§1910.134 Respiratory protection

[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 29, Volume 5]
[Revised as of January 1, 2007]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 29CFR1910.134]

[Page 419-445]

TITLE 29--LABOR

CHAPTER XVII--OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT

OF LABOR

PART 1910_OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS--Table of Contents

Subpart I_Personal Protective Equipment

Sec. 1910.134 Respiratory protection.

This section applies to General Industry (part 1910), Shipyards

(part 1915), Marine Terminals (part 1917), Longshoring (part 1918), and

Construction (part 1926).

(a) Permissible practice. (1) In the control of those occupational

diseases caused by breathing air contaminated with harmful dusts, fogs,

fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the primary objective

shall be to prevent atmospheric contamination. This shall be

accomplished as far as feasible by accepted engineering control measures

(for example, enclosure or confinement of the operation, general and

local ventilation, and substitution of less toxic materials). When

effective engineering controls are not feasible, or while they are being

instituted, appropriate respirators shall be used pursuant to this

section.

(2) Respirators shall be provided by the employer when such

equipment is necessary to protect the health of the employee. The

employer shall provide the respirators which are applicable and suitable

for the purpose intended. The employer shall be responsible for the

establishment and maintenance of a respiratory protection program which

shall include the requirements outlined in paragraph (c) of this

section.

(b) Definitions. The following definitions are important terms used

in the respiratory protection standard in this section.

Air-purifying respirator means a respirator with an air-purifying

filter, cartridge, or canister that removes specific air contaminants by

passing ambient air through the air-purifying element.

Assigned protection factor (APF) means the workplace level of

respiratory protection that a respirator or class of respirators is

expected to provide to employees when the employer implements a

continuing, effective respiratory protection program as specified by

this section.

Atmosphere-supplying respirator means a respirator that supplies the

respirator user with breathing air from a source independent of the

ambient atmosphere, and includes supplied-air respirators (SARs) and

self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.

Canister or cartridge means a container with a filter, sorbent, or

catalyst, or combination of these items, which removes specific

contaminants from the air passed through the container.

Demand respirator means an atmosphere-supplying respirator that

admits breathing air to the facepiece only when a negative pressure is

created inside the facepiece by inhalation.

Emergency situation means any occurrence such as, but not limited

to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control

equipment that may or does result in an uncontrolled significant release

of an airborne contaminant.

Employee exposure means exposure to a concentration of an airborne

contaminant that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory

protection.

End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) means a system that warns the

respirator user of the approach of the end of adequate respiratory

protection, for example, that the sorbent is approaching saturation or

is no longer effective.

Escape-only respirator means a respirator intended to be used only

for emergency exit.

Filter or air purifying element means a component used in

respirators to remove solid or liquid aerosols from the inspired air.

[[Page 420]]

Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means a negative pressure

particulate respirator with a filter as an integral part of the

facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering medium.

Fit factor means a quantitative estimate of the fit of a particular

respirator to a specific individual, and typically estimates the ratio

of the concentration of a substance in ambient air to its concentration

inside the respirator when worn.

Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitatively or

quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual. (See

also Qualitative fit test QLFT and Quantitative fit test QNFT.)

Helmet means a rigid respiratory inlet covering that also provides

head protection against impact and penetration.

High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter means a filter that is

at least 99.97% efficient in removing monodisperse particles of 0.3

micrometers in diameter. The equivalent NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate

filters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.

Hood means a respiratory inlet covering that completely covers the

head and neck and may also cover portions of the shoulders and torso.

Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) means an atmosphere

that poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse

health effects, or would impair an individual's ability to escape from a

dangerous atmosphere.

Interior structural firefighting means the physical activity of fire

suppression, rescue or both, inside of buildings or enclosed structures

which are involved in a fire situation beyond the incipient stage. (See

29 CFR 1910.155)

Loose-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that is

designed to form a partial seal with the face.

Maximum use concentration (MUC) means the maximum atmospheric

concentration of a hazardous substance from which an employee can be

expected to be protected when wearing a respirator, and is determined by

the assigned protection factor of the respirator or class of respirators

and the exposure limit of the hazardous substance. The MUC can be

determined mathematically by multiplying the assigned protection factor

specified for a respirator by the required OSHA permissible exposure

limit, short-term exposure limit, or ceiling limit. When no OSHA

exposure limit is available for a hazardous substance, an employer must

determine an MUC on the basis of relevant available information and

informed professional judgment.

Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting) means a respirator in

which the air pressure inside the facepiece is negative during

inhalation with respect to the ambient air pressure outside the

respirator.

Oxygen deficient atmosphere means an atmosphere with an oxygen

content below 19.5% by volume.

Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) means

an individual whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license,

registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently

provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some or all of

the health care services required by paragraph (e) of this section.

Positive pressure respirator means a respirator in which the

pressure inside the respiratory inlet covering exceeds the ambient air

pressure outside the respirator.

Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) means an air-purifying

respirator that uses a blower to force the ambient air through air-

purifying elements to the inlet covering.

Pressure demand respirator means a positive pressure atmosphere-

supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece when the

positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.

Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test to assess the

adequacy of respirator fit that relies on the individual's response to

the test agent.

Quantitative fit test (QNFT) means an assessment of the adequacy of

respirator fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the

respirator.

