Chapter 296-842 WAC:

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Chapter 296-842 WAC

Last Update: 9/5/17

RESPIRATORS

WAC Sections

HTML PDF	296-842-100	Scope and application.
HTML PDF	296-842-10200	Definitions.
HTML PDF	296-842-10505	Designate a program administrator.
HTML PDF	296-842-11005	Make sure voluntary use of respirators is safe.
HTML PDF	296-842-11010	Keep voluntary use program records.
HTML PDF	296-842-12005	Develop and maintain a written program.
HTML PDF	296-842-12010	Keep respirator program records.
HTML PDF	296-842-13005	Select and provide appropriate respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-14005	Provide medical evaluations.
HTML PDF	296-842-15005	Conduct fit testing.
HTML PDF	296-842-16005	Provide effective training.
HTML PDF	296-842-17005	Maintain respirators in a clean and reliable condition.
HTML PDF	296-842-17010	Store respirators properly.
HTML PDF	296-842-17015	Inspect and repair respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-18005	Prevent sealing problems with tight-fitting respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-18010	Make sure employees leave the use area before removing respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-19005	Provide standby assistance in immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions.
HTML PDF	296-842-20005	Make sure breathing air and oxygen meet established specifications.
HTML PDF	296-842-20010	Prevent conditions that could create a hazardous breathing air supply.
HTML PDF	296-842-20015	Make sure compressors do not create a hazardous breathing air supply.
HTML PDF	296-842-21005	Keep labels readable on respirator filters, cartridges, and canisters during use.
HTML PDF	296-842-22005	Use this medical questionnaire for medical evaluations.
HTML PDF	296-842-22010	Follow these fit-testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-22015	Follow procedures established for cleaning and disinfecting respirators.
HTML PDF	296-842-22020	Follow procedures established for seal checking respirators.

DISPOSITION OF SECTIONS FORMERLY CODIFIED IN THIS TITLE


296-842-105	Respirator program administrator. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-105, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-110	Voluntary respirator use requirements. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-110, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-110, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 09-19-119, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z.
296-842-120	Written respirator program and recordkeeping. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-120, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-130	Respirator selection. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-130, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-140	Medical evaluations. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-140, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-150	Fit testing. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-150, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-160	Training. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-160, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-170	Maintenance. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-170, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-180	Safe use and removal of respirators. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-180, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-190	Standby requirements for immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-190, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-200	Air quality for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and air-line respirators. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-200, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-210	Labeling of air-purifying respirator filters, cartridges, and canisters. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-210, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-220	Required procedures for respiratory protection program. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-220, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 07-05-072, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060.
296-842-300	Definitions. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-300, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-300, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.] Repealed by WSR 09-19-119, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z.

PDF296-842-100

Scope and application.

(1) Respirators are required whenever respiratory hazards (including oxygen-deficient conditions) are present. For example, use respirators at any of the following times:

(a) While exposure controls are being evaluated or put in place;

(b) When it is not feasible to use exposure controls to remove or reduce the airborne hazard to below the PEL.

(2) This chapter applies whenever respirators are used at work.

important:

Before using respirators, employers are required to evaluate respiratory hazards and implement control methods as outlined in chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants.

The term "respiratory hazards" will be used throughout this chapter to refer to oxygen-deficient conditions and harmful airborne hazards.

You may use Table 1 for general guidance on which chapter sections apply.

Table 1

Chapter sections that apply to your workplace

If employees...	Then the sections marked with an "X" apply...
If employees...	10505	11005	12005	13005	14005	15005 - 21005	22005	22010
Request and are permitted to voluntarily use filtering-facepiece respirators, and are not exposed to a respiratory hazard		X
Request and are permitted to voluntarily use respirators that are not filtering-facepiece respirators, and are not exposed to a respiratory hazard	X	X			X		X
Are required to use any respirator by DOSH or the employer	X		X	X	X	X	X	X
Would use an escape respirator in an emergency	X		X	X	X	X	X	X

Reference:

See WAC 296-800-160, Personal protective equipment (PPE) to find requirements for other types of PPE such as eye, hand, and head protection.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-100, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-100, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-100, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-10200

Definitions.

Air-line respirator. An atmosphere-supplying respirator for which breathing air is drawn from a source separate from and not worn by the user, such as:

(a) A cylinder or a tank;

(b) A compressor;

Air-purifying respirator (APR). A respirator equipped with an air-purifying element such as a filter, cartridge, or canister, OR having a filtering facepiece, for example, a dust mask. The element or filtering facepiece is designed to remove specific contaminants, such as particles, vapors, or gases, from air that passes through it.

Air supplied respirator (see air-line respirator).

Assigned protection factor (APF). The workplace level of respiratory protection that a respirator or class of respirators is expected to provide to employees when you implement a continuing, effective respiratory protection program as specified by this chapter. For example, an effective program makes sure the respirator is:

(a) Functioning properly;

(b) Fitted to the user;

(d) Used with the limitations specified on the NIOSH-approval label.

Atmosphere-supplying respirator. A respirator that supplies the user with breathing air from sources, such as:

(a) A cylinder or a tank;

(b) A compressor;

Breathing air. Air supplied to an atmosphere-supplying respirator. This air meets the specifications found in WAC 296-842-20005.

Canister or cartridge (air-purifying). Part of an air-purifying respirator that consists of a container holding materials such as fiber, treated charcoal, or a combination of the two, that removes contaminants from the air passing through the cartridge or canister.

Cartridge respirator (see also air-purifying respirator). An air-purifying respirator equipped with one or more cartridges. These respirators have a facepiece made from silicone, rubber OR other plastic-like materials.

Demand respirator. An atmosphere-supplying respirator that sends breathing air to the facepiece only when suction (negative pressure) is created inside the facepiece by inhalation. Demand respirators are "negative pressure" respirators.

DOSH. The division of occupational safety and health, located in the department of labor and industries.

Dust mask. A name used to refer to filtering-facepiece respirators. Dust masks may or may not be NIOSH certified. See filtering facepiece.

Emergency respirator. A respirator suitable for rescue, escape, or other activities during emergency situations.

Emergency situation. Any occurrence that could or does result in a significant uncontrolled release of an airborne contaminant. Causes of emergency situations include, but are not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment.

End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI). A system that warns the air-purifying respirator user that cartridges or canisters must be changed. An example of an ESLI is a dot on the respirator cartridge that changes color.

Escape-only respirator. A respirator that can only be used to exit during emergencies. Look for this use limitation on the respirator's NIOSH approval label.

Exposed, or exposure. The contact an employee has with a toxic substance, harmful physical agent, or oxygen deficient condition. Exposure can occur through various routes of entry, such as inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or skin absorption.

Filter. Fibrous material that removes dust, spray, mist, fume, fog, smoke particles, OR other aerosols from the air.

Filtering-facepiece respirator. A tight-fitting, half-facepiece, negative-pressure, particulate air-purifying respirator with the facepiece mainly composed of filter material. These respirators do not use cartridges or canisters and may have sealing surfaces composed of rubber, silicone or other plastic-like materials. They are sometimes referred to as "dust masks."

Fit factor. A number providing an estimate of fit for a particular respiratory inlet covering to a specific individual during quantitative fit testing.

Fit test (see also qualitative fit test and quantitative fit test). An activity where the facepiece seal of a respirator is challenged, using a DOSH accepted procedure, to determine if the respirator provides an adequate seal.

Full-facepiece respirator. A tight-fitting respirator that covers the wearer's nose, mouth, and eyes.

Gas mask. An air-purifying respirator equipped with one or more canisters. These respirators have a facepiece made from silicone, rubber OR other plastic-like materials.

Half-facepiece respirator. A tight-fitting respirator that only covers the wearer's nose and mouth.

Helmet. The rigid part of a respirator that covers the wearer's head AND also provides head protection against impact or penetration.

High-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA). A powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) filter that removes at least 99.97% of monodisperse dioctyl phthalate (DOP) particles with a mean particle diameter of 0.3 micrometer from contaminated air.

Note:

Filters designated, under 42 C.F.R. Part 84, as an "N100," "R100," or "P100" provide the same filter efficiency (99.97%) as HEPA filters.

Hood. The part of a respirator that completely covers the wearer's head and neck AND may also cover some or all of the shoulders and torso.

Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH). An atmospheric condition that would:

(a) Cause an immediate threat to life;

(b) Cause permanent or delayed adverse health effects; or

Licensed health care professional (LHCP). An individual whose legally permitted scope of medical practice allows him or her to provide some or all of the health care services required for respirator users' medical evaluations.

Loose-fitting facepiece. A respiratory inlet covering that is designed to form a partial seal with the face.

Negative-pressure respirator. Any tight-fitting respirator in which the air pressure inside the facepiece is less than the air pressure outside the respirator during inhalation.

NIOSH. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH is the federal agency that certifies respirators for occupational use.

Oxygen deficient. An atmosphere with an oxygen content below 19.5% by volume.

Permissible exposure limits (PELs). Employee exposures to toxic substances or harmful agents that must not be exceeded. PELs are specified in applicable DOSH chapters.

Positive-pressure respirator. A respirator in which the air pressure inside the respiratory inlet covering is greater than the air pressure outside the respirator.

Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). An air-purifying respirator equipped with a blower that draws ambient air through cartridges or canisters. These respirators, as a group, are not classified as positive pressure respirators and must not be used as such.

Pressure-demand respirator. A positive-pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator that sends breathing air to the respiratory inlet covering when the positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation or leakage.

Qualitative fit test (QLFT). A test that determines the adequacy of respirator fit for an individual. The test relies on the employee's ability to detect a test substance. Test results are either "pass" or "fail."

Quantitative fit test (QNFT). A test that determines the adequacy of respirator fit for an individual. The test relies on specialized equipment that performs numeric measurements of leakage into the respiratory inlet covering. Test results are used to calculate a "fit factor."

Required use. Respirator use that:

(a) Is necessary to protect employees from respiratory hazards; or

(b) The employer decides to require for his or her own reasons. For example, the employer decides to follow more rigorous exposure limits.

Respirator. A type of personal protective equipment designed to protect the wearer from airborne contaminants, oxygen deficiency, or both.

Respiratory hazard. Airborne hazards and oxygen deficiency that are addressed in chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants.

Respiratory inlet covering. The part of a respirator that forms the protective barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifying device or breathing air source or both. The respiratory inlet covering may be a facepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or mouthpiece respirator with nose clamp.

Seal check. Actions conducted by the respirator user each time the respirator is put on, to determine if the respirator is properly seated on the face.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). An atmosphere-supplying respirator designed for the breathing air source, to be carried by the user.

Service-life. The period of time that a respirator, filter or sorbent, or other respiratory equipment provides adequate protection to the wearer. For example, the period of time that sorbent cartridge is effective for removing a harmful substance from the air.

Sorbent. Rigid, porous material, such as charcoal, used to remove vapor or gas from the air.

Supplied-air respirator (see air-line respirator).

Tight-fitting facepiece. A respiratory inlet covering forming a complete seal with the face OR neck. Mouthpiece respirators are not tight-fitting facepieces.

Voluntary use. Respirator use that is requested by the employee and permitted by the employer when no respiratory hazard exists.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-10200, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-10200, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09.]

PDF296-842-10505

Designate a program administrator.

Exemption:

You do not need to designate a program administrator if employees use only filtering-facepiece respirators and do so only as voluntary use.

Designate a program administrator who has overall responsibility for your program and has sufficient training or experience to oversee program development, coordinate implementation, and conduct required evaluations of program effectiveness outlined in WAC 296-842-12005.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-10505, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-10505, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-10505, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-11005

Make sure voluntary use of respirators is safe.

IMPORTANT:

Respirator use is not voluntary, and the required use sections of this chapter apply, if:

1. You choose to require respirator use.

2. A respiratory hazard, such as exposure to a substance over the permissible exposure limit (PEL) or hazardous exposure to an airborne biological hazard, is present. To evaluate respiratory hazards in your workplace, see chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants.

3. Some requirements in this section do not apply if only filtering-facepiece respirators are used voluntarily.

4. Some filtering-facepiece respirators are equipped with a sorbent layer for absorbing "nuisance" organic vapors. These can be used for voluntary use, but are not NIOSH certified for protection against hazardous concentrations of organic vapor.

(1) Make sure voluntary respirator use does NOT:

(a) Interfere with an employee's ability to work safely, such as restricting necessary vision or radio communication; or

(b) Create health hazards.

Note:	Examples of health hazards include:
	1. Skin irritation, dermatitis, or other health effects caused by using a dirty respirator.
	2. Illness created by sharing contaminated respirators.
	3. Health effects caused by use of an unsafe air supply, such as carbon monoxide poisoning.

(2) Provide all voluntary respirator users with the advisory information in Table 2 at no cost to them.

(3) Develop and maintain a written program that includes the following:

(a) Medical evaluation provisions as specified in WAC 296-842-14005.

(b) Procedures to properly clean and disinfect respirators, according to WAC 296-842-22015, if they are reused.

