What you need to know
The Respiratory Protection Program outlines the requirements and the University’s procedures for using respiratory protection in a safe and effective way that is compliant with applicable regulations.
This program has several key parts:
Identifying need for respiratory protection
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EH&S will conduct a respiratory hazard evaluation, either for the general work environment or for a specific task. Based on the hazard evaluation, EH&S will determine if respirator use is required or voluntary. Sometimes EH&S will decide not to recommend respirators because exposures can be mitigated with other controls or work practices.
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You may also be part of an existing user group that has established required respiratory protection for certain work tasks.
Medical clearance
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Medical clearance is required before you can wear a respirator. Wearing respirators can put additional stress on the heart and lungs, and may cause some to feel anxiety or claustrophobia.
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The UW Employee Health Center performs the medical clearance. You fill out a simple, confidential questionnaire that will only be reviewed by Employee Health Center staff.
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If you are not medically cleared, you are not authorized to work in an environment where respirators are required.
Training
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Online training is available for some commonly used respirator types. In-person training is also offered for specific user groups as appropriate.
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You will receive training on the hazards, limitations and capabilities of the respirators assigned, and how to properly inspect, use, clean and store them.
Fit testing
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Fit testing is a quantitative or qualitative test performed by EH&S to determine if a specific make, model and size of respirator fits your face. Specifically, this test verifies that a mask doesn’t leak and provides adequate protection.
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If you are required to wear a tight-fitting respirator (e.g., N95 or half-face elastomeric respirator), you must be fit tested.
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Facial hair may interfere with a tight-fitting respirator’s seal; you should be clean-shaven in order to effectively wear these respirators.
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Loose-fitting respirators (e.g. powered air-purifying respirators) require hands-on training instead of a fit test.
If you are required to use a respirator, you must be trained and fit tested every 12 months.