Respiratory inlet covering means that portion of a respirator that

forms the protective barrier between the user's respiratory tract and an

air-purifying device or breathing air source, or both. It may be a

facepiece, helmet, hood,

[[Page 421]]

suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with nose clamp.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) means an atmosphere-

supplying respirator for which the breathing air source is designed to

be carried by the user.

Service life means the period of time that a respirator, filter or

sorbent, or other respiratory equipment provides adequate protection to

the wearer.

Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respirator means an

atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the source of breathing air is

not designed to be carried by the user.

This section means this respiratory protection standard.

Tight-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet covering that

forms a complete seal with the face.

User seal check means an action conducted by the respirator user to

determine if the respirator is properly seated to the face.

employer to develop and implement a written respiratory protection

program with required worksite-specific procedures and elements for

required respirator use. The program must be administered by a suitably

trained program administrator. In addition, certain program elements may

be required for voluntary use to prevent potential hazards associated

with the use of the respirator. The Small Entity Compliance Guide

contains criteria for the selection of a program administrator and a

sample program that meets the requirements of this paragraph. Copies of

the Small Entity Compliance Guide will be available on or about April 8,

1998 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Office of

Publications, Room N 3101, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC,

20210 (202-219-4667).

(1) In any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect the

health of the employee or whenever respirators are required by the

employer, the employer shall establish and implement a written

respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures. The

program shall be updated as necessary to reflect those changes in

workplace conditions that affect respirator use. The employer shall

include in the program the following provisions of this section, as

applicable:

(i) Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace;

(ii) Medical evaluations of employees required to use respirators;

(iii) Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;

(iv) Procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and

reasonably foreseeable emergency situations;

(v) Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing,

inspecting, repairing, discarding, and otherwise maintaining

respirators;

(vi) Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and flow

of breathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators;

(vii) Training of employees in the respiratory hazards to which they

are potentially exposed during routine and emergency situations;

(viii) Training of employees in the proper use of respirators,

including putting on and removing them, any limitations on their use,

and their maintenance; and

(ix) Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the

program.

(2) Where respirator use is not required:

(i) An employer may provide respirators at the request of employees

or permit employees to use their own respirators, if the employer

determines that such respirator use will not in itself create a hazard.

If the employer determines that any voluntary respirator use is

permissible, the employer shall provide the respirator users with the

information contained in Appendix D to this section (``Information for

Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under the Standard''); and

(ii) In addition, the employer must establish and implement those

elements of a written respiratory protection program necessary to ensure

that any employee using a respirator voluntarily is medically able to

use that respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and

maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to the user.

Exception: Employers are not required to include in a written

[[Page 422]]

respiratory protection program those employees whose only use of

respirators involves the voluntary use of filtering facepieces (dust

masks).

(3) The employer shall designate a program administrator who is

qualified by appropriate training or experience that is commensurate

with the complexity of the program to administer or oversee the

respiratory protection program and conduct the required evaluations of

program effectiveness.

(4) The employer shall provide respirators, training, and medical

evaluations at no cost to the employee.

(d) Selection of respirators. This paragraph requires the employer

to evaluate respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace, identify relevant

workplace and user factors, and base respirator selection on these

factors. The paragraph also specifies appropriately protective

respirators for use in IDLH atmospheres, and limits the selection and

use of air-purifying respirators.

(1) General requirements. (i) The employer shall select and provide

an appropriate respirator based on the respiratory hazard(s) to which

the worker is exposed and workplace and user factors that affect

respirator performance and reliability.

(ii) The employer shall select a NIOSH-certified respirator. The

respirator shall be used in compliance with the conditions of its

certification.

(iii) The employer shall identify and evaluate the respiratory

hazard(s) in the workplace; this evaluation shall include a reasonable

estimate of employee exposures to respiratory hazard(s) and an

identification of the contaminant's chemical state and physical form.

Where the employer cannot identify or reasonably estimate the employee

exposure, the employer shall consider the atmosphere to be IDLH.

(iv) The employer shall select respirators from a sufficient number

of respirator models and sizes so that the respirator is acceptable to,

and correctly fits, the user.

(2) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres. (i) The employer shall provide

the following respirators for employee use in IDLH atmospheres:

(A) A full facepiece pressure demand SCBA certified by NIOSH for a

minimum service life of thirty minutes, or

(B) A combination full facepiece pressure demand supplied-air

respirator (SAR) with auxiliary self-contained air supply.

(ii) Respirators provided only for escape from IDLH atmospheres

shall be NIOSH-certified for escape from the atmosphere in which they

will be used.

(iii) All oxygen-deficient atmospheres shall be considered IDLH.

Exception: If the employer demonstrates that, under all foreseeable

conditions, the oxygen concentration can be maintained within the ranges

specified in Table II of this section (i.e., for the altitudes set out

in the table), then any atmosphere-supplying respirator may be used.

(3) Respirators for atmospheres that are not IDLH. (i) The employer

shall provide a respirator that is adequate to protect the health of the

employee and ensure compliance with all other OSHA statutory and

regulatory requirements, under routine and reasonably foreseeable

emergency situations.

(A) Assigned Protection Factors (APFs). Employers must use the

assigned protection factors listed in Table 1 to select a respirator

that meets or exceeds the required level of employee protection. When

using a combination respirator (e.g., airline respirators with an air-

purifying filter), employers must ensure that the assigned protection

factor is appropriate to the mode of operation in which the respirator

is being used.

Table 1--Assigned Protection Factors \5\

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loose-

Type of respirator \1,\\2\ Quarter Half mask Full Helmet/hood fitting

mask facepiece facepiece

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Air-Purifying Respirator.................... 5 \3\ 10 50 ........... ...........

2. Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)..... ........... 50 1,000 \4\ 25/ 25

1,000

3. Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) or Airline

Respirator....................................

<bullet<ls-thn-eq> Demand mode............. ........... 10 50 ........... ...........

<bullet<ls-thn-eq> Continuous flow mode.... ........... 50 1,000 \4\ 25/ 25

1,000

<bullet<ls-thn-eq> Pressure-demand or other ........... 50 1,000 ........... ...........

positive-pressure mode....................

[[Page 423]]

4. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)...

<bullet<ls-thn-eq> Demand mode............. ........... 10 50 50 ...........

<bullet<ls-thn-eq> Pressure-demand or other ........... ........... 10,000 10,000 ...........

positive-pressure mode (e.g., open/closed

circuit)..................................

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Notes:

\1\ Employers may select respirators assigned for use in higher workplace concentrations of a hazardous

substance for use at lower concentrations of that substance, or when required respirator use is independent of

concentration.

\2\ The assigned protection factors in Table 1 are only effective when the employer implements a continuing,

effective respirator program as required by this section (29 CFR 1910.134), including training, fit testing,

maintenance, and use requirements.

\3\ This APF category includes filtering facepieces, and half masks with elastomeric facepieces.

\4\ The employer must have evidence provided by the respirator manufacturer that testing of these respirators

demonstrates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater to receive an APF of 1,000. This level

of performance can best be demonstrated by performing a WPF or SWPF study or equivalent testing. Absent such

testing, all other PAPRs and SARs with helmets/hoods are to be treated as loose-fitting facepiece respirators,

and receive an APF of 25.

\5\ These APFs do not apply to respirators used solely for escape. For escape respirators used in association

with specific substances covered by 29 CFR 1910 subpart Z, employers must refer to the appropriate substance-

specific standards in that subpart. Escape respirators for other IDLH atmospheres are specified by 29 CFR

1910.134 (d)(2)(ii).

(B) Maximum Use Concentration (MUC). (1) The employer must select a

respirator for employee use that maintains the employee's exposure to

the hazardous substance, when measured outside the respirator, at or

below the MUC.

(2) Employers must not apply MUCs to conditions that are immediately

dangerous to life or health (IDLH); instead, they must use respirators

listed for IDLH conditions in paragraph (d)(2) of this standard.

(3) When the calculated MUC exceeds the IDLH level for a hazardous

substance, or the performance limits of the cartridge or canister, then

employers must set the maximum MUC at that lower limit.

(ii) The respirator selected shall be appropriate for the chemical

state and physical form of the contaminant.

(iii) For protection against gases and vapors, the employer shall

provide:

(A) An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or

(B) An air-purifying respirator, provided that:

(1) The respirator is equipped with an end-of-service-life indicator

(ESLI) certified by NIOSH for the contaminant; or

(2) If there is no ESLI appropriate for conditions in the employer's

workplace, the employer implements a change schedule for canisters and

cartridges that is based on objective information or data that will

ensure that canisters and cartridges are changed before the end of their

service life. The employer shall describe in the respirator program the

information and data relied upon and the basis for the canister and

cartridge change schedule and the basis for reliance on the data.

(iv) For protection against particulates, the employer shall

provide:

(A) An atmosphere-supplying respirator; or

(B) An air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified by

NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11 as a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA)

filter, or an air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified

for particulates by NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84; or

median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD) of at least 2 micrometers, an air-

purifying respirator equipped with any filter certified for particulates

by NIOSH.

Table I--Assigned Protection Factors [Reserved]

Table II

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oxygen deficient Atmospheres

(% 02) for which the

Altitude (ft.) employer may rely on

atmosphere-supplying

respirators

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Less than 3,001........................... 16.0-19.5

3,001-4,000............................... 16.4-19.5

4,001-5,000............................... 17.1-19.5

5,001-6,000............................... 17.8-19.5

6,001-7,000............................... 18.5-19.5

7,001-8,000\1\............................ 19.3-19.5.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygen-enriched

breathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.

[[Page 424]]

(e) Medical evaluation. Using a respirator may place a physiological

burden on employees that varies with the type of respirator worn, the

job and workplace conditions in which the respirator is used, and the

medical status of the employee. Accordingly, this paragraph specifies

the minimum requirements for medical evaluation that employers must

implement to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator.

(1) General. The employer shall provide a medical evaluation to

determine the employee's ability to use a respirator, before the

employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator in the

workplace. The employer may discontinue an employee's medical

evaluations when the employee is no longer required to use a respirator.

(2) Medical evaluation procedures. (i) The employer shall identify a

physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) to perform

medical evaluations using a medical questionnaire or an initial medical

examination that obtains the same information as the medical

questionnaire.

(ii) The medical evaluation shall obtain the information requested

by the questionnaire in Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix C of this

section.

(3) Follow-up medical examination. (i) The employer shall ensure

that a follow-up medical examination is provided for an employee who

gives a positive response to any question among questions 1 through 8 in

Section 2, Part A of Appendix C or whose initial medical examination

demonstrates the need for a follow-up medical examination.

(ii) The follow-up medical examination shall include any medical

tests, consultations, or diagnostic procedures that the PLHCP deems

necessary to make a final determination.

(4) Administration of the medical questionnaire and examinations.