(d) Procedures to make sure there is a safe air supply, according to WAC 296-842-20010, when using air-line respirators and SCBAs.

(e) Effective training to ensure respirator use does NOT create a hazard.

Exemption:

If employees use only filtering-facepiece respirators and do so only voluntarily, you do not need to develop and maintain a written program.

(4) Use Table 2 to provide information to employees who voluntarily use any type of respirator.

Table 2

Advisory Information for Employees Who Voluntarily Use Respirators
• Respirators protect against airborne hazards when properly selected and used. Respirator usage that is required by DOSH or your employer is not voluntary use. With required use, your employer will need to provide further training and meet additional requirements in this chapter. DOSH recommends voluntary use of respirators when exposure to substances is below DOSH permissible exposure limits (PELs) because respirators can provide you an additional level of comfort and protection.
• If you choose to voluntarily use a respirator (whether it is provided by you or your employer) be aware that respirators can create hazards for you, the user. You can avoid these hazards if you know how to use your respirator properly AND how to keep it clean. Take these steps:
	– Read and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer about use, maintenance (cleaning and care), and warnings regarding the respirator's limitations.
	– Choose respirators that have been certified for use to protect against the substance of concern. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certifies respirators. If a respirator is not certified by NIOSH, you have no guarantee that it meets minimum design and performance standards for workplace use.
		■ A NIOSH approval label will appear on or in the respirator packaging. It will tell you what protection the respirator provides.
	– Keep track of your respirator so you do not mistakenly use someone else's.
	– DO NOT wear your respirator into:
		■ Required use situations when you are only allowed voluntary use.
		■ Atmospheres containing hazards that your respirator is not designed to protect against.
			For example, a respirator designed to filter dust particles will not protect you against solvent vapor, smoke or oxygen deficiency.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-11005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-11005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-11005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-11005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-11010

Keep voluntary use program records.

Exemption:

If employees use only filtering-facepiece respirators voluntarily, you do not need to follow these recordkeeping requirements.

(1) Keep copies of:

(a) Your current written respirator program

(b) Written recommendations from the licensed health care professional (LHCP)

(2) Allow records required by this section to be examined and copied by affected employees and their representatives.

Reference:

See chapter 296-802 WAC, Employee medical and exposure records, for additional requirements that apply to medical records.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-11010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-11010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-12005

Develop and maintain a written program.

Exemption:

This section does NOT apply to respirator use that is voluntary. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use program requirements.

(1) Develop a complete worksite-specific written respiratory protection program that includes the applicable elements listed in Table 3. The program must cover each employee required by this section to use a respirator.

Note:

Pay for respirators, medical evaluations, fit testing, training, maintenance, travel costs, and wages.

(2) Keep your program current and effective by evaluating it and making corrections. Do ALL of the following:

(a) Make sure procedures and program specifications are followed and appropriate.

(b) Make sure selected respirators continue to be effective in protecting employees. For example, if changes in work area conditions, level of employee exposure, or employee physical stress have occurred, you need to reevaluate your respirator selection.

(d) Regularly ask employees required to use respirators about their views concerning program effectiveness and whether they have problems with:

(i) Respirator fit during use;

(ii) Any effects of respirator use on work performance;

(iii) Respirators being appropriate for the hazards encountered;

(iv) Proper use under current worksite conditions;

(v) Proper maintenance.

(e) When developing your written program include applicable elements listed in Table 3.

Table 3

Required Elements for Required-Use Respirator Programs
• Selection:
	– Procedures for respirator selection
	– A list specifying the appropriate respirator for each respiratory hazard in your workplace
	– Procedures for issuing the proper type of respirator, if appropriate
• Medical evaluation provisions
• Fit-test provisions and procedures, if tight-fitting respirators are selected
• Training provisions that address:
	– Respiratory hazards encountered during:
		■ Routine activities
		■ Infrequent activities, for example, bimonthly cleaning of equipment
		■ Reasonably foreseeable emergencies, for example, rescue, spill response, or escape situations
	– Proper use of respirators, for example, how to put on or remove respirators, and use limitations.
Note:		You do NOT need to repeat training on respiratory hazards if employees have been trained on this in compliance with other rules such as WAC 296-901-140, Hazard communication.
• Respirator use procedures for:
	– Routine activities
	– Infrequent activities
	– Reasonably foreseeable emergencies
• Maintenance:
	– Procedures and schedules for respirator maintenance covering:
		■ Cleaning and disinfecting
		■ Storage
		■ Inspection and repair
		■ When to discard respirators
	– A cartridge or canister change schedule IF air-purifying respirators are selected for use against gas or vapor contaminants AND an end-of-service-life-indicator (ESLI) is not available. In addition, provide:
		■ The data and other information you relied on to calculate change schedule values (for example, highest contaminant concentration estimates, duration of employee respirator use, expected maximum humidity levels, user breathing rates, and safety factors)
• Procedures to ensure a safe air quantity and quality IF atmosphere-supplying respirators (air-line or SCBA) are selected
• Procedures for evaluating program effectiveness on a regular basis

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-12005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and 29 C.F.R. 1910 Subpart Z. WSR 14-07-086, § 296-842-12005, filed 3/18/14, effective 5/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 09-15-145, § 296-842-12005, filed 7/21/09, effective 9/1/09; WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-12005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-12005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-12010

Keep respirator program records.

(1) A written copy of the current respirator program must be kept by the employer.

(2) Keep each employee's current fit test record, if fit testing is conducted, until the next fit test is administered. Fit test records must include:

(a) Employee name;

(b) Test date;

(d) Description (type, manufacturer, model, style, and size) of the respirator tested;

(e) Results of fit tests, for example, for quantitative fit tests include the overall fit factor AND a print out, or other recording of the test.

(3) Keep training records that include employees' names and the dates trained.

(4) Keep written recommendations from the LHCP.

Reference:

See chapter 296-802 WAC, Employee medical and exposure records, for additional requirements that apply to medical records.

(5) You must allow affected employees and their representatives to examine and copy records required by this section.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-12010, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-12010, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-12010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-12010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-13005

Select and provide appropriate respirators.

Exemption:

This section does NOT apply to respirator use that is voluntary. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use program requirements.

IMPORTANT:

See chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants, for:

1. Hazard evaluation requirements. Evaluation results are necessary for respirator selection.

2. References to substance-specific rules that may also apply to you and have additional respirator selection requirements. These references are found in the permissible exposure limit (PEL) table.

A respirator must be provided to each employee when such equipment is necessary to protect the health of the employee. Select and provide, at no cost to employees, appropriate respirators for routine use, infrequent use, and reasonably foreseeable emergencies (such as escape, emergency, and spill response situations) by completing the following process:

Respirator Selection Process

Step 1: If your only respirator use is for escape, skip to Step 8 to select appropriate respirators.

Step 2: If the respiratory hazard is a biological aerosol, such as TB (tuberculosis), anthrax, psittacosis (parrot fever), or hanta virus, select a respirator appropriate for nonemergency activities recognized to present a health risk to workers AND skip to Step 8.

(a) If respirator use will occur during emergencies, skip to Step 8 and document the analysis used to select the appropriate respirator.

(b) Use Centers for Disease Control (CDC) selection guidance for exposures to specific biological agents when this guidance exists. Visit http://www.cdc.gov.

Step 3: If the respiratory hazard is a pesticide, follow the respirator specification on the pesticide label AND skip to Step 9.

Step 4: Determine the expected exposure concentration for each respiratory hazard of concern. Use the results from the evaluation required by chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants.

Step 5: Determine if the respiratory hazard is classified as IDLH; if it is NOT IDLH skip to Step 7.

The respiratory hazard IS classified as IDLH if:

(a) The atmosphere is oxygen deficient or oxygen enriched;

(b) You CANNOT measure or estimate your expected exposure concentration; or

(c) Your measured or estimated expected exposure concentration is greater or equal to the IDLH value in the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards.

Note:

DOSH uses the IDLH values in the 1990 edition of the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Hazardous Chemicals to determine the existence of IDLH conditions. You may use more recent editions of this guide. Visit www.cdc.gov/niosh for more information.

Step 6: Select an appropriate respirator from one of the following respirators for IDLH conditions and skip to Step 8:

(a) Full-facepiece, pressure demand, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) certified by NIOSH for a minimum service life of thirty minutes; or

(b) Full-facepiece, pressure demand air-line respirator equipped with an auxiliary self-contained air supply.

Exception:

If the respiratory hazard is oxygen deficiency AND you can show oxygen concentrations can be controlled within the ranges listed in Table 4 under ALL foreseeable conditions, you are allowed to select ANY type of SCBA or air-line respirator:

Table 4

Concentration Ranges for Oxygen Deficiency

Altitude (as ft. above sea level)	Oxygen Concentration Range (as percent oxygen)
Below 3,001	16.0 - 19.5
3,001 - 4,000	16.4 - 19.5
4,001 - 5,000	17.1 - 19.5
5,001 - 6,000	17.8 - 19.5
6,001 - 7,000	18.5 - 19.5
7,001 - 8,000	19.3 - 19.5
Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygen-enriched breathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.

Step 7: Select respirator types with assigned protection factors (APFs) from Table 5 that are appropriate to protect employees from the expected exposure concentration.

Note:	1. Appendix B, using assigned protection factors (APFs) for respirator selection, found in this chapter, uses the hazard-ratio approach established by ANSI Z88.2-1992 to determine which respirator types can provide a sufficient level of protection.
	2. If no permissible exposure limit (PEL) is established for an airborne contaminant, use relevant available information and informed professional judgment to determine an acceptable exposure limit value to use for calculating hazard ratios. For example, you may use exposure limit values established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).

Step 8: Consider hazards that could require selection of specific respirator types. For example, select full-facepiece respirators to prevent eye irritation or abrasive blasting helmets to provide particle rebound protection.

Note:

Rules for specific substances have additional selection specifications that apply to escape and other types of respirators. Make sure you follow those additional requirements before finalizing your selection.

Step 9: Evaluate user and workplace factors that might compromise respirator performance, reliability or safety.

Examples:

(a) High humidity or temperature extremes in the workplace.

(b) Necessary voice communication.

(d) If respirator use is for escape only, follow this step and then skip to Step 11.

(e) If the respiratory hazard is a pesticide, follow the requirements on the pesticide label and skip to Step 11.

(f) Time or distance for escape.

Step 10: Follow Table 6 requirements to select an air-purifying respirator.

If Table 6 requirements cannot be met, you must select an appropriate air-line respirator or an SCBA.

Step 11: Make sure respirators you select are certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

(a) Respirators provided exclusively for escape from IDLH atmospheres must be NIOSH-certified for escape from the atmosphere in which they will be used.

(b) To maintain certification, make sure the respirator is used according to cautions and limitations specified on the NIOSH approval label. This includes manufacturer restrictions on cartridges and canisters.

For SCBAs, use only the respirator manufacturer's NIOSH-approved breathing gas containers, marked and maintained in accordance with the Quality Assurance 68 provisions of the NIOSH approval for the SCBA as issued in accordance with the NIOSH respirator certification standard at 42 C.F.R. Part 84.

Note:

While selecting respirators, you will need to select a sufficient number of types, models or sizes to provide for fit testing. You can also consider other respirator use issues, such as accommodating facial hair with a loose fitting respirator.

Use Table 5 to identify the assigned protection factor for different types of respirators.

(c) These assigned protection factors are only effective when the employer implements a continuing, effective respirator program as required by this chapter, including training, fit testing, maintenance, and use requirements.

(d) You may select respirators assigned for use in higher workplace concentrations of a hazardous substance for use at lower concentrations of that substance, or when required use is independent of concentration.

Table 5

Assigned Protection Factors (APF) for Respirator Types

If the respirator is a(n) …	Then the APF is …
Air-purifying respirator with a:
• Quarter-mask. . . .	5
• Half-facepiece. This category includes filtering facepiece and elastomeric facepiece models . . . .	10
• Full-facepiece . . . .	50
Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) with a:
• Loose-fitting facepiece . . . .	25
• Half-facepiece . . . .	50
• Full-facepiece . . . .	1000
• Hood or helmet . . . .	25/1000 (see note)
Note: PAPRs with helmets/hoods may receive an APF of 1000 only when you have evidence that testing of these respirators demonstrates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater. Such evidence must be provided by the respirator manufacturer. This level of performance can best be demonstrated by performing a workplace protection factor (WPF) or simulated workplace protection factor (SWPF) study or equivalent testing.
Air-line respirator with a:
• Half-facepiece and designed to operate in demand mode . . . .	10
• Loose-fitting facepiece and designed to operate in continuous flow mode . . . .	25
• Half-facepiece and designed to operate in continuous-flow mode . . . .	50
• Half-facepiece and designed to operate in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. . . .	50
• Full-facepiece and designed to operate in demand mode . . . .	50
• Full-facepiece and designed to operate in continuous-flow mode . . . .	1000
• Full-facepiece and designed to operate in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. . . .	1000
• Helmet or hood and designed to operate in continuous-flow mode . . . .	25/1000 (see note)
Note: Air-line respirators with helmets/hoods designed to operate in continuous-flow mode may receive an APF of 1000 when you have evidence that testing of these respirators demonstrates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater. Such evidence must be provided by the respirator manufacturer. This level of performance can best be demonstrated by performing a workplace protection factor (WPF) or simulated workplace protection factor (SWPF) study or equivalent testing.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with a tight fitting:
• Half-facepiece and designed to operate in demand mode . . . .	10
• Full-facepiece and designed to operate in demand mode . . . .	50
• Full-facepiece and designed to operate in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode (e.g., open/closed circuit) . . . .	10,000
• Helmet or hood and designed to operate in demand mode. . . .	50
• Helmet or hood and designed to operate in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode (e.g., open/closed circuit). . . .	10,000
Combination respirators:
• When using a combination respirator, such as an air-line respirator with an air-purifying filter, you must make sure the APF is appropriate to the mode of operation in which the respirator is used . . . .
Escape respirators:
• APFs in this table do not apply to respirators used solely for escape. To select escape respirators, go to Step 8 of this section . . . .

