Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00418:body:0:p32
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00418
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 82530–85468

in the asbestos removal area and until the appropriate stage of personal decontamination.
Asbestos removalists or asbestos removal supervisors must ensure all workers undertaking any asbestos removal work receive instruction and training in:
    * fit testing/checking
    * the importance of a correct facial fit
    * the correct method of using their respirators
    * the procedures for regular cleaning, inspection and maintenance of respirators before use
    * when to stop asbestos removal work and leave the area if they think their RPE is not working properly.

The respirator must be worn in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the coverall hood must go over the respirator straps. It should be examined in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions before use to ensure that it is not damaged and is in good working order. Respirator defects should be reported immediately to the asbestos removal supervisor.
The pre-use examination should include an inspection of:
    * the condition of the straps and face piece, including the seal and the nose piece
    * the condition of the exhalation valve
    * a fit check.
Non-disposable respirators should be cleaned, disinfected and stored in a safe place away from the asbestos-contaminated removal area.
The length of time a particulate filter can be used for the asbestos removal work depends on the resistance to breathing and damage to the filter. The filter should be replaced if damaged or when resistance increases. A damaged filter must be replaced before resistance begins to increase.
The replacement should be according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Certain brands of filters may not be usable after being exposed to certain conditions such as a full decontamination shower. Specific advice should be sought from the supplier regarding the effectiveness of a filter after being subjected to certain conditions.
All parts, including filters, valves and seals, should be inspected before and after each use. Respirator defects should be reported immediately to the supervisor for repair or replacement.
A system of regular cleaning, inspection and maintenance of non-disposable respirators should be in place to ensure they are clean and in a safe working condition.
Records of all respirator issues, uses and maintenance should be kept up-to-date.
At the end of a shift or at a break, as part of the decontamination process, ensure the respirator is taken off last.

Air-line respirators
Air-line respirators are used when the asbestos being removed is friable. When in use, the air-line should incorporate a belt-mounted back-up filter. If a failure of the air supply system occurs, workers should leave the asbestos removal work area using normal decontamination procedures; the use of a back-up belt-mounted filter device allows for adequate respiratory protection during this process.
If the number of workers wearing air-line respirators