(i) The medical questionnaire and examinations shall be administered

confidentially during the employee's normal working hours or at a time

and place convenient to the employee. The medical questionnaire shall be

administered in a manner that ensures that the employee understands its

content.

(ii) The employer shall provide the employee with an opportunity to

discuss the questionnaire and examination results with the PLHCP.

(5) Supplemental information for the PLHCP. (i) The following

information must be provided to the PLHCP before the PLHCP makes a

recommendation concerning an employee's ability to use a respirator:

(A) The type and weight of the respirator to be used by the

employee;

(B) The duration and frequency of respirator use (including use for

rescue and escape);

(D) Additional protective clothing and equipment to be worn; and

(E) Temperature and humidity extremes that may be encountered.

(ii) Any supplemental information provided previously to the PLHCP

regarding an employee need not be provided for a subsequent medical

evaluation if the information and the PLHCP remain the same.

(iii) The employer shall provide the PLHCP with a copy of the

written respiratory protection program and a copy of this section.

Note to paragraph (e)(5)(iii):

When the employer replaces a PLHCP, the employer must ensure that

the new PLHCP obtains this information, either by providing the

documents directly to the PLHCP or having the documents transferred from

the former PLHCP to the new PLHCP. However, OSHA does not expect

employers to have employees medically reevaluated solely because a new

PLHCP has been selected.

(6) Medical determination. In determining the employee's ability to

use a respirator, the employer shall:

(i) Obtain a written recommendation regarding the employee's ability

to use the respirator from the PLHCP. The recommendation shall provide

only the following information:

(A) Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical

condition of the employee, or relating to the workplace conditions in

which the respirator will be used, including whether or not the employee

is medically able to use the respirator;

(B) The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations; and

[[Page 425]]

of the PLHCP's written recommendation.

(ii) If the respirator is a negative pressure respirator and the

PLHCP finds a medical condition that may place the employee's health at

increased risk if the respirator is used, the employer shall provide a

PAPR if the PLHCP's medical evaluation finds that the employee can use

such a respirator; if a subsequent medical evaluation finds that the

employee is medically able to use a negative pressure respirator, then

the employer is no longer required to provide a PAPR.

(7) Additional medical evaluations. At a minimum, the employer shall

provide additional medical evaluations that comply with the requirements

of this section if:

(i) An employee reports medical signs or symptoms that are related

to ability to use a respirator;

(ii) A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program administrator

informs the employer that an employee needs to be reevaluated;

(iii) Information from the respiratory protection program, including

observations made during fit testing and program evaluation, indicates a

need for employee reevaluation; or

(iv) A change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physical work

effort, protective clothing, temperature) that may result in a

substantial increase in the physiological burden placed on an employee.

(f) Fit testing. This paragraph requires that, before an employee

may be required to use any respirator with a negative or positive

pressure tight-fitting facepiece, the employee must be fit tested with

the same make, model, style, and size of respirator that will be used.

This paragraph specifies the kinds of fit tests allowed, the procedures

for conducting them, and how the results of the fit tests must be used.

(1) The employer shall ensure that employees using a tight-fitting

facepiece respirator pass an appropriate qualitative fit test (QLFT) or

quantitative fit test (QNFT) as stated in this paragraph.

(2) The employer shall ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting

facepiece respirator is fit tested prior to initial use of the

respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece (size, style,

model or make) is used, and at least annually thereafter.

(3) The employer shall conduct an additional fit test whenever the

employee reports, or the employer, PLHCP, supervisor, or program

administrator makes visual observations of, changes in the employee's

physical condition that could affect respirator fit. Such conditions

include, but are not limited to, facial scarring, dental changes,

cosmetic surgery, or an obvious change in body weight.

(4) If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, the employee subsequently

notifies the employer, program administrator, supervisor, or PLHCP that

the fit of the respirator is unacceptable, the employee shall be given a

reasonable opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece and to

be retested.

(5) The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-accepted QLFT

or QNFT protocol. The OSHA-accepted QLFT and QNFT protocols and

procedures are contained in Appendix A of this section.

(6) QLFT may only be used to fit test negative pressure air-

purifying respirators that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.

(7) If the fit factor, as determined through an OSHA-accepted QNFT

protocol, is equal to or greater than 100 for tight-fitting half

facepieces, or equal to or greater than 500 for tight-fitting full

facepieces, the QNFT has been passed with that respirator.

(8) Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators

and tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators shall be

accomplished by performing quantitative or qualitative fit testing in

the negative pressure mode, regardless of the mode of operation

(negative or positive pressure) that is used for respiratory protection.

(i) Qualitative fit testing of these respirators shall be

accomplished by temporarily converting the respirator user's actual

facepiece into a negative pressure respirator with appropriate filters,

or by using an identical negative pressure air-purifying respirator

[[Page 426]]

facepiece with the same sealing surfaces as a surrogate for the

atmosphere-supplying or powered air-purifying respirator facepiece.

(ii) Quantitative fit testing of these respirators shall be

accomplished by modifying the facepiece to allow sampling inside the

facepiece in the breathing zone of the user, midway between the nose and

mouth. This requirement shall be accomplished by installing a permanent

sampling probe onto a surrogate facepiece, or by using a sampling

adapter designed to temporarily provide a means of sampling air from

inside the facepiece.

(iii) Any modifications to the respirator facepiece for fit testing

shall be completely removed, and the facepiece restored to NIOSH-

approved configuration, before that facepiece can be used in the

workplace.

