Heard at the May 21, 1998 Public Hearing
Adopted on June 18, 1998
Approved by OAL on August 25, 1998
Effective November 23, 1998
Final Start-Up Date on May 22, 1999
Amend Section 1529, Asbestos to read:
§ 1529. Asbestos.
* * *
(h) Respiratory protection.
(1) General. The employer shall provide respirators, and ensure that they are
used, where required by this section. Respirators shall be used in the following
circumstances: For employees who use respirators required by this section, the
employer must provide respirators that comply with the requirements of this subsection.
Respirators must be used during:
(A) During all Class I asbestos work jobs.
(B) During all Class II asbestos work where the ACM is not
removed in a substantially intact state,
(C) During all Class II and III asbestos work which is not
performed using wet methods, provided, however, that respirators need not be worn
during except for removal of ACM from sloped roofs when a negative
exposure assessment has been made and the ACM is removed in an intact state.
(D) During all Class II and III asbestos jobs where the
employer does not produce work for which a "negative exposure
assessment" has not been conducted.
(E) During all Class III jobs where asbestos work
when TSI or surfacing ACM or PACM is being disturbed.
(F) During all Class IV asbestos work performed within
regulated areas where employees performing other work are required to wear
use respirators.
(G) During all w Work operations covered
by this section where employees are exposed above the TWA or excursion limit.
(H) In e Emergencies.
(2) Respirator program.
(A) The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 5144 (b) through (d) (except (d)(1)(C)), and (f) through (m).
(B) No employee shall be assigned to asbestos work that requires respirator use if, based on their most recent medical examination, the examining physician determines that the employee will be unable to function normally while using a respirator, or that the safety or health of the employee or other employees will be impaired by the employee’s respirator use. Such employees must be assigned to another job or given the opportunity to transfer to a different position that they can perform. If such a transfer position is available, it must be with the same employer, in the same geographic area, and with the same seniority, status, rate of pay, and other job benefits the employee had just prior to such transfer.
(3) Respirator selection.
(A) Where respirators are used, t The employer shall select and
provide, at no cost to the employee, the appropriate respirator as specified in
Table 1 or in subsection (h)(2)(C) of this section, and shall ensure that the
employee uses the respirator provided.
TABLE 1
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION FOR ASBESTOS FIBERS
Airborne concentration
of asbestos or Required respirator
conditions of use
Not in excess of 1 f/cc Half-mask air purifying respirator
(10 X PEL), or otherwise other than a disposable respirator,
as required independent equipped with high efficiency
of exposure pursuant to filters.
(h)(2)(D)of this section.
Not in excess of 5 f/cc Full facepiece air-purifying
(50 X PEL). respirator equipped with high
efficiency filters.
Not in excess of 10 f/cc Any powered air-purifying
(100 X PEL). respirator equipped with high
efficiency filters or any
supplied air respirator operated
in continuous flow mode.
Not in excess of 100 f/cc Full facepiece supplied air
(1,000 X PEL). respirator operated in pressure
demand mode.
Greater than 100 f/cc Full facepiece supplied air
(1,000 X PEL) or unknown respirator operated in pressure
concentration. demand mode, equipped with
an auxiliary positive pressure
self-contained breathing
apparatus.
Note: a. Respirators assigned for high environmental concentrations may be used at lower concentrations, or when required respirator use is independent of concentration.
Note: b. A high efficiency filter means a filter that is at least 99.97 percent efficient against mono-dispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter or larger.
(B) The employer shall select respirators from among those jointly approved as
being acceptable for protection by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions of
30 CFR Part 11.
(C) The employer shall provide a tight fitting powered, air- purifying respirator in lieu of any negative-pressure respirator specified in Table 1 whenever:
1. An employee chooses to use this type of respirator; and
2. This respirator will provide adequate protection to the employee.
(DC) In addition to the above selection criterion, t
The employer shall provide a half-mask air purifying respirator, other than a
disposable respirator, equipped with high efficiency filters whenever the employee
performs the following activities:
1. Class II and III asbestos jobs where the employer does not produce
work and a negative exposure assessment has not been conducted by the employer;
and
2. Class III jobs where TSI or surfacing ACM or PACM is being disturbed.
(ED) In addition to the selection criteria in
paragraphs (h)(2)(A) through (D), the employer shall provide a tight-fitting powered air
purifying respirator equipped with high efficiency filters or a full facepiece supplied
air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with HEPA egress cartridges
or an auxiliary positive pressure self contained breathing apparatus for all employees
within the regulated area where Class I work is being performed for which a negative
exposure assessment has not been produced and, the exposure assessment indicates the
exposure level will not exceed 1 f/cc as an 8-hour time weighted average. A full facepiece
supplied air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with an auxiliary
positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus shall be provided under such
conditions, if the exposure levels above 1 f/cc as an 8-hour time weighted average.
1. A tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirator
equipped with high efficiency filters;
2.MA full facepiece supplied air-respirator operated in the pressure-demand mode equipped with HEPA egress cartridges; or
3.MA full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the pressure demand mode equipped with an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. MA full facepiece supplied-air respirator operated in the pressure-demand mode equipped with an auxiliary positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus must be provided under such conditions when the exposure, assessment indicates exposure levels above 1 f/cc as an 8-hour time weighted average.
(F) The employer shall inform any employee required to wear a respirator under this section that the employee may require the employer to provide a powered air-purifying respirator in lieu of a negative pressure respirator.
(3) Respirator program.
(A) Where respiratory protection is used, the employer shall institute a respirator program in accordance with Section 1531 of these Orders
(B) The employer shall permit each employee who uses a filter respirator to change the filter elements whenever an increase in breathing resistance is detected and shall maintain an adequate supply of filter elements for this purpose.
(C) Employees who wear respirators shall be permitted to leave work areas to wash their faces and respirator facepieces whenever necessary to prevent skin irritation associated with respirator use.
(D) No employee shall be assigned to tasks requiring the use of respirators if, based on his or her most recent examination, an examining physician determines that the employee will be unable to function normally wearing a respirator, or that the safety or health of the employees or of other employees will be impaired by the use of a respirator. Such employee shall be assigned to another job or given the opportunity to transfer to a different position, the duties of which he or she is able to perform with the same employer, in the same geographical area, and with the same seniority, status, and rate of pay and other job benefits he or she had just prior to such transfer, if such a different position is available.
(4) Respirator fit testing.
(A) The employer shall ensure that the respirator issued to the employee exhibits the least possible facepiece leakage and that the respirator is fitted properly.
(B) Employers shall perform either quantitative or qualitative face fit tests at the time of initial fitting and at least every 6 months thereafter for each employee wearing a negative-pressure respirator. The qualitative fit tests may be used only for testing the fit of half-mask respirators where they are permitted to be worn, or of full-facepiece air purifying respirators where they are worn at levels at which half-facepiece air purifying respirators are permitted. Qualitative and quantitative fit tests shall be conducted in accordance with Appendix C of this section. The tests shall be used to select facepieces that provide the required protection as prescribed in Table 1 in subsection (h)(2)(A) of this section.
* * *
NOTE: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 6501.5, 9020, 9021.5, 9021.9, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 6501.5, 6501.7, 6501.8, 6501.9, 6502, 9003, 9004(b), 9005, 9006, 9009, 9020, 9021.5, 9021.9, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code; Section 25910, Health and Safety Code; and Sections 7180, 7180.5, 7181, 7182, 7183, 7183.5, 7184, 7185, 7187, 7189, 7189.5 and 7189.7, Business and Professions Code.
* * *
Delete Appendix C to Section 1529 and replace with editorial reference in brackets:
Delete existing section 1531 and replace with note to read:
§ 1531. Respiratory protective equipment.
Note: The requirements applicable to construction work under this section are identical to those set forth in section 5144.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Amend section 1532 to read:
§ 1532. Cadmium.
* * *
(g) Respirator Protection.
(1) General. Where respirators are required by this section, the employer shall
provide them at no cost to the employee and shall assure that they are used in compliance
with the requirements. Respirators shall be used in the following circumstances: For
employees who use respirators required by this section, the employer must provide
respirators that comply with the requirements of this subsection. Respirators must be used
during:
(A) Where exposure levels exceed the PEL, during the time p Periods
necessary to install or implement feasible engineering and work practice controls when
employee exposures exceed the PEL;
(B) In those m Maintenance and repair activities and during
those brief or intermittent operations where exposures exceed the PEL and engineering and
work practice controls are not feasible, or are not required;
(C) In Work operations in the regulated areas, as
prescribed specified in subsection (e);
(D) Where Work operations for which the employer has
implemented all feasible engineering and work practice controls and such controls are not
sufficient to reduce exposures to or below the PEL;
(E) In e Emergencies;
(F) Wherever Work operations for which an employee who is
exposed to cadmium at or above the action level requests a respirator; and
(G) Wherever an employee is exposed to cadmium above the PEL and Work
operations for which engineering controls are not required under subsection (f)(1)(B) to
reduce employee exposures that exceed the PEL.
(2) Respirator program.
(A) The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 5144 (b) through (d) (except (d)(1)(C)), and (f) through (m).
(B) If an employee exhibits breathing difficulty during fit testing or respirator use, the employer must provide the employee with a medical examination in accordance with subsection (
l)(6)(B) to determine if the employee can use a respirator while performing the required duties.(C) No employee must use a respirator when, based on their most recent medical examination, the examining physician determines that the employee will be unable to function normally while using a respirator. If the physician determines the employee must be limited in, or removed from, their current job because of the employee’s inability to use a respirator, the job limitation or removal must be conducted in accordance with subsections (
l)(11) and (12).(3) Respirator Selection.