Use Table 6 to select air-purifying respirators for particle, vapor, or gas contaminants.

Table 6

Requirements for Selecting Any Air-purifying Respirator

If the contaminant is a …	Then …
• Gas OR vapor	• Provide a respirator with canisters or cartridges equipped with a NIOSH-certified, end-of-service-life indicator (ESLI)
	OR
	• If a canister or cartridge with an ESLI is NOT available, develop a cartridge change schedule to make sure the canisters or cartridges are replaced before they are no longer effective
	OR
	• Select an atmosphere-supplying respirator
• Particle, such as a dust, spray, mist, fog, fume, or aerosol	• Select respirators with filters certified to be at least 95% efficient by NIOSH
		– For example, N95s, R99s, P100s, or High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-13005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 12-24-071, § 296-842-13005, filed 12/4/12, effective 1/4/13. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-13005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-13005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-13005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-14005

Provide medical evaluations.

Exemption:	This section does not apply to employees who only use:
	1. Filtering-facepiece respirators voluntarily. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use requirements; or
	2. Escape-only respirators that are mouthpiece, loose-fitting, or hooded respirators.

IMPORTANT:

1. If an employee has been provided with a medical evaluation addressing respirator use, as required by another chapter, that evaluation will meet the requirements of this section.

2. Using a respirator can create physical risks for an employee each time it is worn. The extent of these risks depends on these factors:

a. Type of respirator;

b. Environmental conditions at the worksite;

c. Physical demands of the work;

d. Use of the protective clothing;

e. Employee's health status.

Follow the medical evaluation process, Steps 1 through 7 in this section, to provide medical evaluations for employees at no cost to them.

Medical Evaluation Process

Step 1: Identify employees who need medical evaluations AND determine the frequency of evaluations from Table 7. Include employees who:

(a) Are required to use respirators; or

(b) Voluntarily use respirators that are not filtering-facepiece respirators.

Note:	You may use a previous employer's medical evaluation for an employee if you can:
	1. Show the employee's previous work and use conditions were substantially similar to yours; and
	2. Obtain a copy of the licensed health care professional's (LHCP's) written recommendation approving the employee's use of the respirator chosen by you.

Step 2: Identify a licensed health care professional (LHCP) to perform your medical evaluations.

Note:

If you select a different LHCP, you do not need to have new medical evaluations done.

Step 3: Make sure your LHCP has the following information before the evaluation is completed:

(a) Information describing the respirators employees may use, including the weight and type.

(b) How the respirators will be used, including:

(i) How often the respirator will be used, for example, daily, or once a month;

(ii) The duration of respirator use, for example, a minimum of one hour, or up to twelve hours;

(iii) The employee's expected physical work effort;

(iv) Additional personal protective clothing and equipment to be worn;

(v) Temperature and humidity extremes expected during use.

Note:	1. You may choose to send the questionnaire to the LHCP ahead of time, giving time to review it and add any necessary questions.
	2. The LHCP determines what questions to add to the questionnaire, if any; however, questions in Parts 1-3 may not be deleted or substantially altered.

Step 4: Administer the medical questionnaire in WAC 296-842-22005 to employees, OR provide them a medical exam that obtains the same information.

Note:

You may use online questionnaires if the questions are the same and requirements of this section are met.

(a) Administer the examination or questionnaire at no cost to employees:

(i) During the employee's normal working hours; or

(ii) At a time and place convenient to the employee.

(b) Maintain employee confidentiality during examination or questionnaire administration:

(i) Do not view employee's answers on the questionnaire;

(ii) Do not act in a manner that may be considered a breach of confidentiality.

Note:

Providing confidentiality is important for securing successful medical evaluations. It helps make sure the LHCP gets complete and dependable answers on the questionnaire.

(d) Provide the employee with an opportunity to discuss the questionnaire or exam results with the LHCP.

Step 5: Provide follow-up evaluation for employees when:

(a) The LHCP needs more information to make a final recommendation; or

(b) An employee gives any positive response to questions 1-8 in Part 2 OR to questions 1-6 in Part 3 of the DOSH medical evaluation questionnaire in WAC 296-842-22005.

Note:	Follow-up may include:
	1. Employee consultation with the LHCP such as a telephone conversation to evaluate positive questionnaire responses;
	2. Medical exams;
	3. Medical tests or other diagnostic procedures.

Step 6: Obtain a written recommendation from the LHCP that contains only the following medical information:

(a) Whether or not the employee is medically able to use the respirator;

(b) Any limitations of respirator use for the employee;

(d) A statement that the employee has been provided a copy of the written recommendation.

Step 7: Provide a powered, air-purifying respirator (PAPR) when the LHCP determines the employee should not wear a negative-pressure air-purifying respirator AND is able to wear a PAPR.

Reference:

See WAC 296-842-13005 for requirements regarding selection of air-purifying respirators.

Note:	1. You may discontinue medical evaluations for an employee when the employee no longer uses a respirator.
	2. If you have staff conducting your medical evaluations, they may keep completed questionnaires and findings as confidential medical records, if they are maintained separately from other records.

Use Table 7 to determine medical evaluation frequency.

Table 7

Evaluation Frequency

Type of Evaluation:	When required:
Initial medical evaluations	• Before respirators are fit-tested or used in the workplace.
Subsequent medical evaluations	• If any of these occur:
		– Your licensed health care professional (LHCP) recommends them; for example, periodic evaluations at specified intervals.
		– A respirator program administrator or supervisor informs you that an employee needs reevaluation.
		– Medical signs or symptoms (such as breathing difficulties) are:
			■ Observed during fit testing or program evaluation; or
			■ Reported by the employee.
		– Changes in worksite conditions such as physical work effort, personal protective clothing, or temperature that could substantially increase the employee's physiological stress.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-14005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-14005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-14005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-14005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-15005

Conduct fit testing.

Exemption:	This section does not apply to any respirators that are:
	1. Voluntarily used. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use requirements.
	2. Mouthpiece respirators and other escape-only respirators.
	3. Loose-fitting respirators.

IMPORTANT:

1. Fit testing is an activity where the seal of a respirator is tested to determine if it's adequate.

2. This section covers general requirements for fit testing. Specific fit testing procedures are covered in WAC 296-842-22010.

(1) Provide, at no cost to the employee, fit tests for ALL tight fitting respirators on the following schedule:

(a) Before employees are assigned duties that may require the use of respirators;

(b) At least every twelve months after initial testing;

(i) A different respirator facepiece is chosen such as a different type, model, style, or size;

(ii) You become aware of a physical change in an employee that could affect respirator fit. For example, you may observe, or be told about, facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or obvious weight changes;

(iii) An employee notifies you, or your LHCP, that the respirator fit is unacceptable. During the retest, you must give an employee reasonable opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece (size, model, etc.).

Note:	You may accept a fit test completed by a previous employer IF:
	1. You obtain written documentation of the fit test;
	2. The results of the fit test are not more than twelve months old;
	3. The employee will use the same respirator (the same type, model, style, and size); and
	4. The fit test was conducted in a way that meets the requirements of WAC 296-842-15005 and 296-842-22010.

(2) Select and use an appropriate fit-testing procedure from WAC 296-842-22010 of this chapter.

(3) Use quantitative fit-test methods when a negative pressure respirator will be used in concentrations requiring a protection factor greater than 10. This includes:

(a) Full facepiece air-purifying respirators;

(b) SCBAs operated in demand (negative pressure) mode;

(4) Make sure tight-fitting PAPRs, SCBAs, or air-line respirators are fit tested in negative-pressure mode. This must be done by either:

(a) Temporarily converting the respirator user's actual facepiece into a negative pressure respirator using the appropriate filters; or

(b) Using an identical negative pressure air-purifying respirator facepiece as a surrogate for the SCBA, air-line or PAPR. The surrogate facepiece must have the same sealing surfaces as the SCBA, air-line, or PAPR.

Remove any modifications made to the respirator facepiece for fit testing and return the facepiece to the NIOSH approved configuration before the facepiece is used in the workplace.

(5) Make sure the person conducting fit testing is able to do ALL of the following:

(a) Prepare test solutions if required;

(b) Make sure equipment works properly;

(d) Recognize invalid tests;

(e) Calculate fit factors properly if required.

Note:	1. No specific training program or certification is required for those who conduct fit tests.
	2. You should consider evaluating these individuals to determine their proficiency in the fit-testing method to be used.
	3. You can use an evaluation form such as the form included in the American National Standard for Respirator Fit Testing Methods, ANSI/AIHA Z88.10-2001 to determine if the individual meets these requirements. Visit www.ansi.org or www.aiha.org.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-15005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-15005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-15005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-15005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-16005

Provide effective training.

Exemption:

This section does not apply to respirators that are voluntarily used. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use requirements.

(1) Train employees, based on their duties, if they do any of the following:

(a) Use respirators;

(b) Supervise respirator users;

(2) Present effective training in a way that employees understand.

Note:	1. Training may be provided using audiovisuals, slide presentations, formal classroom instruction, informal discussions during safety meetings, training programs conducted by outside sources, or a combination of these methods.
	2. You may want to have instructors available when using video or automated training methods to:
	a. Encourage and provide responses to questions for the benefit of employees.
	b. Evaluate employees' understanding of the material.
	c. Provide other instructional interaction to employees.

(3) Make sure a qualified instructor provides training.

(4) Provide training, at no cost to the employee, at these times:

(a) Initially, before worksite respirator use begins;

(b) Periodically, within twelve months of the previous training;

(i) The employee has not retained knowledge or skills; or

(ii) Changes in the worksite, or type of respirator make previous training incomplete or obsolete.

Note:	1. You may accept an employee's previous training, such as training provided by another employer, to satisfy the initial training requirement if:
	a. You can demonstrate the employee received training within the past twelve months; and
	b. The employee can demonstrate the knowledge and skills to use required respirators effectively.
	2. If you accept an employee's previous training to satisfy the initial training requirement, you are still responsible for providing periodic, and additional training when needed. Periodic training would need to be provided within twelve months of the employee's previous training.

(5) Make sure employees can demonstrate the following knowledge and skills as required by their duties:

(a) Why the respirator is necessary. Include, for example, information identifying respiratory hazards such as hazardous chemicals, the extent of the employee's exposure, and potential health effects and symptoms;

(b) The respirator's capabilities and limitations. Include, for example, how the respirator provides protection and why air-purifying respirators cannot be used in oxygen-deficient conditions;

(d) How to properly inspect, put on, seal check, use, and remove the respirator;

(e) How to clean, disinfect, repair, and store the respirator, or how to get this done by someone else;

(f) How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations; including what to do when a respirator fails and where emergency respirators are stored;

(g) Medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirators such as shortness of breath or dizziness;

(h) Your general obligations under this chapter. For example, developing a written program, selecting appropriate respirators, and providing medical evaluations.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-16005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-16005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-16005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-16005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-17005

Maintain respirators in a clean and reliable condition.

IMPORTANT:

This section applies to employees who voluntarily use respirators only when maintenance is necessary to prevent the respirator from creating a hazard. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use requirements.

(1) Make sure respirators are kept, at no cost to the employee, clean, sanitary and in good working order.

(2) Clean and disinfect respirators as often as specified in Table 8 of this section.

Note:	1. Use required cleaning and disinfecting procedures in WAC 296-842-22015, or the manufacturer's procedures that:
	a. Result in a clean and sanitary respirator;
	b. Do not damage the respirator;
	c. Do not harm the user.
	2. Automated cleaning and disinfecting are permitted.
	3. Cleaning and disinfecting may be done by a central facility as long as you make sure respirators provided are clean, sanitary, and function properly.

(3) Make sure respirators are assembled properly after cleaning or disinfecting.

