Respirators might seem like a straightforward piece of PPE, but the truth is that they're just the opposite.

Respirators require a great deal of understanding ranging from the contaminant from which you wish to protect yourself to the environment in which you are using the respirator. These variables can make the selection and use of the respirator somewhat complicated. For these reasons, we have put together a list of common respirator myths.

Myth #1:
I know it is time to change the cartridge on my respirator when I begin to taste or smell the chemical.

Fact:
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, a respirator change schedule needs to be established. You cannot rely on your olfactory senses because taste and smell are different for everyone. If you have been working with the same chemical for extended amounts of time, you could become desensitized to the chemical.

Myth #2:
Employees using respirators voluntarily will not require the company to establish a respiratory protection program.

Fact:
Certain parts of OSHA's respiratory protection program will need to be employed depending on the type of respirator being worn. If the employee is voluntarily using an N95 respirator, the employer must present the employee with a copy of OSHA's appendix D or the state equivalent. The employee, in this case, is responsible for selecting the appropriate respirator, keeping track of the respirator and keeping it clean. If the employee is voluntarily using a filtering face piece such as a half mask respirator with dual cartridges, in addition to the employee receiving a copy of appendix D or the state equivalent, the employer must also make sure the employee is medically able to wear the respirator.

Myth #3
Facial hair does not affect the fit or seal of a respirator.

Fact:
Facial hair, such as a beard or mustache, can affect your respirator's ability to protect you. Anything that comes between your face and the respirator's seal or obstructs the exhalation valve can allow contaminated air to leak into the respirator; thus by-passing the filters and leaving you unprotected.

Myth #4:
I can use a half mask respirator and indirect vent goggles when working with formaldehyde.

Fact:
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1048 employers must equip their employees with an air-purifying, full-face respirator with a canister or cartridge approved for protection against formaldehyde. Employers may substitute an air-purifying, half-mask respirator for an air-purifying, full-face piece respirator when they equip the half-mask respirator with a cartridge approved for protection against formaldehyde and provide the affected employee with effective gas-proof goggles.

For additional information on personal protective equipment (including respirators), please visit the safety section of the webinar page on our website. Also, Grainger offers an extensive selection of respirator products.