(A) Where respirators are required under this section, the employer shall
select and provide the appropriate respirator as specified in Table 1. The employer shall
select respirators from among those jointly approved as acceptable protection against
cadmium dust, fume, and mist by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and by
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions of
30 CFR Part 11. The employer must select the appropriate respirator from Table
1 of this section.
| Airborne Concentration or | Required |
| Condition of Usea | Respirator Typeb |
| ------------------------- | ------------------------- |
| 10 X or less...................... | A half mask, air-purifying |
| respirator equipped | |
| with a HEPAc filterd | |
| 25 X or less...................... | A powered air-purifying |
| respirator ("PAPR") with a | |
| loose-fitting hood or | |
| helmet equipped with a | |
| HEPA filter, or a | |
| supplied-air respirator | |
| with a loose-fitting hood | |
| or helmet facepiece | |
| operated in the continuous | |
| flow mode | |
| 50 X or less .................... | A full facepiece air- |
| purifying respirator | |
| equipped with a HEPA | |
| filter, or a powered | |
| air-purifying respirator | |
| with a tight-fitting half | |
| mask equipped with a HEPA | |
| filter, or a supplied air | |
| respirator with a tight- | |
| fitting half mask operated | |
| in the continuous flow | |
| mode | |
| 250 X or less..................... | A powered air-purifying |
| respirator with a tight- | |
| fitting full facepiece | |
| equipped with a HEPA | |
| filter, or supplied-air | |
| respirator with a tight- | |
| fitting full facepiece | |
| operated in the continuous | |
| flow mode | |
| 1000 X or less.................... | A supplied-air respirator |
| with half mask or full | |
| facepiece operated in the | |
| pressure demand or other | |
| positive pressure mode | |
| > 1000 X or unknown............... | A self-contained breathing |
| apparatus with | |
| a full | |
| facepiece operated in the | |
| pressure demand or other | |
| positive pressure mode, or | |
| a supplied-air respirator | |
| with a full facepiece | |
| operated in the pressure | |
| demand or other positive | |
| pressure mode and equipped | |
| with an auxiliary escape | |
| type self contained | |
| breathing apparatus | |
| operated in the pressure | |
| demand mode | |
| Fire fighting..................... | A self-contained breathing |
| apparatus with full | |
| facepiece operated in the | |
| pressure demand or other | |
| positive pressure mode |
a
Concentrations expressed as multiple of the PEL.b
Respirators assigned for higher environmental concentrations may be used at lower exposure levels. Quantitative fit testing is required for all tight-fitting air purifying respirators where airborne concentration of cadmium exceeds 10 times the TWA PEL (10 x 5 µ g/m3= 50 µ g/m3). A full facepiece respirator is required when eye irritation is experienced.c
HEPA means High Efficiency Particulate Aird
Fit testing, qualitative or quantitative, is required.Source: Respiratory Decision Logic, NIOSH, 1987.
(B) The employer shall provide a powered, air-purifying respirator (PAPR) in lieu of a negative pressure respirator wherever:
1. An employee entitled to a respirator chooses to use this type of respirator; and
2. This respirator will provide adequate protection to the employee.
(3) Respirator Program.
(A) Where respiratory protection is required, the employer shall institute a respirator protection program in accordance with section 1531.
(B) The employer shall permit each employee who is required to use an air purifying respirator to leave the regulated area to change the filter elements or replace the respirator whenever an increase in breathing resistance is detected and shall maintain an adequate supply of filter elements for this purpose.
(C) The employer shall also permit each employee who is required to wear a respirator to leave the regulated area to wash his or her face and the respirator facepiece whenever necessary to prevent skin irritation associated with respirator use.
(D) If an employee exhibits difficulty in breathing while wearing a respirator during a fit test or during use, the employer shall make available to the employee a medical examination in accordance with subsection (l)(6)(B) to determine if the employee can wear a respirator while performing the required duties.
(E) No employee shall be assigned a task requiring the use of a respirator if, based upon his or her most recent examination, an examining physician determines that the employee will be unable to continue to function normally while wearing a respirator. If the physician determines the employee must be limited in, or removed from his or her current job because of the employee's inability to wear a respirator, the limitation or removal shall be in accordance with subsections (l)(11) and (12).
(4) Respirator Fit Testing.
(A) The employer shall assure that the respirator issued to the employee is fitted properly and exhibits the least possible facepiece leakage.
(B) For each employee wearing a tight-fitting, air purifying respirator (either negative or positive pressure) who is exposed to airborne concentrations of cadmium that do not exceed 10 times the PEL (10 x 5 µ g/m3 = 50 µ g/m3), the employer shall perform either quantitative or qualitative fit testing at the time of initial fitting and at least annually thereafter. If quantitative fit testing is used for a negative pressure respirator, a fit factor that is at least 10 times the protection factor for that class of respirators (Table 1) shall be achieved at testing.
(C) For each employee wearing a tight-fitting air purifying respirator (either negative or positive pressure) who is exposed to airborne concentrations of cadmium that exceed 10 times the PEL (10 x 5 µ g/m3 = 50 µ g/m3), the employer shall perform quantitative fit testing at the time of initial fitting and at least annually thereafter. For negative-pressure respirators, a fit factor that is at least ten times the protection factor for that class of respirators (Table 1) shall be achieved during quantitative fit testing.
(D) For each employee wearing a tight-fitting, supplied-air respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus, the employer shall perform quantitative fit testing at the time of initial fitting and at least annually thereafter. This shall be accomplished by fit testing an air purifying respirator of identical type facepiece, make, model, and size as the supplied air respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus that is equipped with HEPA filters and tested as a surrogate (substitute) in the negative pressure mode. A fit factor that is at least 10 times the protection factor for that class of respirators (Table 1) shall be achieved during quantitative fit testing. A supplied- air respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus with the same type facepiece, make, model, and size as the air purifying respirator with which the employee passed the quantitative fit test may then be used by that employee up to the protection factor listed in Table 1 for that class of respirators.
(E) Fit testing shall be conducted in accordance with Appendix C.
* * *
Appendix C
Qualitative and Quantitative
Fit Testing Procedures
Refer to section 5207, Appendix C. [See Section 5144, Appendix A]
* * *
Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.
Amend section 1532.1 to read:
§ 1532.1. Lead
* * *
(f) Respiratory protection.
(1) General. Where the use of respirators is required under this section the
employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, and assure the use of respirators
which comply with the requirements of this subsection. Respirators shall be used in the
following circumstances: For employees who use respirators required by this
section, the employer must provide respirators that comply with the requirements of this
subsection. Respirators must be used during:
(A) Whenever Periods when an employee's exposure to lead
exceeds the PEL;
(B) In work situations in Work operations for which engineering
controls and work practices are not sufficient to reduce exposures to or below the PEL;
(C) Whenever Periods when an employee requests a respirator;
and
(D) An Periods when respirators are required to provide interim
protection for employees performing tasks as while they perform the
operations specified in subsection (d)(2).
(2) Respirator program.
(A) The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 5144 (b) through (d) (except (d)(1)(C)), and (f) through (m).
(B) If an employee exhibits breathing difficulty during fit testing or respirator use, the employer must provide the employee with a medical examination in accordance with subsection (j)(3)(A)2. to determine if the employee can use a respirator while performing the required duties.
(3) Respirator selection.
(A) Where respirators are used under this section t The
employer shall select the appropriate respirator or combination of respirators from Table
I below.
(B) The employer shall provide a powered, air-purifying respirator in lieu of the respirator specified in Table I whenever:
1. An employee chooses to use this type of respirator; and
2. This respirator will provide adequate protection to the employee.
(C) The employer shall select respirators from among those approved for
protection against lead dust, fume, and mist by the Mine Safety and Health Administration
and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions
of 30 CFR part 11
Table I. - Respiratory Protection for Lead Aerosols
| Airborne concentration of lead or condition of use | Required Respirator1 |
| Not in excess of 500 µg/m3 | *1/2 mask air purifying respirator with high efficiency filters.2,3 * 1/2 mask supplied air respirator operated in demand (negative pressure) mode. |
| Not in excess of 1,250 µg/m3 | * Loose fitting hood or helmet powered air purifying respirator with high
efficiency filters.3 * Hood or helmet supplied air respirator operated in a continuous - flow mode - e.g., type CE abrasive blasting respirator operated in a continuous - flow mode. |
| Not in excess of 2,500 µg/m3 | * Full facepiece air purifying respirator with high efficiency filters.3 * Tight fitting powered air purifying respirator with high efficiency filters.3 * Full facepiece supplied air respirator operated in demand mode. * Full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) operated in demand mode. |
| Not in excess of 50,000 µg/m3. | * 1/2 mask supplied air respirator operated in pressure demand or other positive - pressure mode. |
| Not in excess of 100,000 µg/m3. | * Full facepiece supplied air respirator operated in pressure demand or other positive-pressure mode - e.g., type CE abrasive blasting respirators operated in a positive - pressure mode. |
| Greater than 100,000 µg/m3 unknown concentration, or fire fighting. | *Full facepiece SCBA operated in pressure demand or other positive - pressure mode. |
1 Respirators specified for higher concentrations can be used at lower concentrations of lead.
2 Full facepiece is required if the lead aerosols cause eye or skin irritation at the use concentrations.
3 A high efficiency particulate filter (HEPA) means a filter that is 99.97
percent efficient against particles of 0.3 micron size or larger.
(3) Respirator usage.
(A) The employer shall assure that the respirator issued to the employee exhibits minimum facepiece leakage and that the respirator is fitted properly.
(B) Employers shall perform either quantitative or qualitative face fit tests at the time of initial fitting and at least every six months thereafter for each employee wearing negative pressure respirators. The qualitative fit tests may be used only for testing the fit of half-mask respirators where they are permitted to be worn, and shall be conducted in accordance with appendix D of this section. The tests shall be used to select facepieces that provide the required protection as prescribed in Table I.
(C) If an employee exhibits difficulty in breathing during the fitting test or during use, the employer shall make available to the employee an examination in accordance with subsection (j)(3)(A)2. to determine whether the employee can wear a respirator while performing the required duty.
(4) Respirator program.
(A) The employer shall institute a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 1531(b), (d), (e) and (f).
(B) The employer shall permit each employee who uses a filter respirator to change the filter elements whenever an increase in breathing resistance is detected and shall maintain an adequate supply of filter elements for this purpose.
(C) Employees who wear respirators shall be permitted to leave work areas to wash their face and respirator facepiece whenever necessary to prevent skin irritation associated with respirator use.
