In-Use Monitoring
The wearer must understand all aspects of the clothing operation and its limitations.
A full understandding of the procedudre is especially important for fully-encapsulating ensembles where misuse could potentially result in suffocation.
Once the equipment has been donned, evaluate it for proper fit.
- If the clothing is too small, it will restrict movement, thereby increasing the likelihood of tearing the suit material and accelerating worker fatigue.
- If the clothing is too large, the possibility of snagging the material is increased, and the dexterity and coordination of the worker may be compromised.
In either case, the worker should be recalled and better fitting clothing provided.
During equipment use, workers should be encouraged to report any perceived problems or difficulties to their supervisors. These malfunctions include, but are not limited to:
- degradation of the protective ensemble
- perception of odors
- skin irritation
- unusual residues on PPE
- discomfort
- resistance to breathing
- fatigue due to respirator use
- interference with vision or communication
- restriction of movement
- personal responses such as rapid pulse, nausea, and chest pain
If a supplied-air respirator is being used, all hazards which might endanger the integrity of the air line should be removed from the working area before use. During use, air lines should be kept as short as possible, and other workers and vehicles should be excluded from the area.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-5. Bill is part of an evaluation team wearing level-B protective clothing. Once he has donned his clothing, what should he be evaluated for?
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