Respiratory Protection

Respiratory Protection Program for Bob’s Tank Welding and Cleaning Service

Nicholas Giordano

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Abstract

Respiratory protection is technically sophisticated, designed, built, and tested to meet and exceed standards of performance and safety. Respiratory protection must be properly selected and fitted, and workers must be properly trained on how to use it, when to use it, and how to maintain it. This paper is an example of a written respiratory protection program for a fictitious company named Bob’s Tank Welding and Cleaning Service. This written program lays out the respiratory program requirements for this company’s employees to follow. Subjects discussed in this program are applicability, responsibilities, medical evaluations, inspection and maintenance, fit testing, and training.

Respiratory protection is considered the least desirable method of controlling Employees exposure to hazardous atmospheres (International Safety Equipment Association, 2014). Use respiratory protection only when:

1) Airborne concentrations are, or there is a reasonable chance that they could be, above the Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs);

2) Engineering and administration controls are not feasible or do not control exposures to acceptable levels;

3) When required by emergency procedures.

Employees will wear the respirators during:

1) Welding operations that have the potential to release welding fume or toxic/harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen oxides, gaseous fluoride, or phosgene;

2) Any tank cleaning operation where hazardous chemicals may be present and airborne concentrations are, or there is a reasonable chance that they could be, above the OEL.

General responsibilities for personnel involved in the Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) are found in 29 CFR 1910.134. Specific responsibilities regarding implementation of this Respiratory Protection Program are addressed below.

Bob’s Tank...