* * *
Appendix B to § 1532.1 – Employee Standard Summary
* * *
IV. Respiratory Protection - Subsection (f)
Your employer is required to provide and assure your use of respirators when your exposure to lead is not controlled below the PEL by other means. The employer must pay the cost of the respirator. Whenever you request one, your employer is also required to provide you a respirator even if your air exposure level is not above the PEL. You might desire a respirator when, for example, you have received medical advice that your lead absorption should be decreased. Or, you may intend to have children in the near future, and want to reduce the level of lead in your body to minimize adverse reproductive effects. While respirators are the least satisfactory means of controlling your exposure, they are capable of providing significant protection if properly chosen, fitted, worn, cleaned, maintained, and replaced when they stop providing adequate protection.
Your employer is required to select respirators from the types listed in Table I of the
Respiratory Protection section of the standard (section 1532.1(f)). Any respirator
chosen must be approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) or the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under the provisions of
42 CFR part 84. This respirator selection table will enable your employer to choose a
type of respirator which will give you a proper amount of protection based on your
airborne lead exposure. Your employer may select a type of respirator that provides
greater protection than that required by the standard; that is, one recommended for a
higher concentration of lead than is present in your workplace. For example, a powered air
purifying respirator (PAPR) is much more protective than a typical negative pressure
respirator, and may also be more comfortable to wear. A PAPR has a filter, cartridge or
canister to clean the air, and a power source which continuously blows filtered air into
your breathing zone. Your employer might make a PAPR available to you to ease the burden
of having to wear a respirator for long periods of time. The standard provides that you
can obtain a PAPR upon request.
Your employer must also start a Respiratory Protection Program. This program
must include written procedures for the proper selection, use, cleaning, storage, and
maintenance of respirators. Your employer must assure that your respirator
facepiece fits properly. Proper fit of a respirator facepiece is critical. Obtaining a
proper fit on each employee may require your employer to make available two or three
different mask types. In order to assure that your respirator fits properly and that
facepiece leakage is minimized, your employer must give you either a qualitative fit test
or a quantitative fit test (if you use a negative pressure respirator) in
accordance with Appendix D as specified in Appendix A of the Respiratory
Protection standard located at section 5144. Any respirator which has a
filter, cartridge or canister which cleans the work room air before you breathe it and
which requires the force of your inhalation to draw air through the filtering element is a
negative pressure respirator. A positive pressure respirator supplies air to you directly.
A quantitative fit test uses a sophisticated machine to measure the amount, if any, of
test material that leaks into the facepiece of your respirator.
You must also receive from your employer proper training in the use of respirators. Your employer is required to teach you how to wear a respirator, to know why it is needed, and to understand its limitations.
Your employer must test the effectiveness of your negative pressure respirator initially and at least every six months thereafter with a "qualitative fit test." In this test, the fit of the facepiece is checked by seeing if you can smell a substance placed outside the respirator. If you can, there is appreciable leakage where the facepiece meets your face.
The standard provides that if your respirator uses filter elements, you must be given an opportunity to change the filter elements whenever an increase in breathing resistance is detected. You also must be permitted to periodically leave your work area to wash your face and respirator facepiece whenever necessary to prevent skin irritation. If you ever have difficulty in breathing during a fit test or while using a respirator, your employer must make a medical examination available to you to determine whether you can safely wear a respirator. The result of this examination may be to give you a positive pressure respirator (which reduces breathing resistance) or to provide alternative means of protection.
* * *
Delete Appendix D to Section 1532.1 and replace with editorial reference in brackets:
§ 1535. Methylenedianiline.
* * *
(i) Respiratory protection.
(1) General. The employer shall provide respirators, and ensure that they are
used, where required by this section. Respirators shall be used in the following
circumstances. For employees who use respirators required by this section, the
employer must provide respirators that comply with the requirements of this subsection.
Respirators must be used during:
(A) During the time p Period necessary to install or implement
feasible engineering and work practice controls;
(B) In w Work operations such as maintenance and repair
activities and spray application processes for which engineering and work practice
controls are not feasible;
(C) In work situations where Work operations for which feasible
engineering and work practice controls are not yet sufficient to reduce exposure to or
below the PELs; and
(D) In e Emergencies.
(2) Respirator program. The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 5144 (b) through (d) (except (d)(1)(C)), and (f) through (m).
(3) Respirator selection.
(A) Where respirators are required or allowed under this section, the employer
shall select and provide, at no cost to the employee, the appropriate respirator as
specified in Table 1, and shall assure that the employee uses the respirator provided.
The employer must select the appropriate respirator from Table 1 of this section.
(B) The employer shall select respirators from among those jointly approved by
the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health under the provisions of 30 CFR Part II.
(C) Any employee who cannot wear a negative pressure
respirator shall be given the option of wearing a positive pressure respirator or any
supplied-air respirator operated in the continuous flow or pressure demand mode.
(3) Respirator program. The employer shall institute a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 1531(b), (d), (e), and (f).
(4) Respirator use.
(A) Where air-purifying respirators (cartridge or canister) are used, the employer shall replace the air purifying element as needed to maintain the effectiveness of the respirator. The employer shall ensure that each cartridge is dated at the beginning of use.
(B) Employees who wear respirators shall be allowed to leave the regulated area to readjust the facepiece or to wash their faces and to wipe clean the facepieces on their respirators in order to minimize potential skin irritation associated with respirator use.
TABLE 1. Respiratory Protection for MDA
Airborne Concentration of Respirator Type
MDA or Condition of Use
a. Less than or equal to (1) Half-Mask
10 x PEL Respirator
with HEPA1
Cartridge2
b. Less than or equal to (1) Full facepiece
50 x PEL Respirator with
HEPA1 Cartridge or Canister2
c. Less than or equal to
1000 PEL (1) Full facepiece
powered
air-purifying
respirator with
HEPA1 cartridges2
d. Greater than 1000 x PEL or (1)Self-contained
unknown concentrations breathing apparatus
with full facepiece
in positive
pressure mode.
(2) Full facepiece
positive pressure
demand supplied-air
respirator with
auxiliary self-
contained air
supply.
e. Escape (1)Any full
facepiece air
purifying
respirator
with HEPA1
cartridges2
(2) Any positive
pressure or
continuous flow
self-contained
breathing apparatus
with full facepiece
or hood.
f. Firefighting (1) Full face
self-contained
breathing apparatus
in positive
pressure demand
mode.
NOTE: Respirators assigned for higher environmental concentrations may be used at lower concentrations.
1 High Efficiency Particulate Air filter (HEPA) means a filter that is at least 99.97 percent efficient against mono-dispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers or larger.
2 Combination HEPA/Organic Vapor Cartridges shall be used whenever MDA in liquid form or a process requiring heat is used.
(5) Respirator fit testing.
(A) The employer shall perform and record the results of either quantitative or qualitative fit tests at the time of initial fitting and at least annually thereafter for each employee wearing a negative pressure respirator. The test shall be used to select a respirator facepiece which provides the required protection as prescribed in Table 1.
(B) The employer shall follow the test protocols outlined in Appendix E of this standard for whichever type of fit testing the employer chooses.
* * *
Appendix E to Section 1535 – Qualitative and Quantitative Fit Testing Procedures
Refer to section 5200, Appendix E. [See Section 5144, Appendix A]
Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.
Amend Section 3409, Respiratory Protection to read:
§ 3409. Respiratory Protection.
(a) Approved Equipment.
(1) Approvals. Fire fighters exposed to harmful exposure in the course of their
assigned activities shall be provided with, and shall use respiratory protective devices
that are approved and certified in accordance with Section 5144, and the U. S.
Department of Health, Education and Welfare publication (NIOSH) 76-145, and 1977
Supplement, Publication No. 77-195, "Certified Equipment," which includes 30
CFR, Chapter 1, Part 11 methods and requirements specified by the National
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under 42 CFR part 84.
(2) Permissible Devices.
(A) Respiratory protective devices provided for and used by fire fighters in structural fire fighting activity shall be limited to those types classified as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and combination breathing apparatus of the supplied-air positive-pressure type.
(B) Closed-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus shall not be used by fire fighters except where it has been demonstrated that long duration breathing apparatus is necessary. If such breathing devices are used, quantitative fit tests providing a minimum protection factor of 5,000 shall be performed on each individual using the long duration breathing apparatus. The quantitative fit test procedures shall be available for inspection by the Division.
(b) General Requirements.
(1) Written Standard Procedures. The employer shall develop and implement comprehensive written standard operating procedures for the use, care, maintenance, and training relating to respiratory protective equipment in accordance with Section 5144 and ANSI Z88.2 (1980), "Practices for Respiratory Protection," and ANSI Z88.5 (1981), "Practices for Respiratory Protection for the Fire Service."
The operating procedures required by this subsection are exempt from the prohibition of the use of contact lenses specified in ANSI Z88.2(1980) and ANSI Z88.5(1981).
(2) When emergency conditions require the urgent multi-person use of the same facepiece, requirements of Section 5144(d) pertaining to cleaning and sanitation of the facepiece shall not apply.
(3) Operating Service Time. Respiratory protective devices provided for use by fire fighters shall have a rated service time of at least 30 minutes in accordance with the methods and requirements specified by NIOSH 42 CFR part 84.
EXCEPTION: Respiratory protective devices of less than 30 minutes rated service time shall only be used for escape, rescue and observation.
* * *
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Amend Section 3411, Private Fire Brigades to read:
§ 3411. Private Fire Brigades.
* * *
(e) Respiratory Protection Devices. The employer shall provide at no cost to the
employee and assure that respiratory protective devices worn by fire brigade members meet
the requirements contained in Section 5144 and the requirements contained in this Article,
and are certified under 30 CFR Part 11 42 CFR part 84.
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Amend Section 5144, Respiratory Protection to read:
[Delete existing text and replace with new text]
§ 5144. Respiratory Protective Equipment Protection.
(a) Permissible practice.
(1) In the control of those occupational diseases caused by breathing air contaminated with harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the primary objective shall be to prevent atmospheric contamination. This shall be accomplished as far as feasible by accepted engineering control measures (for example, enclosure or confinement of the operation, general and local ventilation, and substitution of less toxic materials). When effective engineering controls are not feasible, or while they are being instituted, appropriate respirators shall be used pursuant to this section.