(g) Use of respirators. This paragraph requires employers to

establish and implement procedures for the proper use of respirators.

These requirements include prohibiting conditions that may result in

facepiece seal leakage, preventing employees from removing respirators

in hazardous environments, taking actions to ensure continued effective

respirator operation throughout the work shift, and establishing

procedures for the use of respirators in IDLH atmospheres or in interior

structural firefighting situations.

(1) Facepiece seal protection. (i) The employer shall not permit

respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who

have:

(A) Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the

facepiece and the face or that interferes with valve function; or

(B) Any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece seal or

valve function.

(ii) If an employee wears corrective glasses or goggles or other

personal protective equipment, the employer shall ensure that such

equipment is worn in a manner that does not interfere with the seal of

the facepiece to the face of the user.

(iii) For all tight-fitting respirators, the employer shall ensure

that employees perform a user seal check each time they put on the

respirator using the procedures in Appendix B-1 or procedures

recommended by the respirator manufacturer that the employer

demonstrates are as effective as those in Appendix B-1 of this section.

(2) Continuing respirator effectiveness. (i) Appropriate

surveillance shall be maintained of work area conditions and degree of

employee exposure or stress. When there is a change in work area

conditions or degree of employee exposure or stress that may affect

respirator effectiveness, the employer shall reevaluate the continued

effectiveness of the respirator.

(ii) The employer shall ensure that employees leave the respirator

use area:

(A) To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as necessary to

prevent eye or skin irritation associated with respirator use; or

(B) If they detect vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing

resistance, or leakage of the facepiece; or

elements.

(iii) If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in

breathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece, the employer must

replace or repair the respirator before allowing the employee to return

to the work area.

(3) Procedures for IDLH atmospheres. For all IDLH atmospheres, the

employer shall ensure that:

(i) One employee or, when needed, more than one employee is located

outside the IDLH atmosphere;

(ii) Visual, voice, or signal line communication is maintained

between the employee(s) in the IDLH atmosphere and the employee(s)

located outside the IDLH atmosphere;

(iii) The employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere are

trained and equipped to provide effective emergency rescue;

(iv) The employer or designee is notified before the employee(s)

located outside the IDLH atmosphere enter the IDLH atmosphere to provide

emergency rescue;

(v) The employer or designee authorized to do so by the employer,

once notified, provides necessary assistance appropriate to the

situation;

(vi) Employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmospheres are equipped

with:

[[Page 427]]

(A) Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs, or a pressure

demand or other positive pressure supplied-air respirator with auxiliary

SCBA; and either

(B) Appropriate retrieval equipment for removing the employee(s) who

enter(s) these hazardous atmospheres where retrieval equipment would

contribute to the rescue of the employee(s) and would not increase the

overall risk resulting from entry; or

required under paragraph (g)(3)(vi)(B).

(4) Procedures for interior structural firefighting. In addition to

the requirements set forth under paragraph (g)(3), in interior

structural fires, the employer shall ensure that:

(i) At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain in

visual or voice contact with one another at all times;

(ii) At least two employees are located outside the IDLH atmosphere;

and

(iii) All employees engaged in interior structural firefighting use

SCBAs.

Note 1 to paragraph (g): One of the two individuals located outside

the IDLH atmosphere may be assigned to an additional role, such as

incident commander in charge of the emergency or safety officer, so long

as this individual is able to perform assistance or rescue activities

without jeopardizing the safety or health of any firefighter working at

the incident.

Note 2 to paragraph (g): Nothing in this section is meant to

preclude firefighters from performing emergency rescue activities before

an entire team has assembled.

(h) Maintenance and care of respirators. This paragraph requires the

employer to provide for the cleaning and disinfecting, storage,

inspection, and repair of respirators used by employees.

(1) Cleaning and disinfecting. The employer shall provide each

respirator user with a respirator that is clean, sanitary, and in good

working order. The employer shall ensure that respirators are cleaned

and disinfected using the procedures in Appendix B-2 of this section, or

procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer, provided that

such procedures are of equivalent effectiveness. The respirators shall

be cleaned and disinfected at the following intervals:

(i) Respirators issued for the exclusive use of an employee shall be

cleaned and disinfected as often as necessary to be maintained in a

sanitary condition;

(ii) Respirators issued to more than one employee shall be cleaned

and disinfected before being worn by different individuals;

(iii) Respirators maintained for emergency use shall be cleaned and

disinfected after each use; and

(iv) Respirators used in fit testing and training shall be cleaned

and disinfected after each use.

(2) Storage. The employer shall ensure that respirators are stored

as follows:

(i) All respirators shall be stored to protect them from damage,

contamination, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture,

and damaging chemicals, and they shall be packed or stored to prevent

deformation of the facepiece and exhalation valve.

(ii) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this

section, emergency respirators shall be:

(A) Kept accessible to the work area;

(B) Stored in compartments or in covers that are clearly marked as

containing emergency respirators; and

instructions.

(3) Inspection. (i) The employer shall ensure that respirators are

inspected as follows:

(A) All respirators used in routine situations shall be inspected

before each use and during cleaning;

(B) All respirators maintained for use in emergency situations shall

be inspected at least monthly and in accordance with the manufacturer's

recommendations, and shall be checked for proper function before and

after each use; and

being carried into the workplace for use.

(ii) The employer shall ensure that respirator inspections include

the following:

(A) A check of respirator function, tightness of connections, and

the condition of the various parts including, but not limited to, the

facepiece, head

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straps, valves, connecting tube, and cartridges, canisters or filters;

and

(B) A check of elastomeric parts for pliability and signs of

deterioration.

