subject: Using a Respirator As Your Need [print this page] Respirator is a mask that is worn over your face that can be used to filter the air that you breathe. It is usually worn while it is working under the condition where it is harmful contaminants in the air. The air purifying respirator is the most common and can also be disposable or even reusable.
The first thing that you have to do is that you should to get fit-tested. There are many qualified people that will ensure your respirator fits properly, assuring that there is not gap around your mask and it will fit your face comfortably therefore it will not restrict your work. Then call your local hospital in order to see where your closest occupational medicine clinic is located. After that you can place your respirator over your nose and mouth to make sure that the strap is tight yet comfortably.
Conduct a seal test. You have to do this anytime you put on the respirator to make sure that the contaminants are not leaking in around your face. In doing this while using a reusable respirator, at first you need to cover the exhalation port while breathing outward forcefully.
You should not feel that there is some air escape around your face. After that, you can cover the cartridges containing the filters while taking the deep and forceful breath inward. You have to find it difficult in order to take in air, and you will not feel air coming in around your face. With the disposable respirator, you can simply cover the entire mask with hands and breathe in and out powerfully, to make sure that there is no air escapes around your face.
You can work as usual. When your respirator is properly used, it should not hinder your breathing and also should not get in the way of the vision. If it does, adjust it to get a different respirator.
Inspect the respirator frequently before and after you use it. It should be free from cracks, tears, wear, and it should have the clean filter in place. After that, replace the respirator filter cartridges on the regular basis. It may be each work day if you use your respirator under dirty conditions.