(2) Respirators shall be provided by the employer when such equipment is necessary to protect the health of the employee. The employer shall provide the respirators which are applicable and suitable for the purpose intended. The employer shall be responsible for the establishment and maintenance of a respiratory protection program which shall include the requirements outlined in subsection (c).
(b) Definitions. The following definitions are important terms used in the respiratory protection standard in this section.
Air-purifying respirator means a respirator with an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or canister that removes specific air contaminants by passing ambient air through the air-purifying element.
Assigned protection factor (APF) [Reserved]
Atmosphere-supplying respirator means a respirator that supplies the respirator user with breathing air from a source independent of the ambient atmosphere, and includes supplied-air respirators (SARs) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.
Canister or cartridge means a container with a filter, sorbent, or catalyst, or combination of these items, which removes specific contaminants from the air passed through the container.
Demand respirator means an atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece only when a negative pressure is created inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Emergency situation means any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment that may or does result in an uncontrolled significant release of an airborne contaminant.
Employee exposure means exposure to a concentration of an airborne contaminant that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protection.
End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) means a system that warns the respirator user of the approach of the end of adequate respiratory protection, for example, that the sorbent is approaching saturation or is no longer effective.
Escape-only respirator means a respirator intended to be used only for emergency exit.
Filter or air purifying element means a component used in respirators to remove solid or liquid aerosols from the inspired air.
Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means 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.
Fit factor means a quantitative estimate of the fit of a particular respirator to a specific individual, and typically estimates the ratio of the concentration of a substance in ambient air to its concentration inside the respirator when worn.
Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitatively or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual. (See also Qualitative fit test QLFT and Quantitative fit test QNFT.)
Helmet means a rigid respiratory inlet covering that also provides head protection against impact and penetration.
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter means a filter that is at least 99.97% efficient in removing monodisperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter. The equivalent NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate filters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.
Hood means a respiratory inlet covering that completely covers the head and neck and may also cover portions of the shoulders and torso.
Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) means an atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
Interior structural firefighting means the physical activity of fire suppression, rescue or both, inside of buildings or enclosed structures which are involved in a fire situation beyond the incipient stage. (See Article 10.1)
Loose-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that is designed to form a partial seal with the face.
Maximum use concentration (MUC) [Reserved].
Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting) means a respirator in which the air pressure inside the facepiece is negative during inhalation with respect to the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere means an atmosphere with an oxygen content below 19.5% by volume.
Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) means an individual whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some or all of the health care services required by subsection (e).
Positive pressure respirator means a respirator in which the pressure inside the respiratory inlet covering exceeds the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) means an air-purifying respirator that uses a blower to force the ambient air through air-purifying elements to the inlet covering.
Pressure demand respirator means a positive pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece when the positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of respirator fit that relies on the individual's response to the test agent.
Quantitative fit test (QNFT) means an assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator.
Respiratory inlet covering means that portion of a respirator that forms the protective barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifying device or breathing air source, or both. It may be a facepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with nose clamp.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) means an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the breathing air source is designed to be carried by the user.
Service life means the period of time that a respirator, filter or sorbent, or other respiratory equipment provides adequate protection to the wearer.
Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respirator means an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the source of breathing air is not designed to be carried by the user.
Tight-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that forms a complete seal with the face.
User seal check means an action conducted by the respirator user to determine if the respirator is properly seated to the face.
(c) Respiratory protection program. This subsection requires the employer to develop and implement a written respiratory protection program with required worksite-specific procedures and elements for required respirator use. The program must be administered by a suitably trained program administrator. In addition, certain program elements may be required for voluntary use to prevent potential hazards associated with the use of the respirator. The Small Entity Compliance Guide contains criteria for the selection of a program administrator and a sample program that meets the requirements of this subsection. Copies of the Small Entity Compliance Guide will be available from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Office of Publications, Room N 3101, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20210 (202-219-4667).
(1) In any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect the health of the employee or whenever respirators are required by the employer, the employer shall establish and implement a written respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures. The program shall be updated as necessary to reflect those changes in workplace conditions that affect respirator use. The employer shall include in the program the following provisions, as applicable:
(A) Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace;
(B) Medical evaluations of employees required to use respirators;
(C) Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;
(D) Procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations;
(E) Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and otherwise maintaining respirators;
(F) Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and flow of breathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators;
(G) Training of employees in the respiratory hazards to which they are potentially exposed during routine and emergency situations;
(H) Training of employees in the proper use of respirators, including putting on and removing them, any limitations on their use, and their maintenance; and
(I) Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the program.
(2) Where respirator use is not required:
(A) An employer may provide respirators at the request of employees or permit employees to use their own respirators, if the employer determines that such respirator use will not in itself create a hazard. If the employer determines that any voluntary respirator use is permissible, the employer shall provide the respirator users with the information contained in Appendix D to this section ("Information for Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under the Standard"); and
(B) In addition, the employer must establish and implement those elements of a written respiratory protection program necessary to ensure that any employee using a respirator voluntarily is medically able to use that respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to the user. Exception: Employers are not required to include in a written respiratory protection program those employees whose only use of respirators involves the voluntary use of filtering facepieces (dust masks).
(3) The employer shall designate a program administrator who is qualified by appropriate training or experience that is commensurate with the complexity of the program to administer or oversee the respiratory protection program and conduct the required evaluations of program effectiveness.
(4) The employer shall provide respirators, training, and medical evaluations at no cost to the employee.
(d) Selection of respirators. This subsection requires the employer to evaluate respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace, identify relevant workplace and user factors, and base respirator selection on these factors. The subsection also specifies appropriately protective respirators for use in IDLH atmospheres, and limits the selection and use of air-purifying respirators.
(1) General requirements.
(A) The employer shall select and provide an appropriate respirator based on the respiratory hazard(s) to which the worker is exposed and workplace and user factors that affect respirator performance and reliability.
(B) The employer shall select a NIOSH-certified respirator. The respirator shall be used in compliance with the conditions of its certification.
(C) The employer shall identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace; this evaluation shall include a reasonable estimate of employee exposures to respiratory hazard(s) and an identification of the contaminant's chemical state and physical form. Where the employer cannot identify or reasonably estimate the employee exposure, the employer shall consider the atmosphere to be IDLH.
(D) The employer shall select respirators from a sufficient number of respirator models and sizes so that the respirator is acceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.
(2) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres.
(A) The employer shall provide the following respirators for employee use in IDLH atmospheres:
1. A full facepiece pressure demand SCBA certified by NIOSH for a minimum service life of thirty minutes, or
2. A combination full facepiece pressure demand supplied-air respirator (SAR) with auxiliary self-contained air supply.
(B) Respirators provided only for escape from IDLH atmospheres shall be NIOSH-certified for escape from the atmosphere in which they will be used.
(C) All oxygen-deficient atmospheres shall be considered IDLH.
Exception: If the employer demonstrates that, under all foreseeable conditions, the oxygen concentration can be maintained within the ranges specified in Table II (i.e., for the altitudes set out in the table), then any atmosphere-supplying respirator may be used.
(3) Respirators for atmospheres that are not IDLH.
(A) The employer shall provide a respirator that is adequate to protect the health of the employee and ensure compliance with all other OSHA statutory and regulatory requirements, under routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.
1. Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) [Reserved]
2. Maximum Use Concentration (MUC) [Reserved]
(B) The respirator selected shall be appropriate for the chemical state and physical form of the contaminant.
(C) For protection against gases and vapors, the employer shall provide:
1. An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or
2. An air-purifying respirator, provided that:
a. The respirator is equipped with an end-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) certified by NIOSH for the contaminant; or
b. If there is no ESLI appropriate for conditions in the employer's workplace, the employer implements a change schedule for canisters and cartridges that is based on objective information or data that will ensure that canisters and cartridges are changed before the end of their service life. The employer shall describe in the respirator program the information and data relied upon and the basis for the canister and cartridge change schedule and the basis for reliance on the data.
(D) For protection against particulates, the employer shall provide:
1. An atmosphere-supplying respirator; or
2. An air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified by NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11 as a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, or an air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified for particulates by NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84; or
3. For contaminants consisting primarily of particles with mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD) of at least 2 micrometers, an air-purifying respirator equipped with any filter certified for particulates by NIOSH.
Table I.--Assigned Protection Factors [Reserved]
Table II
Altitude (ft.) Oxygen deficient Atmospheres
(% 02) for which the employer may rely on atmosphere-supplying respirators
Less than 3,001............................................ 16.0-19.5
3,001-4,000................................................ 16.4-19.5
4,001-5,000................................................ 17.1-19.5
5,001-6,000................................................ 17.8-19.5
6,001-7,000................................................ 18.5-19.5
7,001-8,0001............................................... 19.3-19.5
1 Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygen-enriched breathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.
(e) Medical evaluation. Using a respirator may place a physiological burden on employees that varies with the type of respirator worn, the job and workplace conditions in which the respirator is used, and the medical status of the employee. Accordingly, this subsection specifies the minimum requirements for medical evaluation that employers must implement to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator.
(1) General. The employer shall provide a medical evaluation to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator, before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace. The employer may discontinue an employee's medical evaluations when the employee is no longer required to use a respirator.
(2) Medical evaluation procedures.
(A) The employer shall identify a physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) to perform medical evaluations using a medical questionnaire or an initial medical examination that obtains the same information as the medical questionnaire.
(B) The medical evaluation shall obtain the information requested by the questionnaire in Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix C.
(3) Follow-up medical examination.
(A) The employer shall ensure that a follow-up medical examination is provided for an employee who gives a positive response to any question among questions 1 through 8 in Section 2, Part A of Appendix C or whose initial medical examination demonstrates the need for a follow-up medical examination.
(B) The follow-up medical examination shall include any medical tests, consultations, or diagnostic procedures that the PLHCP deems necessary to make a final determination.
(4) Administration of the medical questionnaire and examinations.