Table 8

Required Frequencies for Cleaning and Disinfecting Respirators

If the respirator will be …	Then clean and disinfect the respirator …
• Used exclusively by one employee	• As often as needed to:
		– Keep it clean and functional; and
		– To prevent health hazards such as skin irritation
• Shared for nonemergency use; or	• Before it is worn by another employee
• Used for fit-testing or training
• Shared for emergency use	• After each use so the respirator is immediately ready for use at all times

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-17005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-17005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-17005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-17005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-17010

Store respirators properly.

(1) Store respirators to protect them from all of the following:

(a) Deformation of the facepiece or exhalation valve

(b) Sunlight or extreme temperatures or other conditions

(d) Excessive moisture.

Note:

Use coffee cans, sealable plastic bags, or other suitable means of protection.

(2) Follow these additional requirements for emergency respirators:

(a) Keep respirators accessible to the work area

(b) Store respirators in compartments or with covers clearly marked as containing emergency respirators

(d) Store an adequate number of emergency respirators in each area where they may be needed.

Note:

Emergency respirators include mouthpiece respirators and other respirators that are limited to escape-only use by their NIOSH certification.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-17010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-17010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-17015

Inspect and repair respirators.

(1) Conduct respirator inspections as often as specified in Table 9.

(2) Make sure respirator inspections cover all of the following:

(a) Respirator function;

(b) Tightness of connections;

(d) Pliability and deterioration of elastomeric parts;

(e) Maintenance of air or oxygen cylinders;

(f) Making sure SCBA air cylinders are at ninety percent of the manufacturer's recommended pressure level;

(g) Proper functioning of SCBA regulators when air-flow is activated; and

(h) Proper functioning of SCBA low-pressure warning devices when activated.

(3) Certify inspections for emergency respirators by documenting the following:

(a) Inspection date;

(b) Serial number of each respirator or other identifying information;

(d) Inspection findings; and

(e) Required action, if problems are found.

Note:	When documenting inspections you may either:
	1. Provide the information on a tag or label and attach it to the respirator compartment; or
	2. Include the information in an inspection report stored in paper or electronic files accessible to employees.

(4) Repair or replace any respirator that is not functioning properly before the employee returns to a situation where respirators are required.

If respirators fail inspection or are not functioning properly during use due to problems such as leakage, vapor or gas breakthrough, or increased breathing resistance, ALL of the following apply:

(a) Do NOT permit such respirators to be used until properly repaired or adjusted;

(b) Use only NIOSH-certified parts;

Use the manufacturer or a technician trained by the manufacturer to repair or adjust reducing and admission valves, regulators, and warning devices on SCBAs or air-line respirators.

(d) Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications for the type and extent of repairs.

(5) Use Table 9 to determine how often to inspect respirators.

Table 9

Required Frequencies for Respirator Inspections

If the respirator is …	Then inspect …
A SCBA in any use	• Before each use; and
	• During cleaning; or
	• Monthly if NOT used
Used for nonemergencies, including day-to-day or infrequent use	• Inspect before each use; and
	• During cleaning
Used only for emergencies	• Check for proper function before and after each use; and
	• Inspect at least monthly as instructed by the manufacturer
Used for escape-only purposes	• Before carrying into a work place for use

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-17015, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17; WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-17015, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-17015, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-18005

Prevent sealing problems with tight-fitting respirators.

Exemption:

This section does not apply to respirator use that is voluntary. See WAC 296-842-11005 for voluntary use program requirements.

(1) Make sure employees use the procedure in WAC 296-842-22020 to perform a user seal check each time they put on their tight-fitting respirator.

(2) Make sure you do not permit respirator use if employees have a characteristic that interferes with the respirator facepiece seal or valve function. For example, stubble, moustaches, sideburns, bangs, hairlines, or scars between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator will affect the seal.

(3) Make sure corrective glasses or personal protective equipment (PPE) do not interfere with the facepiece seal. Examples of PPE include safety glasses, goggles, faceshields, clothing, and hard hats.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-18005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-18005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-18005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-18010

Make sure employees leave the use area before removing respirators.

Make sure employees leave the use area for any of these reasons:

(1) To replace air-purifying filters, cartridges, or canisters;

(2) When they smell or taste (detect) vapor or gas leakage from, for example, cartridges, canister, or the facepiece seal;

(3) When they detect changes in breathing resistance;

(4) To readjust their respirators;

(5) To wash their faces and respirators as necessary to prevent skin or eye irritation;

(6) If they become ill;

(7) If they experience sensations of dizziness, nausea, weakness, breathing difficulty, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, fever, or chills.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-18010, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17; WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-18010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-18010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-19005

Provide standby assistance in immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions.

IMPORTANT:

DOSH currently uses the IDLH values in the 1990 NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards to determine the existence of IDLH conditions. You may use more recent editions of this guide. Visit www.cdc.gov/niosh for more information.

(1) Provide at least two standby employees outside the IDLH area.

Note:	You need only one standby employee if the IDLH condition is well characterized, will remain stable AND you can show one employee can adequately do ALL of the following:
	1. Monitor employees in the IDLH area;
	2. Implement communication; and
	3. Initiate rescue duties.

(2) Train and equip standby employees to provide effective emergency rescue. Equip them with:

(a) A pressure-demand SCBA or a pressure-demand air-line respirator with an auxiliary SCBA, for each standby employee;

(b) Appropriate retrieval equipment, when it would help with the effective rescue of the entrant, or an equivalent means of rescue.

(3) Make sure standby employees maintain visual, voice, or signal line communication with employees in the IDLH area.

(4) Make sure that in the event of an emergency:

(a) Standby employees notify you or your designee before they enter the IDLH area to provide emergency rescue;

(b) You provide necessary assistance when notified.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-19005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-19005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-19005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-19005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-20005

Make sure breathing air and oxygen meet established specifications.

(1) Make sure that all SCBAs and air-line respirators are provided with safe breathing air and oxygen.

(2) Compressed breathing air must meet the following specifications for Grade D air:

(a) Oxygen (volume/volume) within 19.5-23.5%

(b) Hydrocarbon (condensed): NO MORE than five milligrams per cubic meter of air

(d) Carbon dioxide (CO2): NO MORE than 1,000 ppm

(e) No noticeable odor

Reference:

See the American National Standards Institute - Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air (G-7.1.1989) for more information. Contact your local library to access a copy.

(3) Make sure the moisture content of the air supplied meets the following:

(a) Air supplied to respirators from cylinders must NOT exceed a dew point of -50°F (or -45.6°C) at 1 atmospheric pressure.

(b) Compressor supplied air must NOT exceed a dew point of 10°F (or 5.56°C) BELOW the use temperature at 1 atmospheric pressure.

(4) Cylinders of breathing air purchased or otherwise obtained from a supplier must have a certificate of analysis from the supplier verifying each cylinder's contents meet Grade D breathing air requirements and dew point standards.

(5) Compressed and liquid oxygen must meet the United States Pharmacopoeia requirements for medical or breathing oxygen.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-20005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-20005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-20010

Prevent conditions that could create a hazardous breathing air supply.

(1) Use SCBA and air-line respirators safely:

DO NOT supply compressed oxygen to SCBAs or air-line respirators that previously used compressed air.

Note:

Compressed air leaves residues containing hydrocarbons such as oil or grease. Fire or explosion can occur if compressed oxygen makes contact with these residues.

(2) Use breathing air couplings on air-line respirators that are NOT compatible with couplings for nonrespirable air or other gas systems, for example, utility air used for manufacturing purposes.

(3) DO NOT allow asphyxiating substances to enter breathing air lines; for example, do not flush nitrogen through worksite air lines also used for breathing air.

(4) Use equipment specifically designed for oxygen service or distribution IF oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5% are used.

Note:

Respiratory equipment NOT designed for oxygen service or distribution can create fire or explosion hazards in oxygen concentrations higher than 23.5%.

(5) Make sure cylinders used to supply breathing air for SCBAs or air-line respirators are tested and maintained as described in the federal Department of Transportation's (DOT) Shipping Container Specification Regulations, Title 49 C.F.R. Part 180.

Note:	1. Use only cylinders marked (with serial number, cylinder pressure, DOT exemption number, and test dates) according to these DOT regulations.
	2. To find any Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) visit: www.access.gpo.gov.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-20010, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 12-24-071, § 296-842-20010, filed 12/4/12, effective 1/4/13. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-20010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-20010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-20015

Make sure compressors do not create a hazardous breathing air supply.

IMPORTANT:

1. Ambient-air movers (or pumps) used to supply air to respirators must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Respirators used with ambient-air movers must be approved by NIOSH to operate within the pressure ranges of the air mover.

(1) Locate or modify compressor intakes so they will not pick up contaminated air OR exhaust gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) from:

(a) Fuel-powered vehicles;

(b) The internal combustion motor of the compressor; or

Note:	1. You may need to reposition or extend the compressor's intake or engine exhaust pipe or outlet, especially if they are located near each other.
	2. Be aware that exhaust gases may not adequately disperse when the compressor is operated in:
	a. An enclosed space such as a small room, a corner, or near a wall; or
	b. In turbulent wind conditions.

(2) Equip compressors with suitable air-purifying filters, water traps, and sorbents (such as charcoal beds) and maintain them as follows:

(a) Periodically change or clean them according to the manufacturer or supplier's instructions

(b) Keep a tag at the compressor with the following information:

(i) When the sorbent and filters were last replaced or cleaned;

(ii) The date of the most recent changes or cleaning;

(iii) The signature of the person authorized by the employer to perform changes or cleaning.

Note:

To be sure you are providing the recommended operating pressure for respirators, you may need to install a delivery pressure gauge where the respirator's airline hose attaches to the manifold or other air outlet.

(3) Make sure the carbon monoxide (CO) level in breathing air from compressors does NOT exceed ten parts per million (ppm).

Maintain CO levels below ten ppm in oil lubricated compressors by using at least one of the following:

(a) An effective CO alarm

(b) An effective high temperature alarm AND testing the air supply often enough to prevent CO levels from exceeding ten ppm.

Note:	1. If you do not have a reliable CO-free area available for locating your compressor intake, consider these examples of methods to prevent CO contamination of the air supply:
	a. Use of continuous and effective carbon monoxide alarms and filters;
	b. Conduct frequent monitoring of air quality;
	c. Use a CO converter (converts CO to carbon dioxide).
	2. How often to test depends on a number of considerations, for example:
	a. Compressor age;
	b. Maintenance history of the compressor;
	c. Stability of CO readings.
	3. If the CO or high temperature alarm cannot be heard by the employee, a flashing light or other effective alternative to an audio alarm needs to be used.
	4. Safeguards, such as alarms, are necessary to prevent CO contamination resulting from compressor overheating. When alarms are provided, proper maintenance practices such as periodic inspections and calibration will help make sure alarms remain effective.
	5. Any type of oil-lubricated compressor, such as screw or piston types, may produce dangerous levels of CO if overheating occurs.
	Old compressors are known to leak oil due to worn parts, increasing the possibility for overheating. Newer compressors may also overheat if maintenance practices are poor. For example, poor maintenance practices may lead to disconnected or incorrectly set alarms, inoperative shut-offs, or an impaired cooling system.
	6. You need to instruct employees to move to a safe area when the alarm sounds AND to stop using respirators.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-20015, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17; WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-20015, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-20015, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-21005

Keep labels readable on respirator filters, cartridges, and canisters during use.

Make sure the NIOSH certification labeling and color-coding on air-purifying respirator filters, cartridges, and canisters remains readable and intact during use.

Link:

Color-coding specifications for manufacturers can be found in Title 42 C.F.R., Part 84. Visit www.cdc.gov/niosh.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-21005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-21005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-22005

Use this medical questionnaire for medical evaluations.

Use the medical questionnaire in Table 10 when conducting medical evaluations.

Note:	1. You may use a physical exam instead of this questionnaire if the exam covers the same information as the questionnaire.
	2. You may use online questionnaires if the questions are the same and the requirements in WAC 296-842-14005 of this chapter are met.
	3. You may choose to send the questionnaire to the LHCP ahead of time, giving time to review it and add any necessary questions.
	4. The LHCP determines what questions to add to the questionnaire, if any; however, questions in Parts 1-3 may not be deleted or substantially altered.

Table 10

DOSH Medical Evaluation Questionnaire
Employer instructions:
	• You may use online questionnaires if the requirements in WAC 296-842-14005 are met.
	• You must tell your employee how to deliver or send the completed questionnaire to the health care provider you have selected.
	• You must NOT review employees' questionnaires.
Health care provider's instructions:
	• Review the information in this questionnaire and any additional information provided to you by the employer.
	• You may add questions to this questionnaire at your discretion; HOWEVER, questions in Parts 1-3 may not be deleted or substantially altered.
	• Follow-up evaluation is required for any positive response to questions 1-8 in Part 2, or questions 1-6 in Part 3. This might include: Phone consultations to evaluate positive responses, medical tests, and diagnostic procedures.
	• When your evaluation is complete, send a copy of your written recommendation to the employer AND employee.
Employee information and instructions:
	• Your employer must allow you to answer this questionnaire during normal working hours, or at a time and place that is convenient to you.
	• Your employer or supervisor must not look at or review your answers at any time.

