Element 8.11 Respiratory Protection - Gap Analysis

Some respiratory protection is provided.

Written program specifies: • Roles and responsibilities; • Jobs which require respiratory protection; • Requirements for facial hair; • Cartridge change-out frequencies for respirators; • Fit testing; • Medical requirements; • Procedure for voluntary usage; • Employee training requirements.. A revision log shall be included as part of the written program.

Respiratory equipment and supplies are sufficient.

Written program is reviewed annually and updated as necessary. The revision log has been maintained to reflect the annual review and any other changes made to the written program throughout the year.

Supervisors , and all employees required or authorized to wear respiratory protection receive formalized training, including exams, upon assignment and on an annual basis thereafter.

Trainers are competent and qualified to train on the subject matter.

Site maintains a list of employees authorized to wear a respirator (mandatory and voluntary) which includes the types of respirators they are approved to wear and dates of last formalized training and fit test.

Supervisors have the knowledge via experience or training to know if employees are following the appropriate processes and procedures.

Process is in place to assure appropriate fit.

Employees know how to inspect equipment and do so at required frequencies.

Employees store and maintain equipment as necessary.

Medical specific requirements are being met.

Respiratory protection (required and voluntary) is used only after approval has been received in accordance with the written program.

Employees have been fit tested per regulatory requirements and company policy.

Respiratory protection is worn correctly by all employees at all times when required.

Equipment is taken out of service for safety issues when required.