(A) The medical questionnaire and examinations shall be administered confidentially during the employee's normal working hours or at a time and place convenient to the employee. The medical questionnaire shall be administered in a manner that ensures that the employee understands its content.
(B) The employer shall provide the employee with an opportunity to discuss the questionnaire and examination results with the PLHCP.
(5) Supplemental information for the PLHCP.
(A) The following information must be provided to the PLHCP before the PLHCP makes a recommendation concerning an employee's ability to use a respirator:
1. The type and weight of the respirator to be used by the employee;
2. The duration and frequency of respirator use (including use for rescue and escape);
3. The expected physical work effort;
4. Additional protective clothing and equipment to be worn; and
5. Temperature and humidity extremes that may be encountered.
(B) Any supplemental information provided previously to the PLHCP regarding an employee need not be provided for a subsequent medical evaluation if the information and the PLHCP remain the same.
(C) The employer shall provide the PLHCP with a copy of the written respiratory protection program and a copy of this section.
Note to Subsection (e)(5)(C): When the employer replaces a PLHCP, the employer must ensure that the new PLHCP obtains this information, either by providing the documents directly to the PLHCP or having the documents transferred from the former PLHCP to the new PLHCP. However, OSHA does not expect employers to have employees medically reevaluated solely because a new PLHCP has been selected.
(6) Medical determination. In determining the employee's ability to use a respirator, the employer shall:
(A) Obtain a written recommendation regarding the employee's ability to use the respirator from the PLHCP. The recommendation shall provide only the following information:
1. Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical condition of the employee, or relating to the workplace conditions in which the respirator will be used, including whether or not the employee is medically able to use the respirator;
2. The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations; and
3. A statement that the PLHCP has provided the employee with a copy of the PLHCP's written recommendation.
(B) If the respirator is a negative pressure respirator and the PLHCP finds a medical condition that may place the employee's health at increased risk if the respirator is used, the employer shall provide a PAPR if the PLHCP's medical evaluation finds that the employee can use such a respirator; if a subsequent medical evaluation finds that the employee is medically able to use a negative pressure respirator, then the employer is no longer required to provide a PAPR.
(7) Additional medical evaluations. At a minimum, the employer shall provide additional medical evaluations that comply with the requirements of this section if:
(A) An employee reports medical signs or symptoms that are related to ability to use a respirator;
(B) A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program administrator informs the employer that an employee needs to be reevaluated;
(C) Information from the respiratory protection program, including observations made during fit testing and program evaluation, indicates a need for employee reevaluation; or
(D) 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 an employee.
(f) Fit testing. This subsection requires that, before an employee may be required to use any respirator with a negative or positive pressure tight-fitting facepiece, the employee must be fit tested with the same make, model, style, and size of respirator that will be used. This subsection specifies the kinds of fit tests allowed, the procedures for conducting them, and how the results of the fit tests must be used.
(1) The employer shall ensure that employees using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator pass an appropriate qualitative fit test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test (QNFT) as stated in this subsection.
(2) The employer shall ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator is fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece (size, style, model or make) is used, and at least annually thereafter.
(3) The employer shall conduct an additional fit test whenever the employee reports, or the employer, PLHCP, supervisor, or program administrator makes visual observations of, changes in the employee's physical condition that could affect respirator fit. Such conditions include, but are not limited to, facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an obvious change in body weight.
(4) If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, the employee subsequently notifies the employer, program administrator, supervisor, or PLHCP that the fit of the respirator is unacceptable, the employee shall be given a reasonable opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece and to be retested.
(5) The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-accepted QLFT or QNFT protocol. The OSHA-accepted QLFT and QNFT protocols and procedures are contained in Appendix A.
(6) QLFT may only be used to fit test negative pressure air-purifying respirators that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.
(7) If the fit factor, as determined through an OSHA-accepted QNFT protocol, is equal to or greater than 100 for tight-fitting half facepieces, or equal to or greater than 500 for tight-fitting full facepieces, the QNFT has been passed with that respirator.
(8) Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators and tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators shall be accomplished by performing quantitative or qualitative fit testing in the negative pressure mode, regardless of the mode of operation (negative or positive pressure) that is used for respiratory protection.
(A) Qualitative fit testing of these respirators shall be accomplished by temporarily converting the respirator user's actual facepiece into a negative pressure respirator with appropriate filters, or by using an identical negative pressure air-purifying respirator facepiece with the same sealing surfaces as a surrogate for the atmosphere-supplying or powered air-purifying respirator facepiece.
(B) Quantitative fit testing of these respirators shall be accomplished by modifying the facepiece to allow sampling inside the facepiece in the breathing zone of the user, midway between the nose and mouth. This requirement shall be accomplished by installing a permanent sampling probe onto a surrogate facepiece, or by using a sampling adapter designed to temporarily provide a means of sampling air from inside the facepiece.
(C) Any modifications to the respirator facepiece for fit testing shall be completely removed, and the facepiece restored to NIOSH-approved configuration, before that facepiece can be used in the workplace.
(g) Use of respirators. This subsection requires employers to establish and implement procedures for the proper use of respirators. These requirements include prohibiting conditions that may result in facepiece seal leakage, preventing employees from removing respirators in hazardous environments, taking actions to ensure continued effective respirator operation throughout the work shift, and establishing procedures for the use of respirators in IDLH atmospheres or in interior structural firefighting situations.
(1) Facepiece seal protection.
(A) The employer shall not permit respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who have:
1. Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face or that interferes with valve function; or
2. Any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.
(B) If an employee wears corrective glasses or goggles or other personal protective equipment, the employer shall ensure that such equipment is worn in a manner that does not interfere with the seal of the facepiece to the face of the user.
(C) For all tight-fitting respirators, the employer shall ensure that employees perform a user seal check each time they put on the respirator using the procedures in Appendix B-1 or procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer that the employer demonstrates are as effective as those in Appendix B-1.
(2) Continuing respirator effectiveness.
(A) Appropriate surveillance shall be maintained of work area conditions and degree of employee exposure or stress. When there is a change in work area conditions or degree of employee exposure or stress that may affect respirator effectiveness, the employer shall reevaluate the continued effectiveness of the respirator.
(B) The employer shall ensure that employees leave the respirator use area:
1. To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as necessary to prevent eye or skin irritation associated with respirator use; or
2. If they detect vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece; or
3. To replace the respirator or the filter, cartridge, or canister elements.
(C) If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece, the employer must replace or repair the respirator before allowing the employee to return to the work area.
(3) Procedures for IDLH atmospheres. For all IDLH atmospheres, the employer shall ensure that:
(A) One employee or, when needed, more than one employee is located outside the IDLH atmosphere;
(B) Visual, voice, or signal line communication is maintained between the employee(s) in the IDLH atmosphere and the employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere;
(C) The employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere are trained and equipped to provide effective emergency rescue;
(D) The employer or designee is notified before the employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere enter the IDLH atmosphere to provide emergency rescue;
(E) The employer or designee authorized to do so by the employer, once notified, provides necessary assistance appropriate to the situation;
(F) Employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmospheres are equipped with:
1. Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs, or a pressure demand or other positive pressure supplied-air respirator with auxiliary SCBA; and either
2. Appropriate retrieval equipment for removing the employee(s) who enter(s) these hazardous atmospheres where retrieval equipment would contribute to the rescue of the employee(s) and would not increase the overall risk resulting from entry; or
3. Equivalent means for rescue where retrieval equipment is not required under subsection (g)(3)(F)2.
(4) Procedures for interior structural firefighting. In addition to the requirements set forth under subsection (g)(3), in interior structural fires, the employer shall ensure that:
(A) At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain in visual or voice contact with one another at all times;
(B) At least two employees are located outside the IDLH atmosphere; and
(C) All employees engaged in interior structural firefighting use SCBAs.
Note 1 to subsection (g): One of the two individuals located outside the IDLH atmosphere may be assigned to an additional role, such as incident commander in charge of the emergency or safety officer, so long as this individual is able to perform assistance or rescue activities without jeopardizing the safety or health of any firefighter working at the incident.
Note 2 to subsection (g): Nothing in this section is meant to preclude firefighters from performing emergency rescue activities before an entire team has assembled.
(h) Maintenance and care of respirators. This subsection requires the employer to provide for the cleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection, and repair of respirators used by employees.
(1) Cleaning and disinfecting. The employer shall provide each respirator user with a respirator that is clean, sanitary, and in good working order. The employer shall ensure that respirators are cleaned and disinfected using the procedures in Appendix B-2, or procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer, provided that such procedures are of equivalent effectiveness. The respirators shall be cleaned and disinfected at the following intervals:
(A) Respirators issued for the exclusive use of an employee shall be cleaned and disinfected as often as necessary to be maintained in a sanitary condition;
(B) Respirators issued to more than one employee shall be cleaned and disinfected before being worn by different individuals;
(C) Respirators maintained for emergency use shall be cleaned and disinfected after each use; and
(D) Respirators used in fit testing and training shall be cleaned and disinfected after each use.
(2) Storage. The employer shall ensure that respirators are stored as follows:
(A) All respirators shall be stored to protect them from damage, contamination, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals, and they shall be packed or stored to prevent deformation of the facepiece and exhalation valve.
(B) In addition to the requirements of subsection (h)(2)(A), emergency respirators shall be:
1. Kept accessible to the work area;
2. Stored in compartments or in covers that are clearly marked as containing emergency respirators; and
3. Stored in accordance with any applicable manufacturer instructions.
(3) Inspection.
(A) The employer shall ensure that respirators are inspected as follows:
1. All respirators used in routine situations shall be inspected before each use and during cleaning;
2. All respirators maintained for use in emergency situations shall be inspected at least monthly and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, and shall be checked for proper function before and after each use; and
3. Emergency escape-only respirators shall be inspected before being carried into the workplace for use.
(B) The employer shall ensure that respirator inspections include the following:
1. A check of respirator function, tightness of connections, and the condition of the various parts including, but not limited to, the facepiece, head straps, valves, connecting tube, and cartridges, canisters or filters; and
2. A check of elastomeric parts for pliability and signs of deterioration.
(C) In addition to the requirements of subsections (h)(3)(A) and (B), self-contained breathing apparatus shall be inspected monthly. Air and oxygen cylinders shall be maintained in a fully charged state and shall be recharged when the pressure falls to 90% of the manufacturer's recommended pressure level. The employer shall determine that the regulator and warning devices function properly.