(iii) In addition to the requirements of paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and

(ii) of this section, self-contained breathing apparatus shall be

inspected monthly. Air and oxygen cylinders shall be maintained in a

fully charged state and shall be recharged when the pressure falls to

90% of the manufacturer's recommended pressure level. The employer shall

determine that the regulator and warning devices function properly.

(iv) For respirators maintained for emergency use, the employer

shall:

(A) Certify the respirator by documenting the date the inspection

was performed, the name (or signature) of the person who made the

inspection, the findings, required remedial action, and a serial number

or other means of identifying the inspected respirator; and

(B) Provide this information on a tag or label that is attached to

the storage compartment for the respirator, is kept with the respirator,

or is included in inspection reports stored as paper or electronic

files. This information shall be maintained until replaced following a

subsequent certification.

(4) Repairs. The employer shall ensure that respirators that fail an

inspection or are otherwise found to be defective are removed from

service, and are discarded or repaired or adjusted in accordance with

the following procedures:

(i) Repairs or adjustments to respirators are to be made only by

persons appropriately trained to perform such operations and shall use

only the respirator manufacturer's NIOSH-approved parts designed for the

respirator;

(ii) Repairs shall be made according to the manufacturer's

recommendations and specifications for the type and extent of repairs to

be performed; and

(iii) Reducing and admission valves, regulators, and alarms shall be

adjusted or repaired only by the manufacturer or a technician trained by

the manufacturer.

(i) Breathing air quality and use. This paragraph requires the

employer to provide employees using atmosphere-supplying respirators

(supplied-air and SCBA) with breathing gases of high purity.

(1) The employer shall ensure that compressed air, compressed

oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen used for respiration accords with

the following specifications:

(i) Compressed and liquid oxygen shall meet the United States

Pharmacopoeia requirements for medical or breathing oxygen; and

(ii) Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements

for Grade D breathing air described in ANSI/Compressed Gas Association

Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989, to include:

(A) Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%;

(B) Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic meter

of air or less;

(D) Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 ppm or less; and

(E) Lack of noticeable odor.

(2) The employer shall ensure that compressed oxygen is not used in

atmosphere-supplying respirators that have previously used compressed

air.

(3) The employer shall ensure that oxygen concentrations greater

than 23.5% are used only in equipment designed for oxygen service or

distribution.

(4) The employer shall ensure that cylinders used to supply

breathing air to respirators meet the following requirements:

(i) Cylinders are tested and maintained as prescribed in the

Shipping Container Specification Regulations of the Department of

Transportation (49 CFR part 173 and part 178);

(ii) Cylinders of purchased breathing air have a certificate of

analysis from the supplier that the breathing air meets the requirements

for Grade D breathing air; and

(iii) The moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a dew

point of -50 [deg]F (-45.6 [deg]C) at 1 atmosphere pressure.

[[Page 429]]

(5) The employer shall ensure that compressors used to supply

breathing air to respirators are constructed and situated so as to:

(i) Prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supply system;

(ii) Minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere

pressure is 10 degrees F (5.56 [deg]C) below the ambient temperature;

(iii) Have suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters

to further ensure breathing air quality. Sorbent beds and filters shall

be maintained and replaced or refurbished periodically following the

manufacturer's instructions.

(iv) Have a tag containing the most recent change date and the

signature of the person authorized by the employer to perform the

change. The tag shall be maintained at the compressor.

(6) For compressors that are not oil-lubricated, the employer shall

ensure that carbon monoxide levels in the breathing air do not exceed 10

ppm.

(7) For oil-lubricated compressors, the employer shall use a high-

temperature or carbon monoxide alarm, or both, to monitor carbon

monoxide levels. If only high-temperature alarms are used, the air

supply shall be monitored at intervals sufficient to prevent carbon

monoxide in the breathing air from exceeding 10 ppm.

(8) The employer shall ensure that breathing air couplings are

incompatible with outlets for nonrespirable worksite air or other gas

systems. No asphyxiating substance shall be introduced into breathing

air lines.

(9) The employer shall use breathing gas containers marked in

accordance with the NIOSH respirator certification standard, 42 CFR part

84.

(j) Identification of filters, cartridges, and canisters. The

employer shall ensure that all filters, cartridges and canisters used in

the workplace are labeled and color coded with the NIOSH approval label

and that the label is not removed and remains legible.

(k) Training and information. This paragraph requires the employer

to provide effective training to employees who are required to use

respirators. The training must be comprehensive, understandable, and

recur annually, and more often if necessary. This paragraph also

requires the employer to provide the basic information on respirators in

Appendix D of this section to employees who wear respirators when not

required by this section or by the employer to do so.

(1) The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate

knowledge of at least the following:

(i) Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or

maintenance can compromise the protective effect of the respirator;

(ii) What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are;

(iii) How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations,

including situations in which the respirator malfunctions;

(iv) How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals of

the respirator;

(v) What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the

respirator;

(vi) How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or

prevent the effective use of respirators; and

(vii) The general requirements of this section.

(2) The training shall be conducted in a manner that is

understandable to the employee.

(3) The employer shall provide the training prior to requiring the

employee to use a respirator in the workplace.

