654 Lead Safety in General Industry

Inspection Requirements

Respiratory protection is no better than the respirator in use, even though it is worn correctly. Frequent random inspections must be conducted by a qualified individual to make sure respirators are properly selected, used, cleaned, and maintained.

All respirators: For all respirators, inspections must include 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.

It's especially important to evaluate elastomeric parts for pliability and signs of deterioration.

Inspecting Respirators

• inspect SCBAs monthly;
• inspect respirators that are used routinely before each use and during cleaning;
• replace any worn or deteriorated parts;
• be sure to thoroughly inspect SCBAs for emergency use at least once a month and after each use;
• the program administrator should keep a record of emergency respirator inspections. Records should include dates, serial numbers, findings, any remedial action;
• make sure air and oxygen cylinders are fully charged according to the manufacturer's instructions. They should be recharged if pressure falls to 90% of the manufacturer's recommended pressure;
• make sure the regulator and warning devices function properly;
• check the tightness of connections and the condition of the facepiece, headbands, valves, connecting tube, and canisters;
• inspect rubber or elastomer (elastic rubber) parts for pliability and signs of deterioration;
• stretch and manipulate rubber or elastomer parts with a massaging action to keep them pliable and flexible and prevent them from taking a set during storage; and
• a record must be kept of inspection dates and findings for respirators maintained for emergency use.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.