(D) For respirators maintained for emergency use, the employer shall:
1. Certify the respirator by documenting the date the inspection was performed, the name (or signature) of the person who made the inspection, the findings, required remedial action, and a serial number or other means of identifying the inspected respirator; and
2. Provide this information on a tag or label that is attached to the storage compartment for the respirator, is kept with the respirator, or is included in inspection reports stored as paper or electronic files. This information shall be maintained until replaced following a subsequent certification.
(4) Repairs. The employer shall ensure that respirators that fail an inspection or are otherwise found to be defective are removed from service, and are discarded or repaired or adjusted in accordance with the following procedures:
(A) Repairs or adjustments to respirators are to be made only by persons appropriately trained to perform such operations and shall use only the respirator manufacturer's NIOSH-approved parts designed for the respirator;
(B) Repairs shall be made according to the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications for the type and extent of repairs to be performed; and
(C) Reducing and admission valves, regulators, and alarms shall be adjusted or repaired only by the manufacturer or a technician trained by the manufacturer.
(i) Breathing air quality and use. This subsection requires the employer to provide employees using atmosphere-supplying respirators (supplied-air and SCBA) with breathing gases of high purity.
(1) The employer shall ensure that compressed air, compressed oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen used for respiration accords with the following specifications:
(A) Compressed and liquid oxygen shall meet the United States Pharmacopoeia requirements for medical or breathing oxygen; and
(B) Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air described in ANSI/Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989, to include:
1. Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%;
2. Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic meter of air or less;
3. Carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 ppm or less;
4. Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 ppm or less; and
5. Lack of noticeable odor.
(2) The employer shall ensure that compressed oxygen is not used in atmosphere-supplying respirators that have previously used compressed air.
(3) The employer shall ensure that oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5% are used only in equipment designed for oxygen service or distribution.
(4) The employer shall ensure that cylinders used to supply breathing air to respirators meet the following requirements:
(A) Cylinders are tested and maintained as prescribed in the Shipping Container Specification Regulations of the Department of Transportation (49 CFR part 173 and part 178);
(B) Cylinders of purchased breathing air have a certificate of analysis from the supplier that the breathing air meets the requirements for Grade D breathing air; and
(C) The moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a dew point of -50 deg.F (-45.6 deg.C) at 1 atmosphere pressure.
(5) The employer shall ensure that compressors used to supply breathing air to respirators are constructed and situated so as to:
(A) Prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supply system;
(B) Minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure is 10 degrees F (-5.56 deg.C) below the ambient temperature;
(C) Have suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters to further ensure breathing air quality. Sorbent beds and filters shall be maintained and replaced or refurbished periodically following the manufacturer's instructions.
(D) Have a tag containing the most recent change date and the signature of the person authorized by the employer to perform the change. The tag shall be maintained at the compressor.
(6) For compressors that are not oil-lubricated, the employer shall ensure that carbon monoxide levels in the breathing air do not exceed 10 ppm.
(7) For oil-lubricated compressors, the employer shall use a high-temperature or carbon monoxide alarm, or both, to monitor carbon monoxide levels. If only high-temperature alarms are used, the air supply shall be monitored at intervals sufficient to prevent carbon monoxide in the breathing air from exceeding 10 ppm.
(8) The employer shall ensure that breathing air couplings are incompatible with outlets for nonrespirable worksite air or other gas systems. No asphyxiating substance shall be introduced into breathing air lines.
(9) The employer shall use breathing gas containers marked in accordance with the NIOSH respirator certification standard, 42 CFR part 84.
(j) Identification of filters, cartridges, and canisters. The employer shall ensure that all filters, cartridges and canisters used in the workplace are labeled and color coded with the NIOSH approval label and that the label is not removed and remains legible.
(k) Training and information. This subsection requires the employer to provide effective training to employees who are required to use respirators. The training must be comprehensive, understandable, and recur annually, and more often if necessary. This subsection also requires the employer to provide the basic information on respirators in Appendix D to employees who wear respirators when not required by this section or by the employer to do so.
(1) The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate knowledge of at least the following:
(A) Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance can compromise the protective effect of the respirator;
(B) What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are;
(C) How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, including situations in which the respirator malfunctions;
(D) How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals of the respirator;
(E) What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator;
(F) How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirators; and
(G) The general requirements of this section.
(2) The training shall be conducted in a manner that is understandable to the employee.
(3) The employer shall provide the training prior to requiring the employee to use a respirator in the workplace.
(4) An employer who is able to demonstrate that a new employee has received training within the last 12 months that addresses the elements specified in subsection (k)(1)(A) through (G) is not required to repeat such training provided that, as required by subsection (k)(1), the employee can demonstrate knowledge of those element(s). Previous training not repeated initially by the employer must be provided no later than 12 months from the date of the previous training.
(5) Retraining shall be administered annually, and when the following situations occur:
(A) Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render previous training obsolete;
(B) Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the respirator indicate that the employee has not retained the requisite understanding or skill; or
(C) Any other situation arises in which retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.
(6) The basic advisory information on respirators, as presented in Appendix D, shall be provided by the employer in any written or oral format, to employees who wear respirators when such use is not required by this section or by the employer.
(l) Program evaluation. This section requires the employer to conduct evaluations of the workplace to ensure that the written respiratory protection program is being properly implemented, and to consult employees to ensure that they are using the respirators properly.
(1) The employer shall conduct evaluations of the workplace as necessary to ensure that the provisions of the current written program are being effectively implemented and that it continues to be effective.
(2) The employer shall regularly consult employees required to use respirators to assess the employees' views on program effectiveness and to identify any problems. Any problems that are identified during this assessment shall be corrected. Factors to be assessed include, but are not limited to:
(A) Respirator fit (including the ability to use the respirator without interfering with effective workplace performance);
(B) Appropriate respirator selection for the hazards to which the employee is exposed;
(C) Proper respirator use under the workplace conditions the employee encounters; and
(D) Proper respirator maintenance.
(m) Recordkeeping. This section requires the employer to establish and retain written information regarding medical evaluations, fit testing, and the respirator program. This information will facilitate employee involvement in the respirator program, assist the employer in auditing the adequacy of the program, and provide a record for compliance determinations by OSHA.
(1) Medical evaluation. Records of medical evaluations required by this section must be retained and made available in accordance with section 3204.
(2) Fit testing.
(A) The employer shall establish a record of the qualitative and quantitative fit tests administered to an employee including:
1. The name or identification of the employee tested;
2. Type of fit test performed;
3. Specific make, model, style, and size of respirator tested;
4. Date of test; and
5. The pass/fail results for QLFTs or the fit factor and strip chart recording or other recording of the test results for QNFTs.
(B) Fit test records shall be retained for respirator users until the next fit test is administered.
(3) A written copy of the current respirator program shall be retained by the employer.
(4) Written materials required to be retained under this subsection shall be made available upon request to affected employees and to the Chief or designee for examination and copying.
(n) Dates.
(1) Effective date. This section is effective November 23, 1998. The obligations imposed by this section commence on the effective date unless otherwise noted in this subsection. Compliance with obligations that do not commence on the effective date shall occur no later than the applicable start-up date.
(2) Compliance dates. All obligations of this section commence on the effective date except as follows:
(A) The determination that respirator use is required (subsection (a)) shall be completed no later than 150 days from the effective date.
(B) Compliance with provisions of this section for all other provisions shall be completed no later than 180 days from the effective date.
(3) Existing Respiratory Protection Programs. If, in the 12 month period preceding the effective date, the employer has conducted annual respirator training, fit testing, respirator program evaluation, or medical evaluations, the employer may use the results of those activities to comply with the corresponding provisions of this section, providing that these activities were conducted in a manner that meets the requirements of this section.
(o) Appendices. Compliance with Appendix A, Appendix B-1, Appendix B-2, Appendix C and Appendix D is mandatory.
Appendix A to Section 5144: Fit Testing Procedures (Mandatory)
Part I. OSHA-Accepted Fit Test Protocols
A. Fit Testing Procedures--General Requirements. The employer shall conduct fit testing using the following procedures. The requirements in this appendix apply to all OSHA-accepted fit test methods, both QLFT and QNFT.
1. The test subject shall be allowed to pick the most acceptable respirator from a sufficient number of respirator models and sizes so that the respirator is acceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.
2. Prior to the selection process, the test subject shall be shown how to put on a respirator, how it should be positioned on the face, how to set strap tension and how to determine an acceptable fit. A mirror shall be available to assist the subject in evaluating the fit and positioning of the respirator. This instruction may not constitute the subject's formal training on respirator use, because it is only a review.
3. The test subject shall be informed that he/she is being asked to select the respirator that provides the most acceptable fit. Each respirator represents a different size and shape, and if fitted and used properly, will provide adequate protection.
4. The test subject shall be instructed to hold each chosen facepiece up to the face and eliminate those that obviously do not give an acceptable fit.
5. The more acceptable facepieces are noted in case the one selected proves unacceptable; the most comfortable mask is donned and worn at least five minutes to assess comfort. Assistance in assessing comfort can be given by discussing the points in the following item A.6. If the test subject is not familiar with using a particular respirator, the test subject shall be directed to don the mask several times and to adjust the straps each time to become adept at setting proper tension on the straps.
6. Assessment of comfort shall include a review of the following points with the test subject and allowing the test subject adequate time to determine the comfort of the respirator:
(a) Position of the mask on the nose
(b) Room for eye protection
(c) Room to talk
(d) Position of mask on face and cheeks
7. The following criteria shall be used to help determine the adequacy of the respirator fit:
(a) Chin properly placed;
(b) Adequate strap tension, not overly tightened;
(c) Fit across nose bridge;
(d) Respirator of proper size to span distance from nose to chin;
(e) Tendency of respirator to slip;
(f) Self-observation in mirror to evaluate fit and respirator position.