(4) An employer who is able to demonstrate that a new employee has

received training within the last 12 months that addresses the elements

specified in paragraph (k)(1)(i) through (vii) is not required to repeat

such training provided that, as required by paragraph (k)(1), the

employee can demonstrate knowledge of those element(s). Previous

training not repeated initially by the employer must be provided no

later than 12 months from the date of the previous training.

(5) Retraining shall be administered annually, and when the

following situations occur:

(i) Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render

previous training obsolete;

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(ii) Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the

respirator indicate that the employee has not retained the requisite

understanding or skill; or

(iii) Any other situation arises in which retraining appears

necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

(6) The basic advisory information on respirators, as presented in

Appendix D of this section, shall be provided by the employer in any

written or oral format, to employees who wear respirators when such use

is not required by this section or by the employer.

(l) Program evaluation. This section requires the employer to

conduct evaluations of the workplace to ensure that the written

respiratory protection program is being properly implemented, and to

consult employees to ensure that they are using the respirators

properly.

(1) The employer shall conduct evaluations of the workplace as

necessary to ensure that the provisions of the current written program

are being effectively implemented and that it continues to be effective.

(2) The employer shall regularly consult employees required to use

respirators to assess the employees' views on program effectiveness and

to identify any problems. Any problems that are identified during this

assessment shall be corrected. Factors to be assessed include, but are

not limited to:

(i) Respirator fit (including the ability to use the respirator

without interfering with effective workplace performance);

(ii) Appropriate respirator selection for the hazards to which the

employee is exposed;

(iii) Proper respirator use under the workplace conditions the

employee encounters; and

(iv) Proper respirator maintenance.

(m) Recordkeeping. This section requires the employer to establish

and retain written information regarding medical evaluations, fit

testing, and the respirator program. This information will facilitate

employee involvement in the respirator program, assist the employer in

auditing the adequacy of the program, and provide a record for

compliance determinations by OSHA.

(1) Medical evaluation. Records of medical evaluations required by

this section must be retained and made available in accordance with 29

CFR 1910.1020.

(2) Fit testing. (i) The employer shall establish a record of the

qualitative and quantitative fit tests administered to an employee

including:

(A) The name or identification of the employee tested;

(B) Type of fit test performed;

(D) Date of test; and

(E) The pass/fail results for QLFTs or the fit factor and strip

chart recording or other recording of the test results for QNFTs.

(ii) Fit test records shall be retained for respirator users until

the next fit test is administered.

(3) A written copy of the current respirator program shall be

retained by the employer.

(4) Written materials required to be retained under this paragraph

shall be made available upon request to affected employees and to the

Assistant Secretary or designee for examination and copying.

(n) Effective date. Paragraphs (d)(3)(i)(A) and (d)(3)(i)(B) of this

section become effective November 22, 2006.

(o) Appendices. (1) Compliance with Appendix A, Appendix B-1,

Appendix B-2, and Appendix C of this section is mandatory.

(2) Appendix D of this section is non-mandatory and is not intended

to create any additional obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract

from any existing obligations.

Appendix A to Sec. 1910.134--Fit Testing Procedures (Mandatory)

Part I. OSHA-Accepted Fit Test Protocols

A. Fit Testing Procedures--General Requirements

The employer shall conduct fit testing using the following

procedures. The requirements in this appendix apply to all OSHA-accepted

fit test methods, both QLFT and QNFT.

1. The test subject shall be allowed to pick the most acceptable

respirator from a sufficient number of respirator models and sizes

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so that the respirator is acceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.

2. Prior to the selection process, the test subject shall be shown

how to put on a respirator, how it should be positioned on the face, how

to set strap tension and how to determine an acceptable fit. A mirror

shall be available to assist the subject in evaluating the fit and

positioning of the respirator. This instruction may not constitute the

subject's formal training on respirator use, because it is only a

review.

3. The test subject shall be informed that he/she is being asked to

select the respirator that provides the most acceptable fit. Each

respirator represents a different size and shape, and if fitted and used

properly, will provide adequate protection.

4. The test subject shall be instructed to hold each chosen

facepiece up to the face and eliminate those that obviously do not give

an acceptable fit.

5. The more acceptable facepieces are noted in case the one selected

proves unacceptable; the most comfortable mask is donned and worn at

least five minutes to assess comfort. Assistance in assessing comfort

can be given by discussing the points in the following item A.6. If the

test subject is not familiar with using a particular respirator, the

test subject shall be directed to don the mask several times and to

adjust the straps each time to become adept at setting proper tension on

the straps.

6. Assessment of comfort shall include a review of the following

points with the test subject and allowing the test subject adequate time

to determine the comfort of the respirator:

(a) Position of the mask on the nose

(b) Room for eye protection

(d) Position of mask on face and cheeks

7. The following criteria shall be used to help determine the

adequacy of the respirator fit:

(a) Chin properly placed;

(b) Adequate strap tension, not overly tightened;

(d) Respirator of proper size to span distance from nose to chin;

(e) Tendency of respirator to slip;

(f) Self-observation in mirror to evaluate fit and respirator

position.

8. The test subject shall conduct a user seal check, either the

negative and positive pressure seal checks described in Appendix B-1 of

this section or those recommended by the respirator manufacturer which

provide equivalent protection to the procedures in Appendix B-1. Before

conducting the negative and positive pressure checks, the subject shall

be told to seat the mask on the face by moving the head from side-to-

side and up and down slowly while taking in a few slow deep breaths.

Another facepiece shall be selected and retested if the test subject

fails the user seal check tests.

