from these contaminants which could cause significant health hazards such as cancer, lung impairment, other diseases, or death.
First, you are required to have a medical approval from a physician or other licensed health care professional prior to being approved to wear a respirator. Wearing a respirator may place a physiological burden on the user depending on the type of respirator used, the task involved, the environment it is used in, and the person. The physician will evaluate your medical questionnaire and may also conduct a physical examination (i.e. pulmonary function test) to determine whether you are able to wear a respirator.
Contact our office at 581-4088 or our industrial hygienist at 581-4087 for more information.
A
medical evaluation may be necessary if:
- the physician determines that you need to be evaluated based on your questionnaire.
- you, your supervisor, the physician, or the respirator program administrator determines that you need to be evaluated.
- you report any medical signs or symptoms that are related to your ability to use a respirator.
- observations made during fit testing and program evaluation, indicates a need for your reevaluation.
- a change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physical work effort, protective clothing, temperature) that may result in a substantial increase in the physiological burden placed on you.
Initially and annually. The training provided in this module and by your supervisor consists of information to ensure that you can demonstrate knowledge of at least the following:
- Why the respirator
is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance can compromise
the protective effect of the respirator.
- Limitations and capabilities of the respirator.
- How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, including situations in which the respirator malfunctions.
- How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals of the respirator.
- What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator.
- How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirator.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires retraining annually, and when the following situations occur:
- Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render previous training obsolete.
- Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the respirator indicate that the employee has not retained the requisite understanding or skill.
- Any other situation arises in which retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.
If you have any questions during this training module, please don't hesitate to call us at 581-4088 or contact us.
if you have any department specific questions regarding your exposures, call our Industrial Hygenist at 581-4087