Before you use a respirator, you should always do the following:
Speak to your supervisor if there’s any reason why you can safely wear your respirator (such as a change in medical condition or facial hair that may affect the integrity of the seal).
Use the respirator, filter, and cartridges as they have been assigned. They have been chosen because they will protect you from the hazards that may be there while you’re performing the task.
Make sure the respirator is clean and in good condition before each use.
You also want to inspect any kind of Draeger respiratory equipment for the following:
The condition of the parts for cracks, tears, holes, distortions, or warping.
The tightness of the connections.
The end-of-service life indicator (if it’s present) or shelf-life dates.
The proper functioning of the alarms or any other warning systems (if they’re present).
You should know how to determine if the filters have reached their end-of-service ability, and don’t wear any respirator that you think is defective.