Part 1 - Employee Background Information
ALL employees must complete this part
Please print
1. Today's date:
2. Your name:
3. Your age (to nearest year):
4. Sex (circle one): Male / Female
5. Your height: ft. in.
6. Your weight: lbs.
7. Your job title:
8. A phone number where you can be reached by the health care professional who reviews this questionnaire (include Area Code):
9. The best time to call you at this number:
10. Has your employer told you how to contact the health care professional who will review this questionnaire?	Yes	/	No
11. Check the type of respirator(s) you will be using:
a. N, R, or P filtering-facepiece respirator (for example, a dust mask, OR an N95 filtering-facepiece respirator).
b. Check all that apply.
□ Half mask □ Full facepiece mask □ Helmet hood □ Escape
□ Nonpowered cartridge or canister □ Powered air-purifying cartridge respirator (PAPR)
□ Supplied-air or Air-line
Self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA): □ Demand or □ Pressure demand
Other:
12. Have you previously worn a respirator?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," describe what type(s):
Part 2 - General Health Information
ALL employees must complete this part
Please circle "Yes" or "No"
1. Do you currently smoke tobacco, or have you smoked tobacco in the last month?	Yes	/	No
2. Have you ever had any of the following conditions?
a. Seizures (fits):	Yes	/	No
b. Diabetes (sugar disease):	Yes	/	No
c. Allergic reactions that interfere with your breathing:	Yes	/	No
d. Claustrophobia (fear of closed-in places):	Yes	/	No
e. Trouble smelling odors:	Yes	/	No
3. Have you ever had any of the following pulmonary or lung problems?
a. Asbestosis:	Yes	/	No
b. Asthma:	Yes	/	No
c. Chronic bronchitis:	Yes	/	No
d. Emphysema:	Yes	/	No
e. Pneumonia:	Yes	/	No
f. Tuberculosis:	Yes	/	No
g. Silicosis:	Yes	/	No
h. Pneumothorax (collapsed lung):	Yes	/	No
i. Lung cancer:	Yes	/	No
j. Broken ribs:	Yes	/	No
k. Any chest injuries or surgeries:	Yes	/	No
l. Any other lung problem that you have been told about:	Yes	/	No
4. Do you currently have any of the following symptoms of pulmonary or lung illness?
a. Shortness of breath:	Yes	/	No
b. Shortness of breath when walking fast on level ground or walking up a slight hill or incline:	Yes	/	No
c. Shortness of breath when walking with other people at an ordinary pace on level ground:	Yes	/	No
d. Have to stop for breath when walking at your own pace on level ground:	Yes	/	No
e. Shortness of breath when washing or dressing yourself:	Yes	/	No
f. Shortness of breath that interferes with your job:	Yes	/	No
g. Coughing that produces phlegm (thick sputum):	Yes	/	No
h. Coughing that wakes you early in the morning:	Yes	/	No
i. Coughing that occurs mostly when you are lying down:	Yes	/	No
j. Coughing up blood in the last month:	Yes	/	No
k. Wheezing:	Yes	/	No
l. Wheezing that interferes with your job:	Yes	/	No
m. Chest pain when you breathe deeply:	Yes	/	No
n. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to lung problems:	Yes	/	No
5. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart problems?	Yes	/	No
a. Heart attack:	Yes	/	No
b. Stroke:	Yes	/	No
c. Angina:	Yes	/	No
d. Heart failure:	Yes	/	No
e. Swelling in your legs or feet (not caused by walking):	Yes	/	No
f. Heart arrhythmia (heart beating irregularly):	Yes	/	No
g. High blood pressure:	Yes	/	No
h. Any other heart problem that you have been told about:	Yes	/	No
6. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart symptoms?
a. Frequent pain or tightness in your chest:	Yes	/	No
b. Pain or tightness in your chest during physical activity:	Yes	/	No
c. Pain or tightness in your chest that interferes with your job:	Yes	/	No
d. In the past 2 years, have you noticed your heart skipping or missing a beat:	Yes	/	No
e. Heartburn or indigestion that is not related to eating:	Yes	/	No
f. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to heart or circulation problems:	Yes	/	No
7. Do you currently take medication for any of the following problems?	Yes	/	No
a. Breathing or lung problems:	Yes	/	No
b. Heart trouble:	Yes	/	No
c. Blood pressure:	Yes	/	No
d. Seizures (fits):	Yes	/	No
8. If you have used a respirator, have you ever had any of the following problems? (If you have never used a respirator, check the following space and go to question 9:)
a. Eye irritation:	Yes	/	No
b. Skin allergies or rashes:	Yes	/	No
c. Anxiety:	Yes	/	No
d. General weakness or fatigue:	Yes	/	No
e. Any other problem that interferes with your use of a respirator?	Yes	/	No
9. Would you like to talk to the health care professional who will review this questionnaire about your answers?	Yes	/	No
Part 3 - Additional Questions for Users of Full-Facepiece Respirators or SCBAs
Please circle "Yes" or "No"
1. Have you ever lost vision in either eye (temporarily or permanently)?	Yes	/	No
2. Do you currently have any of these vision problems?
a. Need to wear contact lenses:	Yes	/	No
b. Need to wear glasses:	Yes	/	No
c. Color blindness:	Yes	/	No
d. Any other eye or vision problem:	Yes	/	No
3. Have you ever had an injury to your ears, including a broken ear drum?	Yes	/	No
4. Do you currently have any of these hearing problems?
a. Difficulty hearing:	Yes	/	No
b. Need to wear a hearing aid:	Yes	/	No
c. Any other hearing or ear problem:	Yes	/	No
5. Have you ever had a back injury?	Yes	/	No
6. Do you currently have any of the following musculoskeletal problems?
a. Weakness in any of your arms, hands, legs, or feet:	Yes	/	No
b. Back pain:	Yes	/	No
c. Difficulty fully moving your arms and legs:	Yes	/	No
d. Pain or stiffness when you lean forward or backward at the waist:	Yes	/	No
e. Difficulty fully moving your head up or down:	Yes	/	No
f. Difficulty fully moving your head side to side:	Yes	/	No
g. Difficulty bending at your knees:	Yes	/	No
h. Difficulty squatting to the ground:	Yes	/	No
i. Climbing a flight of stairs or a ladder carrying more than 25 lbs:	Yes	/	No
j. Any other muscle or skeletal problem that interferes with using a respirator:	Yes	/	No
Part 4 - Discretionary Questions
Complete questions in this part ONLY IF your employer's health care provider says they are necessary
1. In your present job, are you working at high altitudes (over 5,000 feet) or in a place that has lower than normal amounts of oxygen?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," do you have feelings of dizziness, shortness of breath, pounding in your chest, or other symptoms when you are working under these conditions:	Yes	/	No
2. Have you ever been exposed (at work or home) to hazardous solvents, hazardous airborne chemicals (such as gases, fumes, or dust), OR have you come into skin contact with hazardous chemicals?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," name the chemicals, if you know them:
3. Have you ever worked with any of the materials, or under any of the conditions, listed below:
a. Asbestos?	Yes	/	No
b. Silica (for example, in sandblasting)?	Yes	/	No
c. Tungsten/cobalt (for example, grinding or welding this material)?	Yes	/	No
d. Beryllium?	Yes	/	No
e. Aluminum?	Yes	/	No
f. Coal (for example, mining)?	Yes	/	No
g. Iron?	Yes	/	No
h. Tin?	Yes	/	No
i. Dusty environments?	Yes	/	No
j. Any other hazardous exposures?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," describe these exposures:
4. List any second jobs or side businesses you have:
5. List your previous occupations:
6. List your current and previous hobbies:
7. Have you been in the military services?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," were you exposed to biological or chemical agents (either in training or combat)?	Yes	/	No
8. Have you ever worked on a HAZMAT team?	Yes	/	No
9. Other than medications for breathing and lung problems, heart trouble, blood pressure, and seizures mentioned earlier in this questionnaire, are you taking any other medications for any reason (including over-the-counter medications)?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," name the medications if you know them:
10. Will you be using any of the following items with your respirator(s)?
a. HEPA filters:	Yes	/	No
b. Canisters (for example, gas masks):	Yes	/	No
c. Cartridges:	Yes	/	No
11. How often are you expected to use the respirator(s)?
a. Escape-only (no rescue):	Yes	/	No
b. Emergency rescue only:	Yes	/	No
c. Less than 5 hours per week:	Yes	/	No
d. Less than 2 hours per day:	Yes	/	No
e. 2 to 4 hours per day:	Yes	/	No
f. Over 4 hours per day:
12. During the period you are using the respirator(s), is your work effort:
a. Light (less than 200 kcal per hour):	Yes	/	No
If "yes," how long does this period last during the average shift: hrs. mins.
Examples of a light work effort are sitting while writing, typing, drafting, or performing light assembly work; or standingwhile operating a drill press (1-3 lbs.) or controlling machines.
b. Moderate (200 to 350 kcal per hour):	Yes	/	No
If "yes," how long does this period last during the average shift: hrs. mins.
Examples of moderate work effort are sitting while nailing or filing; driving a truck or bus in urban traffic; standing while drilling, nailing, performing assembly work, or transferring a moderate load (about 35 lbs.) at trunk level; walking on a level surface about 2 mph or down a 5-degree grade about 3 mph; or pushing a wheelbarrow with a heavy load (about 100 lbs.) on a level surface.
c. Heavy (above 350 kcal per hour):	Yes	/	No
If "yes," how long does this period last during the average shift: hrs. mins.
Examples of heavy work are lifting a heavy load (about 50 lbs.) from the floor to your waist or shoulder; working on a loading dock; shoveling; standing while bricklaying or chipping castings; walking up an 8-degree grade about 2 mph; climbing stairs with a heavy load (about 50 lbs.).
13. Will you be wearing protective clothing and/or equipment (other than the respirator) when you are using your respirator?	Yes	/	No
If "yes," describe this protective clothing and/or equipment:
14. Will you be working under hot conditions (temperature exceeding 77°F):	Yes	/	No
15. Will you be working under humid conditions:	Yes	/	No
16. Describe the work you will be doing while using your respirator(s):
17. Describe any special or hazardous conditions you might encounter when you are using your respirator(s) (for example, confined spaces, life-threatening gases):
18. Provide the following information, if you know it, for each toxic substance that you will be exposed to when you are using your respirator(s):
Name of the first toxic substance:
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
Duration of exposure per shift:
Name of the second toxic substance:
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
Duration of exposure per shift:
Name of the third toxic substance:
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
Duration of exposure per shift:
The name of any other toxic substances that you will be exposed to while using your respirator:
19. Describe any special responsibilities you will have while using your respirator(s) that may affect the safety and well being of others (for example, rescue, security).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-22005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-22005, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-22005, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-22005, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-22010

Follow these fit-testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators.

IMPORTANT:

1. This section contains procedural requirements that apply during actual fit testing.

2. See WAC 296-842-15005 of this chapter for fit-testing requirements that apply to your overall program.

Exemptions:	This section does NOT apply to employees who:
	1. Voluntarily use respirators; or
	2. Are required to use mouthpiece respirators.

(1) Follow the procedure in Table 11 to choose a respirator for fit testing:

(a) Prior to conducting fit tests; and

(b) Any time your employee must select a different respirator such as when a previously selected respirator fails a test.

(2) Select and follow at least one of the following fit test procedures:

(a) Qualitative fit-test procedures:

(i) Isoamyl acetate vapor (IAA, banana oil) in Table 12;

(ii) Saccharine aerosol in Table 13;

(iii) Bitrex™ aerosol in Table 14;

(iv) Irritant smoke in Table 15.

(b) Quantitative fit-test procedures:

(i) Ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter such as the Portacount™, in Table 16;

(ii) Controlled negative pressure (CNP) such as the FitTester 3000™, in Table 17;

(iii) Generated aerosol in Table 18.

(3) Make sure employees perform the appropriate fit-test exercises listed in Table 19.

(4) Clean and maintain equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.

(5) Make sure during fit testing employees wear any safety equipment that could:

(a) Interfere with respirator fit; and

(b) Be worn in the workplace. For example, chemical splash goggles.

(6) Check, prior to fit testing, for conditions that may interfere with the respirator seal or valve functions. If you find such conditions, do NOT conduct fit testing for that individual.

Note:	Examples of conditions that may interfere with the respirator seal or valve functions include:
	1. Moustache, stubble, sideburns, bangs, hairline, and other types of facial hair in areas where the respirator facepiece seals or that interfere with valve function.
	2. Temple bars of corrective eyewear or headgear that extend through the face seal area.

(7) Follow the appropriate fit test exercises in Table 19 as indicated.

