Respiratory Protection FAQ’s

Respiratory Protection FAQ’s

How do respirators protect you?

1. They filter out contamination from the air
2. They give you clean air from an exterior source
3. They stop you from inhaling dust and vapour

 

What do respiratory protective filters protect you against?

1. Dust like what’s produced while sanding or working with cement
2. Mist and aerosols such as aerosol paints
3. Bioaerosols like bacteria and pollen
4. Fumes like those produced when welding
5. Fibers such as asbestos

Why should PPE fit properly?

1. Poorly fitted equipment does not protect you the way it should 
2. Loosely fitted clothing can present a snag hazard
3. If respiratory protection is not fitted correctly, you may inhale hazardous substances

When should Respiratory Protection fit tests be performed?

• 1. Before using a different model, make, size or style of respirator is used.
  2. If the wearer has had any facial changes occur. Like weight fluctuations or dental or facial surgery.
  3. Twice a year.

 

Which aspects should you consider when choosing respiratory protection?

1. Facial characteristics
2. Work environment
3. Visibility
4. Communication
5. Mobility

 

Why you need respiratory protection when welding?

1. Welders have an increased risk of bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung function changes
2. Welding fumes contain small particles of metal that stick to the lungs and solidify when inhaled
3. Welding produces harmful gases and vapours such as carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen oxides, gaseous fluoride, and phosgene

 

What factors do you need to consider when choosing a respiratory protection filter?

1. The substances you need protection against
2. The concentration of these substances
3. Whether you are in an open or closed environment
4. The length of your exposure

 

What are the steps to follow for setting up a respiratory program?

1. Exposure assessment
2. Written program
3. Respirator selection
4. Medical evaluation
5. Fit testing
6. Training and maintenance

 

What is the difference between category 1, 2 and 3 of PPE?

• Category 1: Basic in design, used for minor risks, e.g., Gardening or cleaning gloves.
• Category 2: Intermediate in design, used to protect against injuries, certified by a notified body, e.g., flame-retardant overalls.
• Category 3: Complex in design, used to protect against loss of life or life-changing injuries, certified compliant and tested by a notified body, e.g., Arc-flash PPE.