8. The test subject shall conduct a user seal check, either the negative and positive pressure seal checks described in Appendix B-1 or those recommended by the respirator manufacturer which provide equivalent protection to the procedures in Appendix B-1. Before conducting the negative and positive pressure checks, the subject shall be told to seat the mask on the face by moving the head from side-to-side and up and down slowly while taking in a few slow deep breaths. Another facepiece shall be selected and retested if the test subject fails the user seal check tests.
9. The test shall not be conducted if there is any hair growth between the skin and the facepiece sealing surface, such as stubble beard growth, beard, mustache or sideburns which cross the respirator sealing surface. Any type of apparel which interferes with a satisfactory fit shall be altered or removed.
10. If a test subject exhibits difficulty in breathing during the tests, she or he shall be referred to a physician or other licensed health care professional, as appropriate, to determine whether the test subject can wear a respirator while performing her or his duties.
11. If the employee finds the fit of the respirator unacceptable, the test subject shall be given the opportunity to select a different respirator and to be retested.
12. Exercise regimen. Prior to the commencement of the fit test, the test subject shall be given a description of the fit test and the test subject's responsibilities during the test procedure. The description of the process shall include a description of the test exercises that the subject will be performing. The respirator to be tested shall be worn for at least 5 minutes before the start of the fit test.
13. The fit test shall be performed while the test subject is wearing any applicable safety equipment that may be worn during actual respirator use which could interfere with respirator fit.
14. Test Exercises.
(a) The following test exercises are to be performed for all fit testing methods prescribed in this appendix, except for the CNP method. A separate fit testing exercise regimen is contained in the CNP protocol. The test subject shall perform exercises, in the test environment, in the following manner:
(1) Normal breathing. In a normal standing position, without talking, the subject shall breathe normally.
(2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing position, the subject shall breathe slowly and deeply, taking caution so as not to hyperventilate.
(3) Turning head side to side. Standing in place, the subject shall slowly turn his/her head from side to side between the extreme positions on each side. The head shall be held at each extreme momentarily so the subject can inhale at each side.
(4) Moving head up and down. Standing in place, the subject shall slowly move his/her head up and down. The subject shall be instructed to inhale in the up position (i.e., when looking toward the ceiling).
(5) Talking. The subject shall talk out loud slowly and loud enough so as to be heard clearly by the test conductor. The subject can read from a prepared text such as the Rainbow Passage, count backward from 100, or recite a memorized poem or song.
Rainbow Passage
When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act like a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into many beautiful colors. These take the shape of a long round arch, with its path high above, and its two ends apparently beyond the horizon. There is, according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People look, but no one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
(6) Grimace. The test subject shall grimace by smiling or frowning. (This applies only to QNFT testing; it is not performed for QLFT)
(7) Bending over. The test subject shall bend at the waist as if he/she were to touch his/her toes. Jogging in place shall be substituted for this exercise in those test environments such as shroud type QNFT or QLFT units that do not permit bending over at the waist.
(8) Normal breathing. Same as exercise (1).
(b) Each test exercise shall be performed for one minute except for the grimace exercise which shall be performed for 15 seconds. The test subject shall be questioned by the test conductor regarding the comfort of the respirator upon completion of the protocol. If it has become unacceptable, another model of respirator shall be tried. The respirator shall not be adjusted once the fit test exercises begin. Any adjustment voids the test, and the fit test must be repeated.
B. Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT) Protocols
1. General
(a) The employer shall ensure that persons administering QLFT are able to prepare test solutions, calibrate equipment and perform tests properly, recognize invalid tests, and ensure that test equipment is in proper working order.
(b) The employer shall ensure that QLFT equipment is kept clean and well maintained so as to operate within the parameters for which it was designed.
2. Isoamyl Acetate Protocol
Note: This protocol is not appropriate to use for the fit testing of particulate respirators. If used to fit test particulate respirators, the respirator must be equipped with an organic vapor filter.
(a) Odor Threshold Screening. Odor threshold screening, performed without wearing a respirator, is intended to determine if the individual tested can detect the odor of isoamyl acetate at low levels.
(1) Three 1 liter glass jars with metal lids are required.
(2) Odor-free water (e.g., distilled or spring water) at approximately 25 deg. C (77 deg. F) shall be used for the solutions.
(3) The isoamyl acetate (IAA) (also known at isopentyl acetate) stock solution is prepared by adding 1 ml of pure IAA to 800 ml of odor-free water in a 1 liter jar, closing the lid and shaking for 30 seconds. A new solution shall be prepared at least weekly.
(4) The screening test shall be conducted in a room separate from the room used for actual fit testing. The two rooms shall be well-ventilated to prevent the odor of IAA from becoming evident in the general room air where testing takes place.
(5) The odor test solution is prepared in a second jar by placing 0.4 ml of the stock solution into 500 ml of odor-free water using a clean dropper or pipette. The solution shall be shaken for 30 seconds and allowed to stand for two to three minutes so that the IAA concentration above the liquid may reach equilibrium. This solution shall be used for only one day.
(6) A test blank shall be prepared in a third jar by adding 500 cc of odor-free water.
(7) The odor test and test blank jar lids shall be labeled (e.g., 1 and 2) for jar identification. Labels shall be placed on the lids so that they can be peeled off periodically and switched to maintain the integrity of the test.
(8) The following instruction shall be typed on a card and placed on the table in front of the two test jars (i.e., 1 and 2): "The purpose of this test is to determine if you can smell banana oil at a low concentration. The two bottles in front of you contain water. One of these bottles also contains a small amount of banana oil. Be sure the covers are on tight, then shake each bottle for two seconds. Unscrew the lid of each bottle, one at a time, and sniff at the mouth of the bottle. Indicate to the test conductor which bottle contains banana oil."
(9) The mixtures used in the IAA odor detection test shall be prepared in an area separate from where the test is performed, in order to prevent olfactory fatigue in the subject.
(10) If the test subject is unable to correctly identify the jar containing the odor test solution, the IAA qualitative fit test shall not be performed.
(11) If the test subject correctly identifies the jar containing the odor test solution, the test subject may proceed to respirator selection and fit testing.
(b) Isoamyl Acetate Fit Test
(1) The fit test chamber shall be a clear 55-gallon drum liner suspended inverted over a 2-foot diameter frame so that the top of the chamber is about 6 inches above the test subject's head. If no drum liner is available, a similar chamber shall be constructed using plastic sheeting. The inside top center of the chamber shall have a small hook attached.
(2) Each respirator used for the fitting and fit testing shall be equipped with organic vapor cartridges or offer protection against organic vapors.
(3) After selecting, donning, and properly adjusting a respirator, the test subject shall wear it to the fit testing room. This room shall be separate from the room used for odor threshold screening and respirator selection, and shall be well-ventilated, as by an exhaust fan or lab hood, to prevent general room contamination.
(4) A copy of the test exercises and any prepared text from which the subject is to read shall be taped to the inside of the test chamber.
(5) Upon entering the test chamber, the test subject shall be given a 6-inch by 5-inch piece of paper towel, or other porous, absorbent, single-ply material, folded in half and wetted with 0.75 ml of pure IAA. The test subject shall hang the wet towel on the hook at the top of the chamber. An IAA test swab or ampule may be substituted for the IAA wetted paper towel provided it has been demonstrated that the alternative IAA source will generate an IAA test atmosphere with a concentration equivalent to that generated by the paper towel method.
(6) Allow two minutes for the IAA test concentration to stabilize before starting the fit test exercises. This would be an appropriate time to talk with the test subject; to explain the fit test, the importance of his/her cooperation, and the purpose for the test exercises; or to demonstrate some of the exercises.
(7) If at any time during the test, the subject detects the banana-like odor of IAA, the test is failed. The subject shall quickly exit from the test chamber and leave the test area to avoid olfactory fatigue.
(8) If the test is failed, the subject shall return to the selection room and remove the respirator. The test subject shall repeat the odor sensitivity test, select and put on another respirator, return to the test area and again begin the fit test procedure described in (b) (1) through (7) above. The process continues until a respirator that fits well has been found. Should the odor sensitivity test be failed, the subject shall wait at least 5 minutes before retesting. Odor sensitivity will usually have returned by this time.
(9) If the subject passes the test, the efficiency of the test procedure shall be demonstrated by having the subject break the respirator face seal and take a breath before exiting the chamber.
(10) When the test subject leaves the chamber, the subject shall remove the saturated towel and return it to the person conducting the test, so that there is no significant IAA concentration buildup in the chamber during subsequent tests. The used towels shall be kept in a self-sealing plastic bag to keep the test area from being contaminated.
3. Saccharin Solution Aerosol Protocol. The entire screening and testing procedure shall be explained to the test subject prior to the conduct of the screening test.
(a) Taste threshold screening. The saccharin taste threshold screening, performed without wearing a respirator, is intended to determine whether the individual being tested can detect the taste of saccharin.
(1) During threshold screening as well as during fit testing, subjects shall wear an enclosure about the head and shoulders that is approximately 12 inches in diameter by 14 inches tall with at least the front portion clear and that allows free movements of the head when a respirator is worn. An enclosure substantially similar to the 3M hood assembly, parts # FT 14 and # FT 15 combined, is adequate.
(2) The test enclosure shall have a 3/4-inch (1.9 cm) hole in front of the test subject's nose and mouth area to accommodate the nebulizer nozzle.
(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure. Throughout the threshold screening test, the test subject shall breathe through his/her slightly open mouth with tongue extended. The subject is instructed to report when he/she detects a sweet taste.
(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or equivalent, the test conductor shall spray the threshold check solution into the enclosure. The nozzle is directed away from the nose and mouth of the person. This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the fit test solution nebulizer.
(5) The threshold check solution is prepared by dissolving 0.83 gram of sodium saccharin USP in 100 ml of warm water. It can be prepared by putting 1 ml of the fit test solution (see (b)(5) below) in 100 ml of distilled water.
(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb is firmly squeezed so that it collapses completely, then released and allowed to fully expand.