Table 11

Procedure for Choosing a Respirator for Fit Testing
1. Inform the employee:
	a. To choose the most comfortable respirator that provides an adequate fit
	b. That each respirator sample represents a different size and, if more than one model is supplied, a different shape
	c. That if fitted and used properly, the respirator chosen will provide adequate protection
2. Provide a mirror and show the employee how to:
	a. Put on the respirator
	b. Position the respirator on the face
	c. Set strap tension.
Note: This instruction does NOT take the place of the employee's formal training since it is only a review.
3. Review with the employee how to check for a comfortable fit around the nose, cheeks and other areas on the face.
	Tell the employee the respirator should be comfortable while talking or wearing eye protection.
4. Have the employee hold each facepiece against the face, taking enough time to compare the fit of each. The employee can then either:
	a. Reject any facepiece that clearly does not feel comfortable or fit adequately; or
	b. Choose which facepiece is most acceptable and which are less acceptable, if any.
Note: a. Supply as many respirator models and sizes as needed to make sure the employee finds a respirator that is acceptable and fits correctly b. To save time later, during this step note the more acceptable facepieces in case the one chosen fails the fit test or proves unacceptable later.
5. Have the employee wear the most acceptable respirator for AT LEAST 5 minutes to evaluate comfort and fit. Do ALL of the following during this time:
	a. Ask the employee to observe and comment about the comfort and fit:
		i. Around the nose, cheeks, and other areas on the face
		ii. When talking or wearing eye protection
	b. Have the employee put on the respirator and adjust the straps until they show proficiency
	c. Evaluate the respirator's general fit by checking:
		i. Proper chin placement
		ii. Properly tightened straps (do NOT over tighten)
		iii. Acceptable fit across the nose bridge
		iv. Respirator size; it must span the distance from nose to chin
		v. To see if the respirator stays in position
	d. Have the employee complete a successful seal check as specified in WAC 296-842-22020 of this chapter
		Prior to the seal check they must settle the respirator on their face by taking a few slow deep breaths WHILE SLOWLY:
			i. Moving their head from side-to-side; and
			ii. Up and down.
6. If the employee finds the respirator unacceptable, allow the employee to select another one and return to Step 5. Otherwise, proceed to Step 7.
7. Before starting the fit test, you must:
	a. Describe the fit test including screening procedures, employee responsibilities, and test exercises; and
	b. Make sure the employee wears the respirator AT LEAST five minutes.

Table 12

Isoamyl Acetate (Banana Oil) Vapor Test Procedure
Important:
	1. This is a qualitative fit-test (QLFT) procedure
	2. The success of this test depends on preserving the employee's odor sensitivity to isoamyl acetate (IAA) vapor
		a. Vapor accumulations in ambient air can decrease odor sensitivity. To prevent this:
			i. Prepare ALL solutions in a location separate from screening and test areas
			ii. Conduct screening and tests in separate well-ventilated rooms. For example, use an exhaust fan or laboratory hood to prevent IAA vapor from accumulating in the room air
		b. Always use odor-free water, for example, distilled or spring water that is 25°C (77°F).
	3. Isoamyl acetate is also known as isopentyl acetate.
Screening Preparations
Important:
	Odor threshold screening determines if the employee can detect weak concentrations of IAA vapor.
1. Choose an appropriate location to conduct screening.
	Conduct screening and tests in separate well-ventilated rooms.
2. Prepare a stock solution AT LEAST weekly as follows:
	a. Add one milliliter (ml) of pure IAA to 800 ml of odor-free water in a one-liter glass jar with a metal lid using a measuring dropper or pipette
	b. Seal the jar with the lid and shake it for 30 seconds
	c. Clean the dropper or pipette.
3. Prepare the odor test solution daily as follows:
	a. Add 0.4 ml from the stock solution to 500 ml of water in a one liter glass jar with a metal lid using a clean pipette or dropper
	b. Seal the jar with the lid and shake it for 30 seconds
	c. Let this solution stand for 2-3 minutes so the IAA concentration above the liquid reaches equilibrium
	d. Label this jar so you know the contents but the employee cannot know its contents, for example, "1."
Note: To maintain the integrity of the test, use labels that peel off easily AND periodically switch the labels.
4. Prepare a "test blank" solution as follows:
	a. Add 500 ml of odor-free water to a one liter glass jar with a metal lid
	b. Seal the jar
	c. Label the jar so you know the contents but the employee cannot know its contents.
5. Type or neatly print the following instructions on a card and place it on the table in front of the two test jars:
	"The purpose of this test is to find out if you can smell banana oil at a low concentration. While both jars contain water, one ALSO contains a small amount of banana oil.
	Make sure the lid is secure then pick up a jar and shake it for two seconds. Open the jar and sniff at the opening. Repeat this for the second jar.
	Tell the individual conducting the fit test which jar contains banana oil."
Test Preparations
6. Choose an appropriate location to conduct fit testing.
	Conduct screening and tests in separate well-ventilated rooms.
7. Assemble the fit test enclosure in the room.
	a. Invert a clear 55-gallon drum liner over a circular 2-foot diameter frame made of plywood or other lightweight rigid material OR construct a similar enclosure using plastic sheeting
	b. Hang the frame with the plastic covering so the top of the enclosure is about six inches above the employee's head
	c. Attach a small hook inside top center of the enclosure
	d. Tape a copy of the test exercises (see Table 19) to the inside of the test enclosure where the employee can read it.
8. Have organic vapor cartridges or equivalent on hand for each employee's chosen respirator.
9. Have ready a 6 x 5-inch piece of paper towel or other porous absorbent single-ply material AND 0.75 ml of pure IAA. Do NOT apply IAA yet.
Note: As an alternative to using the paper towel, you may use an IAA test swab OR ampoule if it has been demonstrated to generate an equivalent test concentration.
Screening
10. Have the employee, while NOT wearing a respirator, follow the instructions on the card provided.
	a. If the employee correctly identifies the jar containing IAA, proceed to conduct testing (Step 11)
	b. If the employee is NOT able to correctly identify the jar containing IAA, you must STOP and use a different fit test protocol.
Testing
11. BEFORE entering the fit test room, have the employee attach cartridges, put on, properly adjust, and seal check the respirator. Have the employee enter the test enclosure.
12. Wet the paper towel with 0.75 ml of pure IAA AND fold it in half.
13. Pass the paper towel to the employee inside the enclosure AND instruct the employee to hang it on the hook at the top of the enclosure.
14. Wait two minutes for the IAA vapor to fill the enclosure.
	a. While waiting, explain the fit test, including the purpose of the test exercises, the importance of cooperation, and that you must be informed if a banana-like odor is detected during the test
	b. You may also demonstrate the test exercises.
15. Have the employee perform the appropriate fit-test exercises in Table 19.
	a. If the employee does NOT detect IAA while performing test exercises, the fit test has been PASSED. Proceed as follows:
		i. BEFORE leaving the enclosure, have the employee break the respirator seal and inhale. If they detect IAA, the test is valid
		ii. When exiting the employee must remove the paper towel and give it to the individual conducting the fit test. This prevents IAA vapor from building up in the enclosure during subsequent tests
		iii. The individual conducting the fit test must keep used paper towels in a self-sealing plastic bag to prevent area contamination
	b. If the employee detects IAA during any test exercise, the fit test has FAILED. STOP and have the employee do the following:
		i. Quickly return to the selection room to remove the respirator. This avoids decreasing the employee's odor sensitivity
		ii. Select another respirator
		iii. Repeat screening and testing
			At this stage, if the employee fails the screening part of this procedure, the employee can repeat it AFTER waiting at least five minutes for odor sensitivity to return.

Table 13

Saccharin Aerosol Test Procedure
Screening Preparations
Important:
	This is a qualitative fit-test (QLFT) procedure
	Taste threshold screening determines whether the employee being tested can detect the taste of saccharin
		The employee must NOT eat, smoke, chew gum or drink anything but plain water for at least fifteen minutes BEFORE the fit test. Sweet foods or drink consumed before the test may make the employee unable to detect saccharin during screening
		Nebulizers must be thoroughly rinsed in water and shaken dry:
			Each morning and afternoon
			OR
			At least every four hours.
		You may use commercially prepared solutions if they meet the requirements in this procedure.
1. Obtain a test enclosure (hood) that meets the following specifications:
	a. Twelve inches in diameter by fourteen inches tall
	b. A clear front portion
	c. Enough space inside to allow free movement of the head when a respirator is worn
	d. A 3/4 inch (or 1.9 centimeter) hole to accommodate the nebulizer nozzle. The hole must line up in front of the wearer's nose and mouth.
Note: An enclosure similar to the 3M hood assembly, parts #FT 14 and #FT 15 combined, meets these specifications This enclosure can also be used for testing.
2. Obtain and assemble two clean DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizers OR equivalent.
3. Prepare the screening solution as follows:
	a. Dissolve 830.0 milligrams of sodium saccharin USP in 100 ml of warm distilled water; or
	b. IF you have already prepared the fit-test solution, you can make the screening solution by adding 1 ml of this solution to 100 ml of distilled water.
4. Add about 1 ml of the screening solution to one of the nebulizers.
	Mark this nebulizer to distinguish it from the one to be used for fit testing.
Test Preparations
5. Prepare the fit-test solution as follows:
	Add 83.0 grams of sodium saccharin to 100 ml of warm water.
6. Add about 1 ml of the test solution to the second nebulizer.
	Mark this nebulizer to distinguish it from the one to be used for screening.
7. Have particulate filters ready for the employee's chosen respirator or have filtering-facepiece respirators ready.
Screening
8. Have the employee, while NOT wearing a respirator, put on the test enclosure.
9. Instruct the employee to:
	a. Breathe through a slightly open mouth with tongue extended during screening AND testing
	b. Immediately report when a sweet taste is detected.
10. Insert the nebulizer into the front hole of the test enclosure AND administer saccharin as follows:
	a. Direct the nozzle away from the employee's nose and mouth
	b. Complete 10 squeezes in rapid succession
	c. Each time firmly squeeze the bulb so it collapses completely, then release and allow it to fully expand.
11. Ask the employee if a sweet taste is detected.
	a. If YES, screening is completed. Proceed to conduct testing, Step 14, AFTER you:
		i. Ask the employee to remember the taste for reference during the fit test
		ii. Note the employee's taste threshold as "10" regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed
	b. If NO, screening must continue. Proceed to Step 12.
12. Repeat with 10 more squeezes. Then follow Step 11 again; EXCEPT this time note the employee's taste threshold as "20" IF a sweet taste is reported.
	If a sweet taste is still NOT detected, repeat with 10 more squeezes and follow Step 11 one last time; EXCEPT this time note "30" for the taste threshold IF a sweet taste is reported.
13. If NO sweet taste is reported after 30 squeezes, you must STOP and choose a different fit-test protocol for the employee.
Test
Important!
	Periodically check nebulizers to make sure they do not clog during use. A test is NOT valid if the nebulizer is clogged at the end of the test.
14. Have the employee attach particulate filters, put on, properly adjust, and seal check the respirator. Have the employee put on the test enclosure (hood).
15. Instruct the employee to immediately report if a sweet taste is detected.
16. Insert the nebulizer into the front hole of the test enclosure AND administer the same number of squeezes, either 10, 20, or 30, as noted during screening.
17. Have the employee perform the appropriate fit-test exercises as described in Table 19. During this step:
	a. Replenish the aerosol in the hood EVERY 30 seconds using 1/2 the number of squeezes used in Step 16, either 5, 10, or 15
	b. The employee must report if a sweet taste is detected:
		If NO saccharin is tasted, the test has been PASSED
			i. If saccharin is tasted the test has FAILED, have the employee select another respirator; and
			ii. Repeat screening and testing.

