PERSONAL PROTECTION
RE ARE MANY REASONS SOME CHOOSE NOT TO
R RPE, INCLUDING LIMITED ESS TO EQUIPMENT, USER OMFORT AND A LACK OF RENESS OF HEALTH RISKS.”
the wearer the level of protection assumed simply because it does not fit properly. While RPE is designed and certified to accommodate a wide range of face shapes and sizes, based on anthropomorphic databases, facial morphology is not the sole determination of fit. For example, tight-fitting RPE will only provide effective protection if the wearer is clean shaven. Therefore, if workers require a tight-fitting face- piece as part of their job, employers need to make sure that each wearer undergoes a fit test.
Regular fit testing verifies the ability of the end user to don RPE and obtain a satisfactory fit factor. When fit testing users, alternative sizes and models should be provided to ensure the most appropriate and best performing choice is made, tailored to the individual. Employers undertaking fit testing should ensure that their employees are suitably trained or that they contract a qualified specialist provider, as a substantial level of competency is required to fit test an RPE wearer effectively.
Employers are also expected to provide training for end users in general RPE use, in addition to specific use instructions for their selected RPE. Manufacturers of RPE
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are able to assist in this process by providing training aids both in physical copy and online. They also often provide training services, including certification where the level of protection selected requires it, such as with breathing apparatus.
“UP TO 50% OF ALL RPE USED DOES NOT OFFER THE WEARER THE LEVEL OF PROTECTION ASSUMED SIMPLY BECAUSE IT DOES NOT FIT PROPERLY.”
UPKEEP AND STORAGE It is just as important to ensure that RPE is regularly inspected and maintained in addition to providing proper storage to prevent damage and contamination. Manufacturer’s guidelines will provide details on how this should be done. An effective RPE programme needs to provide a suitable area for cleaning, maintaining and storing RPE between uses. This should be done in a clean area away from the workplace hazard; ideally employers should provide enclosed lockers or boxes and a suitable hanging facility, if appropriate for the
type of RPE. If filters are to be re-used they will usually be removed from the RPE and stored in a plastic bag/box in a clean, dry environment away from contamination. Other parts of RPE that are either washed or wiped clean require an area to dry naturally before being stored. In some instances, depending on the type of chemical hazard, filters must also be changed out after each shift.
Technology is continuously in development and new products are available every year. It is therefore important to reflect this in your respiratory protection programme. A versatile range of ergonomically designed headtops and masks are available to provide comfort and offer high levels of protection for industrial end users in a range of potentially hazardous workplace environments. Available ranges include flip-up visors and face shields, half mask and full face mask options in addition to half and full head tops, all incorporating the highest levels of protection alongside the latest equipment and design to increase wearer acceptability.
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