Respirator selection will be made by DEHS staff in cooperation with the reviewing health care professional. Monitoring results and recommendations will be provided to the employing department and affected individuals. Use of an air supplied respirator requires a written SOP and compliance with confined space entry procedures when a hazardous atmosphere is present. When disposable respirators are issued, the worker will be tested with the make, size and model that will be worn. Fit testing must be repeated whenever something happens that could affect the fit such as a facial injury, weight change or the respirator's design changes.
Fit testing is required when routine fit checks suggest a poor fit.
Fit testing may be performed by DEHS staff or a designated individual. Workmen with facial hair in the respirator seal area will not be issued a respirator requiring a fit test. A good fit is essential to safe respirator use. Annual fit testing is required for workers exposed to benzene and formaldehyde and semi-annual fit testing is required for workers exposed to asbestos, arsenic, lead, or acrylonitrile. The respiratory program administrator must assure that the respirators are appropriately maintained and repaired or replaced as needed.