Introduction
The aim of this toolbox talk is to increase staff awareness of the correct maintenance for respiratory protective equipment.
The use of regular toolbox talks, if done effectively, will significantly improve the safety culture within your organisation. This will increase the safety awareness of the workers, and as a result reduce the likelihood of accidents and unsafe occurrences.
Legislation references
- Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002
Respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
Respiratory protective equipment (known as RPE) is aimed to help you breathe. It’s therefore essential to take good care of it. There are several types of RPE current in use today, these include:
- Full face mask respirators against particles only.
- Full face mask respirators against gases / vapors.
- Powered (fan-assisted) respirators with masks.
- Fresh air hose (FAH) BA (breathing apparatus).
- Constant flow airline BA with a mask.
- Demand valve BA.
Essential information for all users
- Read the manufacturers instructions and follow any training you have been given.
- Keep RPE clean and in good working order.
- Ensure your RPE is maintained at least once every 3 months.
- Ensure valves, face seals and worn or damaged parts on respirators are replaced.
- Valves need particular attention if they are likely to be contaminated by sprays, chemical etc.
- Store RPE only in designated storage areas.
- Discuss with your manager where a stock of replaceable parts is available at.
- Always check the expiry dates on RPE.
- Air quality to air-fed RPE must be checked regularly.
- Check air flow before each use.
- Check air intakes for mobile equipment to ensure contaminants cannot be drawn in.