Table 14

Bitrex™ Aerosol Test Procedure
Important!
	This is a qualitative fit-test (QLFT) procedure
	Bitrex™ (denatonium benzoate) is routinely used as a taste aversion agent in household liquids that children should not drink and is endorsed by the American Medical Association, the National Safety Council, and the American Association of Poison Control Centers
	The employee must NOT eat, smoke, chew gum or drink anything but plain water for at least fifteen minutes BEFORE the fit test.
Screening Preparations
Important!
	Taste threshold screening determines whether the employee being tested can detect the taste of Bitrex™
	Nebulizers must be thoroughly rinsed in water and shaken dry:
		Each morning and afternoon
		OR
		At least every four hours.
	You may use commercially prepared solutions if they meet the requirements in this procedure.
1. Obtain a test enclosure that meets the following specifications:
	a. Twelve inches in diameter by fourteen inches tall
	b. A clear front portion
	c. Enough space inside the front to allow free movement of the head when a respirator is worn
	d. 3/4 inch (or 1.9 centimeter) hole to accommodate the nebulizer nozzle. The hole must line up in front of the wearer's nose and mouth.
	Note: An enclosure similar to the 3M hood assembly, parts #FT 14 and #FT 15 combined, meets these specifications This enclosure can also be used for testing.
2. Obtain and assemble two clean DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizers OR equivalent:
3. Prepare the screening solution as follows:
	a. Make up a 5% salt solution by dissolving 5.0 grams of salt (sodium chloride) into 100 ml of distilled water
	b. Dissolve 13.5 milligrams of Bitrex™ in the salt solution.
4. Add about 1 ml of the screening solution to one of the nebulizers.
	Mark this nebulizer to distinguish it from the one to be used for fit testing.
Test Preparations
5. Prepare the fit test solution.
	a. Dissolve 10.0 grams of salt (sodium chloride) into 200 ml of distilled water
	b. Add 337.5 milligrams of Bitrex™ to the warmed salt solution.
6. Add about 1 ml of the test solution to the second nebulizer.
	Mark this nebulizer to distinguish it from the one used for screening.
7. Have particulate filters ready for the employee's chosen respirator or have filtering-facepiece respirators ready.
Screening
Important: The employee must NOT eat, smoke, chew gum or drink anything but plain water for at least fifteen minutes BEFORE the screening and test
8. Have the employee, while NOT wearing a respirator, put on the test enclosure.
9. Instruct the employee to:
	a. Breathe through a slightly opened mouth with tongue extended during screening AND testing
	b. Immediately report when a bitter taste is detected.
10. Insert the nebulizer into the front hole of the test enclosure AND administer Bitrex™ as follows:
	a. Direct the nozzle away from the employee's nose and mouth
	b. Complete 10 squeezes in rapid succession
	c. Each time firmly squeeze the bulb so it collapses completely, then release and allow it to fully expand.
11. Ask the employee whether a bitter taste is detected.
	a. If YES, screening is completed. Proceed to conduct testing, Step 14, AFTER you:
		i. Ask the employee to remember the taste for reference during the fit test
		ii. Note the employee's taste threshold as "10," regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed
	b. If NO, screening must continue. Proceed to Step 12.
12. Repeat with 10 more squeezes. Then follow Step 11 again; EXCEPT this time note the employee's taste threshold as "20" IF a bitter taste is reported.
	If a bitter taste is still NOT detected repeat with 10 more squeezes and follow Step 11 one last time; EXCEPT this time note "30" for the taste threshold IF a bitter taste is reported.
13. If NO bitter taste is reported after 30 squeezes, you must STOP and choose a different fit-test protocol for the employee.
Test
14. Have the employee attach particulate filters, put on, properly adjust, and seal check the respirator. Have the employee put on the test enclosure.
15. Instruct the employee to:
	a. Breathe through a slightly opened mouth with tongue extended during screening AND testing
	b. Immediately report when a bitter taste is detected.
16. Insert the nebulizer into the front hole of the test enclosure AND administer the same number of squeezes, either 10, 20, or 30, as noted during screening.
17. Have the employee perform the appropriate fit-test exercises as described in Table 19. During this step:
	a. Replenish the aerosol in the hood EVERY 30 seconds using 1/2 the number of squeezes used in Step 16, either 5, 10, or 15
	b. The employee must report if a bitter taste is detected:
		i. If NO Bitrex™ is tasted, the test has been PASSED
		ii. If Bitrex™ is tasted the test has FAILED. Have the employee:
			A. Select another respirator; and
			B. Repeat all screening and testing steps.

Table 15

Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride) Test Procedure
	Important:
	DO NOT USE A TEST ENCLOSURE OR HOOD FOR THIS FIT TEST!
	This is a qualitative fit-test (QLFT) procedure
	During this test an employee is exposed to irritating smoke containing hydrochloric acid produced by a stannic chloride ventilation smoke tube to detect leakage. The smoke will irritate eyes, lungs, and nasal passages
	Employee sensitivity varies, and certain employees may respond more intensely than others exposed to irritant smoke. The individual conducting the fit test must take precautions to minimize the employees' exposure to irritant smoke
	Conduct fit testing in an area with adequate ventilation to prevent exposure of the individual conducting the fit test and build-up of irritant smoke in the ambient air.
Screening AND Test Preparations
	Important:
	Sensitivity screening is necessary to determine whether the employee can detect a weak concentration of irritant smoke AND whether any gross facepiece leakage is detected.
1. Obtain only stannic chloride (ventilation) smoke tubes, AND an aspirator squeeze bulb OR use a low-flow air pump set to deliver 200 milliliters of air flow per minute.
2. Equip the employee's chosen respirator with P100 series filters if a negative pressure air-purifying respirator will be tested. If a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) will be tested equip the respirator with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
Screening
	Important!
	When performing sensitivity screening checks use only the MINIMUM amount of smoke necessary to elicit a response from the employee.
3. Advise the employee that the smoke can be irritating to eyes, lungs, and nasal passages AND instruct the employee to keep eyes closed while exposed.
4. Break both ends of the ventilation smoke tube AND fit a short piece of plastic tubing, for example, two-to-six inches of tygon tubing, over one end to prevent exposure to the sharp end of the tube. Connect the other end to an aspirator bulb or a low-flow air pump set to deliver a flow of 200 ml per minute.
5. While the employee is NOT wearing a respirator, have the employee smell a weak concentration of irritant smoke to become familiar with its irritating properties.
	Carefully direct a small amount of irritant smoke toward the employee.
Test
Test 6. Have the employee attach respirator filters, put on, adjust, and seal check the respirator without assistance. The employee must be proficient at these tasks.
7. Remind the employee to keep eyes closed during testing.
8. Direct a stream of irritant smoke toward the respirator's face seal area as follows:
	a. Begin at least 12 inches from the facepiece AND move the smoke around the whole perimeter of the mask
	b. Gradually make two more passes around the perimeter of the facepiece, moving to within 6 inches of the respirator
	c. STOP at any time the employee detects smoke in the facepiece. If this occurs a different respirator will need to be chosen and tested, beginning with sensitivity screening.
9. Have the employee perform appropriate fit-test exercises in Table 19 IF the employee has NOT had an involuntary response such as evidence of coughing, flinching, or other response, OR detected smoke in the facepiece.
	Continue to direct smoke from a distance of 6 inches around the facepiece perimeter
		If smoke is detected at any time the test has FAILED. A different respirator must be chosen and tested, starting with sensitivity screening
		If NO smoke is detected proceed to Step 10.
10. Have the employee remove the respirator AND perform another sensitivity screening check as follows:
	a. Continue to use the smoke tube used for fit testing
	b. Carefully direct a SMALL amount of irritant smoke toward the employee
		i. The test has been PASSED IF the employee responds to the smoke
		ii. The fit test is VOIDED IF the employee does NOT respond to the smoke.

Table 16

Ambient Aerosol Condensation Nuclei Counter (Portacount™) Test Procedure
Important:
	This is a quantitative (QNFT) fit-test procedure
	This method uses a particle counting instrument that measures and compares the particle concentration both inside and outside the respirator facepiece while the employee performs a series of test exercises
	Particles in the ambient air are used as the test aerosol.
Test Preparations
1. Obtain a test instrument such as a Portacount™.
2. Have probed respirators available for each respirator model and size the employer uses, OR have a sampling adapter available if the employee's actual or chosen respirator will be tested.
	Note: A probed respirator has a special fitting installed on the facepiece designed to connect with the end of the test instrument's plastic sampling tube so that air samples can be taken inside the facepiece. Probed respirators can be obtained from the respirator manufacturer, or distributor, AND can only be used for fit-testing purposes Contact TSI Inc., OR the respirator's manufacturer to obtain probed respirators or facepiece sampling adapters.
3. Follow the test instrument manufacturer's instructions for test preparation, including particle, zero, and system checks. Make sure the instrument's pass OR fail criterion is programmed to the following MINIMUM performance levels:
	a. For half-facepiece respirators, an overall minimum fit factor of 100 as a passing level
	b. For full-facepiece respirators, an overall minimum fit factor of 500 as a passing level
4. Have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, OR other respirator filters available that are capable of preventing significant penetration by particles generated by the test instrument such as, P100 or N95 series filters.
	If you will use a sampling adapter instead of probed respirators be sure to have the correct type for the respirators chosen.
Test
5. Properly attach the sampling line to the facepiece probe or sampling adapter.
6. Have the employee attach respirator filters, put on, properly adjust, and wear the respirator five minutes BEFORE the fit test. During this time you and the employee must evaluate the respirator's general fit by checking:
	a. Proper chin placement
	b. Properly tightened straps (do NOT over tighten)
	c. Acceptable fit across the nose bridge
	d. Respirator size. It must span the distance from nose to chin
	e. To see if the respirator stays in position.
	Note: Wearing the respirator for five minutes permits the employee to make certain the respirator is comfortable AND allows for purging of ambient particles trapped inside the facepiece.
7. Have the employee perform a seal check. Make sure the sampling line is crimped to avoid leakage during the seal check. If NO leakage is detected, proceed to Step 8. If leakage is detected:
	a. Determine the cause; and
	b. If leakage is due to a poorly fitting facepiece, have the employee:
		i. Choose another respirator size or model; and
		ii. Start again at Step 6.
8. Start the fit test cycle.
	a. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the test instrument
	b. Have the employee perform the appropriate fit-test exercises in Table 19
		The test instrument will automatically stop and calculate the overall fit factor. Use this result to determine whether or not the test is passed
			The test has been PASSED if the overall fit factor is at least 100 for a half facepiece, OR 500 for a full facepiece
			The test has FAILED if the overall fit factor is below 100 for a half facepiece or 500 for a full facepiece.
			Note: If the test has failed, have the employee select another respirator model or size following Table 11 AND repeat this procedure.

Table 17

Controlled Negative Pressure (CNP) Test Procedure
Important!
	This is a quantitative fit-test (QNFT) procedure
	This method determines respirator fit by measuring how much the facepiece leaks when it is subject to a slight negative pressure AFTER various premeasurement activities
	Instruments used must have a nonadjustable test pressure of 15.0 mm water pressure
	Measurements occur while employees remain still AND hold their breath for 10 seconds
	No test aerosols are used. Respirator cartridges are not needed for this test. Sampling manifolds that replace the filter cartridges are available from the instrument manufacturer, and allow fit testing of an employee's own respirator.
Test Preparations
1. Make sure the individual conducting the fit test is thoroughly trained to perform this test.
2. Obtain a CNP test instrument such as a FitTester 3000™. Make sure:
	a. Defaults are set at:
		i. -15mm (-0.58 inches) of water test pressure; and
		ii. A modeled inspiratory flow rate of 53.8 liters per minute
	b. It has an effective audio warning device or visual screen tracing that signals when employees fail to hold their breath.
	Note: You are not required to obtain test recording and printing equipment such as computers OR printers. Hand recording results is acceptable To see default settings, check the instrument's "REDON protocol."
3. Obtain facepiece adapters appropriate for each test respirator.
	Note: Adapters are either a one-piece (for SCBA facepieces), OR two-piece (for dual cartridge facepieces) device providing a manifold and breathing valve system. For positive pressure respirators, you will need to obtain an additional fitting, available from the respirator manufacturer, to convert the facepiece to negative pressure To obtain adapters, contact the CNP instrument's distributor, Occupational Health Dynamics, OR the respirator manufacturer.
Test
Important!
	The respirator must not be adjusted once the fit-test exercises begin. Any adjustment voids the test and the test must be repeated.
4. Explain the test procedure to the employee.
5. Train the employee on how to hold a breath for at least 10 seconds.
6. Prepare the respirator for the fit test as follows:
	a. Remove or prop open the inhalation valves. If a breathing tube is present, disconnect it
	b. Replace cartridges, if present, with the manifold and breathing valve adapter
		For positive pressure facepieces, mount the manufacturer's additional fitting followed by the manifold-breathing valve adapter
	c. Connect the respirator to the CNP device according to the CNP instrument manufacturer's directions.
7. Have the employee put on, adjust, and seal check the respirator without assistance.
8. Turn on the instrument AND have the employee stand and perform the fit-test exercises in Table 19. Once exercises begin, any adjustments will void the test and you must begin again.
9. Once test exercises are completed, ask the employee about facepiece comfort. If the employee states the respirator is unacceptable, repeat the fit test using another size or model.
10. Determine the overall fit factor for each employee by calculating the harmonic mean of the fit-testing exercises as follows:
	Overall fit factor =		n
		1/ffE1 + 1/ffE2 + 1/ffE3 . . . + 1/ffEn
		Where:
		n = The number of exercises;
		ffE1 = The fit factor for the first exercise;
		ffE2 = The fit factor for the second exercise;
		ffE3 = The fit factor for the third exercise; and
		ffEn = The fit factor for the nth exercise.
	The test is PASSED IF the overall fit factor obtained is at least 100 for a half facepiece, or at least 500 for a full facepiece
	The test has FAILED IF the fit factor is less than 100 for a half facepiece; 500 for a full facepiece
		If the test has FAILED you must have the employee select another respirator model or size following the steps in Table 11 AND repeat this procedure, starting at Step 6.