(7) Ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and then the test subject is asked whether the saccharin can be tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the sweet taste during the ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as ten regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(8) If the first response is negative, ten more squeezes are repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the saccharin is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the sweet taste during the second ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as twenty regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(9) If the second response is negative, ten more squeezes are repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the saccharin is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the sweet taste during the third set of ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as thirty regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(10) The test conductor will take note of the number of squeezes required to solicit a taste response.
(11) If the saccharin is not tasted after 30 squeezes (step 10), the test subject is unable to taste saccharin and may not perform the saccharin fit test.
Note to subsection 3. (a): If the test subject eats or drinks something sweet before the screening test, he/she may be unable to taste the weak saccharin solution.
(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test subject shall be asked to take note of the taste for reference in the fit test.
(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that approximately 1 ml of liquid is used at a time in the nebulizer body.
(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed in water, shaken dry, and refilled at least each morning and afternoon or at least every four hours.
(b) Saccharin solution aerosol fit test procedure.
(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (except plain water), smoke, or chew gum for 15 minutes before the test.
(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure described in 3. (a) above.
(3) The test subject shall don the enclosure while wearing the respirator selected in section I. A. of this appendix. The respirator shall be properly adjusted and equipped with a particulate filter(s).
(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or equivalent is used to spray the fit test solution into the enclosure. This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the screening test solution nebulizer.
(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 83 grams of sodium saccharin to 100 ml of warm water.
(6) As before, the test subject shall breathe through the slightly open mouth with tongue extended, and report if he/she tastes the sweet taste of saccharin.
(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in the front of the enclosure and an initial concentration of saccharin fit test solution is sprayed into the enclosure using the same number of squeezes (either 10, 20 or 30 squeezes) based on the number of squeezes required to elicit a taste response as noted during the screening test. A minimum of 10 squeezes is required.
(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subject shall be instructed to perform the exercises in section I. A. 14. of this appendix.
(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentration shall be replenished using one half the original number of squeezes used initially (e.g., 5, 10 or 15).
(10) The test subject shall indicate to the test conductor if at any time during the fit test the taste of saccharin is detected. If the test subject does not report tasting the saccharin, the test is passed.
(11) If the taste of saccharin is detected, the fit is deemed unsatisfactory and the test is failed. A different respirator shall be tried and the entire test procedure is repeated (taste threshold screening and fit testing).
(12) Since the nebulizer has a tendency to clog during use, the test operator must make periodic checks of the nebulizer to ensure that it is not clogged. If clogging is found at the end of the test session, the test is invalid.
4. BitrexTM (Denatonium Benzoate) Solution Aerosol Qualitative Fit Test Protocol. The BitrexTM (Denatonium benzoate) solution aerosol QLFT protocol uses the published saccharin test protocol because that protocol is widely accepted. Bitrex is routinely used as a taste aversion agent in household liquids which children should not be drinking and is endorsed by the American Medical Association, the National Safety Council, and the American Association of Poison Control Centers. The entire screening and testing procedure shall be explained to the test subject prior to the conduct of the screening test.
(a) Taste Threshold Screening. The Bitrex taste threshold screening, performed without wearing a respirator, is intended to determine whether the individual being tested can detect the taste of Bitrex.
(1) During threshold screening as well as during fit testing, subjects shall wear an enclosure about the head and shoulders that is approximately 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter by 14 inches (35.6 cm) tall. The front portion of the enclosure shall be clear from the respirator and allow free movement of the head when a respirator is worn. An enclosure substantially similar to the 3M hood assembly, parts #14 and #15 combined, is adequate.
(2) The test enclosure shall have a 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) hole in front of the test subject's nose and mouth area to accommodate the nebulizer nozzle.
(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure. Throughout the threshold screening test, the test subject shall breathe through his or her slightly open mouth with tongue extended. The subject is instructed to report when he/she detects a bitter taste.
(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or equivalent, the test conductor shall spray the Threshold Check Solution into the enclosure. This Nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the fit test solution nebulizer.
(5) The Threshold Check Solution is prepared by adding 13.5 milligrams of Bitrex to 100 ml of 5% salt (NaCl) solution in distilled water.
(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb is firmly squeezed so that the bulb collapses completely, and is then released and allowed to fully expand.
(7) An initial ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and then the test subject is asked whether the Bitrex can be tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the bitter taste during the ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as ten regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(8) If the first response is negative, ten more squeezes are repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the Bitrex is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the bitter taste during the second ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as twenty regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(9) If the second response is negative, ten more squeezes are repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the Bitrex is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the bitter taste during the third set of ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as thirty regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.
(10) The test conductor will take note of the number of squeezes required to solicit a taste response.
(11) If the Bitrex is not tasted after 30 squeezes (step 10), the test subject is unable to taste Bitrex and may not perform the Bitrex fit test.
(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test subject shall be asked to take note of the taste for reference in the fit test.
(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that approximately 1 ml of liquid is used at a time in the nebulizer body.
(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed in water, shaken to dry, and refilled at least each morning and afternoon or at least every four hours.
(b) Bitrex Solution Aerosol Fit Test Procedure.
(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (except plain water), smoke, or chew gum for 15 minutes before the test.
(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure as that described in 4. (a) above.
(3) The test subject shall don the enclosure while wearing the respirator selected according to section I. A. of this appendix. The respirator shall be properly adjusted and equipped with any type particulate filter(s).
(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or equivalent is used to spray the fit test solution into the enclosure. This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the screening test solution nebulizer.
(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 337.5 mg of Bitrex to 200 ml of a 5% salt (NaCl) solution in warm water.
(6) As before, the test subject shall breathe through his or her slightly open mouth with tongue extended, and be instructed to report if he/she tastes the bitter taste of Bitrex.
(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in the front of the enclosure and an initial concentration of the fit test solution is sprayed into the enclosure using the same number of squeezes (either 10, 20 or 30 squeezes) based on the number of squeezes required to elicit a taste response as noted during the screening test.
(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subject shall be instructed to perform the exercises in section I. A. 14. of this appendix.
(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentration shall be replenished using one half the number of squeezes used initially (e.g., 5, 10 or 15).
(10) The test subject shall indicate to the test conductor if at any time during the fit test the taste of Bitrex is detected. If the test subject does not report tasting the Bitrex, the test is passed.
(11) If the taste of Bitrex is detected, the fit is deemed unsatisfactory and the test is failed. A different respirator shall be tried and the entire test procedure is repeated (taste threshold screening and fit testing).
5. Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride) Protocol. This qualitative fit test uses a person's response to the irritating chemicals released in the "smoke" produced by a stannic chloride ventilation smoke tube to detect leakage into the respirator.
(a) General Requirements and Precautions
(1) The respirator to be tested shall be equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or P100 series filter(s).
(2) Only stannic chloride smoke tubes shall be used for this protocol.
(3) No form of test enclosure or hood for the test subject shall be used.
(4) The smoke can be irritating to the eyes, lungs, and nasal passages. The test conductor shall take precautions to minimize the test subject's exposure to irritant smoke. Sensitivity varies, and certain individuals may respond to a greater degree to irritant smoke. Care shall be taken when performing the sensitivity screening checks that determine whether the test subject can detect irritant smoke to use only the minimum amount of smoke necessary to elicit a response from the test subject.
(5) The fit test shall be performed in an area with adequate ventilation to prevent exposure of the person conducting the fit test or the build-up of irritant smoke in the general atmosphere.
(b) Sensitivity Screening Check. The person to be tested must demonstrate his or her ability to detect a weak concentration of the irritant smoke.
(1) The test operator shall break both ends of a ventilation smoke tube containing stannic chloride, and attach one end of the smoke tube to a low flow air pump set to deliver 200 milliliters per minute, or an aspirator squeeze bulb. The test operator shall cover the other end of the smoke tube with a short piece of tubing to prevent potential injury from the jagged end of the smoke tube.
(2) The test operator shall advise the test subject that the smoke can be irritating to the eyes, lungs, and nasal passages and instruct the subject to keep his/her eyes closed while the test is performed.
(3) The test subject shall be allowed to smell a weak concentration of the irritant smoke before the respirator is donned to become familiar with its irritating properties and to determine if he/she can detect the irritating properties of the smoke. The test operator shall carefully direct a small amount of the irritant smoke in the test subject's direction to determine that he/she can detect it.
(c) Irritant Smoke Fit Test Procedure
(1) The person being fit tested shall don the respirator without assistance, and perform the required user seal check(s).
(2) The test subject shall be instructed to keep his/her eyes closed.
(3) The test operator shall direct the stream of irritant smoke from the smoke tube toward the faceseal area of the test subject, using the low flow pump or the squeeze bulb. The test operator shall begin at least 12 inches from the facepiece and move the smoke stream around the whole perimeter of the mask. The operator shall gradually make two more passes around the perimeter of the mask, moving to within six inches of the respirator.
(4) If the person being tested has not had an involuntary response and/or detected the irritant smoke, proceed with the test exercises.
(5) The exercises identified in section I.A. 14. of this appendix shall be performed by the test subject while the respirator seal is being continually challenged by the smoke, directed around the perimeter of the respirator at a distance of six inches.
(6) If the person being fit tested reports detecting the irritant smoke at any time, the test is failed. The person being retested must repeat the entire sensitivity check and fit test procedure.
(7) Each test subject passing the irritant smoke test without evidence of a response (involuntary cough, irritation) shall be given a second sensitivity screening check, with the smoke from the same smoke tube used during the fit test, once the respirator has been removed, to determine whether he/she still reacts to the smoke. Failure to evoke a response shall void the fit test.
(8) If a response is produced during this second sensitivity check, then the fit test is passed.
C. Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT) Protocols. The following quantitative fit testing procedures have been demonstrated to be acceptable: Quantitative fit testing using a non-hazardous test aerosol (such as corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400 [PEG 400], di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate [DEHS], or sodium chloride) generated in a test chamber, and employing instrumentation to quantify the fit of the respirator; Quantitative fit testing using ambient aerosol as the test agent and appropriate instrumentation (condensation nuclei counter) to quantify the respirator fit; Quantitative fit testing using controlled negative pressure and appropriate instrumentation to measure the volumetric leak rate of a facepiece to quantify the respirator fit.
1. General
(a) The employer shall ensure that person