RESPIRATOR EXAMS
Getting The Right Fit
Here at Working at Height Limited we are committed to delivering top-quality Face Fit-Testing services to help companies comply with legislation and industry regulations. Working at Height Limited specializes in offering comprehensive on-site RPE face Fit-Testing both Comprehensive Quantitative and Qualitative Fit-Testing.
Our team of experienced and highly qualified accredited fit testers utilizes cutting-edge technology, including the latest TSI Portacount Pro testing equipment, to ensure the most accurate and reliable results. With Working at Height Limited, you can rely on our team of professionals who are equipped with state-of-the-art testing equipment to deliver outstanding mask integrity testing services. We prioritize the integrity of masks for optimal respiratory protection.
Fit Testing
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is a particular type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), used to protect the individual wearer against the inhalation of hazardous substances in the workplace air. Where RPE is used it must be able to provide adequate protection for individual wearers. RPE cannot protect the wearer if it leaks. A major cause of leakage is poorly fitting masks. Tight-fitting facepieces need to fit the wearer’s face to be effective. This is carried out through Fit Testing. RPE not worn or selected appropriately is totally ineffective and may give the user a false sense of protection.
The correct selection of appropriate RPE for the task undertaken is one of the most important steps in the RPE lifecycle process. Failing to select, fit-test, use, store and maintain correct RPE will lead to exposure of hazardous substance(s) at work.
WHAT IS A RESPIRATOR MEDICAL EVALUATION?
A respirator medical evaluation is a health assessment that determines if an employee is medically fit to wear a respirator on the job. Also known as a respirator medical clearance, this evaluation helps to protect employees’ health at work and ensures workplace compliance with respiratory protection standards established by International, National and Local Authority’s.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPIRATOR Exams
Respirator medical evaluations are designed to ensure employees exposed to respirable toxins are properly protected. The results of the respirator medical evaluation also help employers make informed decisions about which employees can use respirators under specific environmental conditions and physical demands. Some medical conditions can make it difficult for an employee to wear a respirator at work. A respirator medical evaluation can help detect if wearing a respirator will limit or interfere with:
- Breathing
- Vision
- Communication
- Use of other required equipment
HOW RESPIRATOR MEDICAL EVALUATIONS WORK
A respirator medical evaluation requires an employee to complete an OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire. A physician or other licensed health care provider (PLHCP) reviews the questionnaire responses to determine if the employee has any symptoms or conditions that could undermine the effectiveness of a respirator. A follow-up medical exam and testing may also be performed before rendering a final decision.
RESPIRATOR MEDICAL EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS
To meet the required standards for respirator medical evaluation, an employer must complete an Employer Authorization and Information for Respiratory Evaluation Form and include the following information:
- Respirator type and weight
- Respirator use duration and frequency
- Expected work effort
- Expected temperature and humidity conditions
- Respiratory protection plan
- Other required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Part of gaining respirator medical clearance requires knowing when a respirator medical evaluation must be performed. Respirator clearance is necessary when there is a change in:
- An employee’s respirator
- An employee’s health
- Workplace environmental conditions
Respirator medical evaluations are recommended to be updated every one to two years, depending on respirator type, job type, the employee’s health status, environmental conditions, and other regulatory requirements.