Table 18

Generated Aerosol Test Procedure
	Important:
	• This is a quantitative (QNFT) fit-test procedure
	• In this method, a test aerosol is used to challenge the facepiece seal while aerosol concentrations inside and outside the facepiece are measured during test exercises
	• Special equipment is needed to generate, disperse, detect, and measure test aerosols.
Test Preparations
1. Test aerosol.
	Use a particulate, for example, corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400, di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate, or sodium chloride.
2. Instrumentation.
	Do ALL the following:
		a. Obtain and use aerosol generation, dilution, and measurement systems appropriate for particulates
		b. Use an aerosol-generating instrument that will maintain test concentrations within a 10% variation
		c. Select a sampling instrument that allows for a computer record or strip chart record to be created
			The record must show the rise and fall of test agent concentration during each inhalation and exhalation at fit factors of at least 2000.
			Note:		Integrators, or computers that integrate the amount of test agent penetration leakage into the respirator for each exercise, may be used if a record of the readings is made.
		d. Minimize the time interval between the activity and the recording of the activity so you can clearly connect what you see to what is being recorded. For example, use a small diameter and length of sampling line.
3. Test enclosure.
	Do ALL the following:
		a. Make sure the enclosure is equipped and constructed to effectively:
			i. Maintain a uniform concentration of the test agent inside the enclosure. For example, the enclosure must be large enough to allow ALL employees freedom of movement during testing WITHOUT disturbing the test concentration or measurement instrument
			ii. Keep the test agent from contaminating the air outside the enclosure. For example, use a HEPA filter to purify exhausted air
			iii. Allow the individual conducting the fit test to view the employee during the test
		b. Make sure the tubing used to collect samples from the enclosure AND respirator is the same material, diameter, AND length. This makes the effect of aerosol loss caused by deposition in each sample line equal
		c. If sodium chloride is used, relative humidity inside the enclosure must be kept below 50%.
4. Prepare test respirators.
	Do ALL the following:
		a. Inspect test respirators regularly for missing parts AND damage
		b. Keep test respirators in proper working order
		c. Make sure in-mask sampling probes are:
			i. Designed and installed so the air sample will be drawn from the employee's breathing zone; midway between the nose and mouth; and
			ii. The probe extends inside the facepiece at least 1/4 inch
		d. Make sure sampling ports such as probes, or adapters on respirators are constructed and installed so they do NOT:
			i. Block air flow into the sampling line
			ii. Leak
			iii. Interfere with the respirator's fit or performance
	Have high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters OR P100 series filter available
		Replace filters when increased breathing resistance is detected OR when the test agent has altered the filter material's integrity.
Test
	Important!
	Throughout the test, maintain the employee's exposure to any test agent below the established exposure limit. Exposures allowed must be based on exposure time and exposure limit duration
	If a single peak penetration exceeds 5% for half facepieces OR 1% for full facepieces:
		STOP the test; and
		Have the employee select another respirator for testing.
5. Have the employee attach filters, put on, adjust, and seal check the respirator.
	a. Be sure to crimp the sampling line to avoid pressure leaks during the seal check; and
	b. Have the employee adjust the respirator straps, without assistance, so the fit is comfortable. Do NOT over tighten.
6. OPTIONAL Step. To save time conduct a screening test to quickly identify poorly fitting respirators.
	Note: You may use a qualitative screening test OR an ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter instrument in the count mode.
7. Make sure test aerosol concentration is reasonably stable.
	If a canopy or shower curtain enclosure is used, determine stability of the test aerosol concentration AFTER the employee enters the enclosure.
8. Have the employee enter the test enclosure and connect the respirator to the sample lines.
9. Immediately after entering the enclosure measure test aerosol concentration inside the respirator.
	Make sure the peak penetration does NOT exceed 5% for half facepieces, OR 1% for full facepieces.
10. Have employee perform the appropriate fit-test exercises in Table 19.
	Do NOT adjust the respirator once exercises begin.
11. Calculate the overall fit factor as specified in Steps 12-13. The fit test is:
	a. PASSED IF the minimum fit factor of 100 for half facepieces OR 500 for full facepieces is obtained; or
	b. IF a passing fit factor is NOT obtained, the test has FAILED and you must have the employee select and test another respirator.
Calculations
	Important!
	Do NOT count the grimace exercise measurements during these calculations
	Take into account the limitations of instrument detection when determining fit factors.
12. Calculate individual fit factors for EACH exercise by applying the following:
		Exercise fit factor (ffE) = Average test enclosure concentration
							Test aerosol concentration inside the respirator
			a. To determine the average test enclosure concentration use one of the following methods:
				i. Arithmetic average of the concentration before and after each test (an average of two values per entire test)
				ii. Arithmetic average of concentration before and after each exercise (an average of two values per exercise)
				iii. True average measured continuously during the respirator sample
			b. Determine the test aerosol concentration inside the respirator in one of the following ways:
				Average peak penetration values. Determine aerosol penetration for each exercise by:
					i. Using integrators or computers that calculate the actual test agent penetration; or
					ii. Average the peak heights shown on the strip chart recording, graph, or by computer integration
				c. Maximum peak penetration. Use strip chart recordings to determine the highest peak penetration for each exercise and use this value
				d. Area under the peaks. Use computerized integration or other appropriate calculations to integrate the area under individual peaks for each exercise.
13. Using individual exercise fit factors (ffE) calculate the overall fit factor by doing ALL of the following:
			a. Convert each exercise fit factor to a penetration value;
			b. Determine the average penetration value;
			c. Convert the average penetration value back to a fit factor; or
			Use this equation to calculate the overall fit factor:
			Overall fit factor =				n
						1/ffE1 + 1/ffE2 + 1/ffE3 . . . + 1/ffEn
						Where:
						n = The number of exercises;
						ffE1 = The fit factor for the first exercise;
						ffE2 = The fit factor for the second exercise;
						ffE3 = The fit factor for the third exercise; and
						ffEn = The fit factor for the nth exercise.

Table 19

Fit-Test Exercises
Important:
This list applies when you use any fit test
Employees tested must perform ALL exercises marked with an "X" as described for the fit-test procedure used
	Once exercises begin, any adjustments made void the test AND you must begin again
	After test exercises are completed, you must ask the employee about the comfort of the respirator. If it has become unacceptable, have the employee choose another one for testing
When the controlled negative pressure procedure is used, STOP and repeat the test if the employee adjusts the respirator OR takes a breath and fails to hold it for 10 seconds
Controlled negative pressure tests conducted according to the method published in 29 C.F.R. 1910.134, Appendix A are an acceptable alternative to the method outlined below.
Description of Required Fit-Test Exercises			Fit-Test Procedures
Description of Required Fit-Test Exercises			Qualitative Procedures	Quantitative Procedures; EXCEPT the CNPP	Controlled Negative Pressure Procedure (CNPP)
Normal breathing
	Breathe normally, while standing for one minute		X	X
Deep breathing
	Breathe slowly and deeply while standing for one minute		X	X
	Take caution to avoid hyperventilating
Head side to side
	Slowly turn head from side to side while standing for one minute, pausing at each extreme position to inhale		X	X
	Be careful to NOT bump the respirator
Head up and down
	Slowly move head up and down while standing for one minute, inhaling in the up position		X	X
	Be careful to NOT bump the respirator
Talking
	Talk slowly and loud enough to be heard clearly by the individual conducting fit testing for one minute. Choose ONE of the following:
		Read from a prepared text such as the Rainbow Passage1	X	X
		Count backward from 100
		Recite a memorized poem or song.
Grimace
	Smile or frown for fifteen seconds.			X
Bending over
	Bend over to touch toes while standing. Repeat at a comfortable pace for one minute
	OR		X	X
	Jog in place for one minute if the test enclosure, such as a hood, does not permit bending over
Normal breathing
	Breathe normally while standing for one minute		X	X
Face forward
	Premeasurement activity: Stand and breath normally, without talking, for 30 seconds				X
	Measurement position: Face forward while holding breath for 10 seconds
Bending over
	Premeasurement activity: While standing, bend at the waist, as if to touch toes				X
	Measurement position: Hold the bending position with face parallel to the floor while holding breath for 10 seconds
Head shaking
	Premeasurement activity: Vigorously shake head from side to side for about 3 seconds while shouting				X
	Measurement position: Face forward, while holding breath for 10 seconds
Redon-1
	Premeasurement activity: Loosen all facepiece straps and remove the respirator completely, then put it back on				X
	Measurement position: Face forward while holding breath for 10 seconds
Redon-2
	Repeat the premeasurement activity and measurement position described in Redon-1				X

1The Rainbow Passage:

"When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act like a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into many beautiful colors. These take the shape of a long round arch, with its path high above, and its two ends apparently beyond the horizon. There is, according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People look, but no one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow."

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-22010, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-22010, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-22010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-22010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-22015

Follow procedures established for cleaning and disinfecting respirators.

Follow the procedure in Table 20 for cleaning and disinfecting respirators.

Table 20

Respirator Cleaning Procedure

Step	Task
1.	Remove filters, cartridges, canisters, speaking diaphragms, demand and pressure valve assemblies, hoses, or any components recommended by the manufacturer.
		• Discard or repair any defective parts.
2.	Wash components in warm (43°C (110°F) maximum) water with a mild detergent or with a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer
		a. A stiff bristle (not wire) brush may be used to help remove the dirt
		b. If the detergent or cleaner does not contain a disinfecting agent, respirator components should be immersed for two minutes in one of the following:
			i. A bleach solution (concentration of 50 parts per million of chlorine). Make this by adding approximately one milliliter of laundry bleach to one liter of water at 43°C (110°F)
			ii. A solution of iodine (50 parts per million iodine). Make this in two steps:
				A. First, make a tincture of iodine by adding 6-8 grams of solid ammonium iodide and/or potassium iodide to 100 cc of 45% alcohol approximately
				B. Second, add 0.8 milliliters of the tincture to one liter of water at 43°C (110°F) to get the final solution
		c. Other commercially available cleansers of equivalent disinfectant quality when used as directed, if their use is recommended or approved by the respirator manufacturer.
3.	Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43°C (110°F) maximum), preferably, running water.
	Note: The importance of thorough rinsing cannot be overemphasized. Detergents or disinfectants that dry on facepieces could cause dermatitis. In addition, some disinfectants may cause deterioration of rubber or corrosion of metal parts, if not completely removed.
4.	Drain components.
5.	Air-dry components or hand dry components with a clean, lint-free cloth.
6.	Reassemble the facepiece components.
		Replace filters, cartridges, and canisters, if necessary (for testing).
7.	Test the respirator to make sure all components work properly.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-22015, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17; WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-22015, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-22015, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

PDF296-842-22020

Follow procedures established for seal checking respirators.

Make sure employees perform a user seal check as outlined in Table 21 each time the respirator is worn, to make sure the seal is adequate.

IMPORTANT:

1. User seal checks are NOT a substitute for fit tests. See WAC 296-842-22010 for fit test procedures.

2. You may use a seal check procedure recommended by the respirator manufacturer INSTEAD of the procedure outlined in Table 21 if you can demonstrate the procedure is based on a scientific study that, for example, demonstrates the procedure effectively identifies respirators that fit poorly when put on or adjusted.

Table 21

User Seal Check Procedure
Important information for employees:
	You need to conduct a seal check each time you put your respirator on BEFORE you enter the respirator use area. The purpose of a seal check is to make sure your respirator (which has been previously fit tested by your employer) is properly positioned on your face to prevent leakage during use and to detect functional problems
	The procedure below has two parts; a positive pressure check and a negative pressure check. You must complete both parts each time. It should only take a few seconds to perform, once you learn it
	If you cannot pass both parts, your respirator is NOT functioning properly, see your supervisor for further instruction.
Positive pressure check:
1. Remove exhalation valve cover, if removable.
2. Cover the exhalation valve completely with the palm of your hand WHILE exhaling gently to inflate the facepiece slightly.
3. The respirator facepiece should remain inflated (indicating a build-up of positive pressure and NO outward leakage).
	a. If you detect NO leakage, replace the exhalation valve cover (if removed), and proceed to conduct the negative pressure check
	b. If you detect evidence of leakage, reposition the respirator (after removing and inspecting it), and try the positive pressure check again.
Negative pressure check:
4. Completely cover the inhalation opening(s) on the cartridges or canister with the palm(s) of your hands WHILE inhaling gently to collapse the facepiece slightly.
	If you cannot use the palm(s) of your hands to effectively cover the inhalation openings on cartridges or canisters, you may use:
		Filter seal(s) (if available)
		OR
		Thin rubber gloves.
5. Once the facepiece is collapsed, hold your breath for 10 seconds WHILE keeping the inhalation openings covered.
6. The facepiece should remain slightly collapsed (indicating negative pressure and NO inward leakage).
	a. If you detect NO evidence of leakage, the tightness of the facepiece is considered adequate, the procedure is completed, and you may now use the respirator
	b. If you detect leakage, reposition the respirator (after removing and inspecting it) and repeat BOTH the positive and negative fit checks.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-842-22020, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.050 and 29 C.F.R. Subpart Z. WSR 09-19-119, § 296-842-22020, filed 9/22/09, effective 12/1/09. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-05-072, § 296-842-22020, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 03-20-114, § 296-842-22020, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]