Toolbox Talk: Respiratory Protection in Construction

Introduction

Respiratory hazards are common in construction, and it’s essential to protect our lungs from harmful dust, fumes, vapors, and gases. Following OSHA standards, we’ll cover why respiratory protection is crucial, how to use it properly, and the types of respiratory protection available.

Why Respiratory Protection is Important

Construction activities such as demolition, cutting, welding, and painting can release airborne contaminants that pose serious health risks, including:

• Silica dust: Can cause silicosis, a chronic lung disease.
• Asbestos fibers: Can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
• Welding fumes: Can cause metal fume fever and lung cancer.
• Chemical vapors: Can lead to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and central nervous system effects.

OSHA Standards

OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134) requires employers to:

1. Assess the workplace for respiratory hazards.
2. Provide appropriate respiratory protection to employees.
3. Implement a written respiratory protection program.
4. Conduct fit testing for tight-fitting respirators.
5. Provide training on the proper use, maintenance, and limitations of respirators.

Types of Respiratory Protection

1. Air-Purifying Respirators (APRs):
   • Disposable Particulate Respirators (N95 masks): Filter out dust, fumes, and mists.
   • Half-Mask and Full-Face Respirators: Use cartridges or filters to purify the air.
   • Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs): Use a battery-operated blower to pass contaminated air through filters.
2. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators:
   • Supplied-Air Respirators (SARs): Provide clean air from a stationary source.
   • Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): Supply air from a portable tank.

Proper Use and Maintenance

1. Selection: Choose the right respirator for the hazard. Refer to OSHA’s Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) to determine the appropriate respirator.
2. Fit Testing: Conduct fit tests annually and whenever a new respirator type is used. A proper fit ensures a good seal.
3. User Seal Check: Perform a seal check every time you put on a respirator to ensure no air leaks.
4. Inspection: Inspect the respirator before each use. Check for cracks, tears, and missing parts.
5. Cleaning and Storage: Clean reusable respirators after each use and store them in a clean, dry place.
6. Replacement: Replace filters and cartridges according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or when breathing becomes difficult.

Training

Employees must be trained on:

• When and why respiratory protection is needed.
• How to properly put on, take off, and wear respirators.
• Limitations and capabilities of the respirator.
• Proper maintenance and storage.

Responsibilities

Employer Responsibilities:

• Conduct hazard assessments.
• Provide appropriate respirators and training.
• Implement and maintain a respiratory protection program.

Employee Responsibilities:

• Use the provided respirators correctly.
• Attend training sessions.
• Report any issues with respirators to supervisors.
• Follow the respiratory protection program.

Conclusion

Respiratory protection is a critical aspect of our safety program. By following OSHA standards and using the correct respiratory protection, we can prevent serious health issues and ensure a safe working environment. If you have any questions or concerns about respiratory protection, please speak up. Your safety is our top priority.

Stay safe and breathe easy!

Thank you for your attention. Let’s continue to work safely and protect our health on the job.

Additional Resources:

• OSHA Respiratory Protection eTool
• NIOSH Respirator Trusted-Source Information