9. The test shall not be conducted if there is any hair growth

between the skin and the facepiece sealing surface, such as stubble

beard growth, beard, mustache or sideburns which cross the respirator

sealing surface. Any type of apparel which interferes with a

satisfactory fit shall be altered or removed.

10. If a test subject exhibits difficulty in breathing during the

tests, she or he shall be referred to a physician or other licensed

health care professional, as appropriate, to determine whether the test

subject can wear a respirator while performing her or his duties.

11. If the employee finds the fit of the respirator unacceptable,

the test subject shall be given the opportunity to select a different

respirator and to be retested.

12. Exercise regimen. Prior to the commencement of the fit test, the

test subject shall be given a description of the fit test and the test

subject's responsibilities during the test procedure. The description of

the process shall include a description of the test exercises that the

subject will be performing. The respirator to be tested shall be worn

for at least 5 minutes before the start of the fit test.

13. The fit test shall be performed while the test subject is

wearing any applicable safety equipment that may be worn during actual

respirator use which could interfere with respirator fit.

14. Test Exercises. (a) Employers must perform the following test

exercises for all fit testing methods prescribed in this appendix,

except for the CNP quantitative fit testing protocol and the CNP REDON

quantitative fit testing protocol. For these two protocols, employers

must ensure that the test subjects (i.e., employees) perform the

exercise procedure specified in Part I.C.4(b) of this appendix for the

CNP quantitative fit testing protocol, or the exercise procedure

described in Part I.C.5(b) of this appendix for the CNP REDON

quantitative fit-testing protocol. For the remaining fit testing

methods, employers must ensure that employees perform the test exercises

in the appropriate test environment in the following manner:

(1) Normal breathing. In a normal standing position, without

talking, the subject shall breathe normally.

(2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing position, the subject shall

breathe slowly and deeply, taking caution so as not to hyperventilate.

(3) Turning head side to side. Standing in place, the subject shall

slowly turn his/her head from side to side between the extreme positions

on each side. The head shall be held at each extreme momentarily so the

subject can inhale at each side.

(4) Moving head up and down. Standing in place, the subject shall

slowly move his/her

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head up and down. The subject shall be instructed to inhale in the up

position (i.e., when looking toward the ceiling).

(5) Talking. The subject shall talk out loud slowly and loud enough

so as to be heard clearly by the test conductor. The subject can read

from a prepared text such as the Rainbow Passage, count backward from

100, or recite a memorized poem or song.

Rainbow Passage

When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act like a

prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into

many beautiful colors. These take the shape of a long round arch, with

its path high above, and its two ends apparently beyond the horizon.

There is, according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at one end. People

look, but no one ever finds it. When a man looks for something beyond

reach, his friends say he is looking for the pot of gold at the end of

the rainbow.

(6) Grimace. The test subject shall grimace by smiling or frowning.

(This applies only to QNFT testing; it is not performed for QLFT)

(7) Bending over. The test subject shall bend at the waist as if he/

she were to touch his/her toes. Jogging in place shall be substituted

for this exercise in those test environments such as shroud type QNFT or

QLFT units that do not permit bending over at the waist.

(8) Normal breathing. Same as exercise (1).

(b) Each test exercise shall be performed for one minute except for

the grimace exercise which shall be performed for 15 seconds. The test

subject shall be questioned by the test conductor regarding the comfort

of the respirator upon completion of the protocol. If it has become

unacceptable, another model of respirator shall be tried. The respirator

shall not be adjusted once the fit test exercises begin. Any adjustment

voids the test, and the fit test must be repeated.

B. Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT) Protocols

1. General

(a) The employer shall ensure that persons administering QLFT are

able to prepare test solutions, calibrate equipment and perform tests

properly, recognize invalid tests, and ensure that test equipment is in

proper working order.

(b) The employer shall ensure that QLFT equipment is kept clean and

well maintained so as to operate within the parameters for which it was

designed.

2. Isoamyl Acetate Protocol

Note: This protocol is not appropriate to use for the fit testing of

particulate respirators. If used to fit test particulate respirators,

the respirator must be equipped with an organic vapor filter.

(a) Odor Threshold Screening

Odor threshold screening, performed without wearing a respirator, is

intended to determine if the individual tested can detect the odor of

isoamyl acetate at low levels.

(1) Three 1 liter glass jars with metal lids are required.

(2) Odor-free water (e.g., distilled or spring water) at

approximately 25 [deg]C (77 [deg]F) shall be used for the solutions.

(3) The isoamyl acetate (IAA) (also known at isopentyl acetate)

stock solution is prepared by adding 1 ml of pure IAA to 800 ml of odor-

free water in a 1 liter jar, closing the lid and shaking for 30 seconds.

A new solution shall be prepared at least weekly.

(4) The screening test shall be conducted in a room separate from

the room used for actual fit testing. The two rooms shall be well-

ventilated to prevent the odor of IAA from becoming evident in the

general room air where testing takes place.

(5) The odor test solution is prepared in a second jar by placing

0.4 ml of the stock solution into 500 ml of odor-free water using a

clean dropper or pipette. The solution shall be shaken for 30 seconds

and allowed to stand for two to three minutes so that the IAA

concentration above the liquid may reach equilibrium. This solution

shall be used for only one day.

(6) A test blank shall be prepared in a third jar by adding 500 cc

of odor-free water.

(7) The odor test and test blank jar lids shall be labeled (e.g., 1

and 2) for jar identification. Labels shall be placed on the lids so

that they can be peeled off periodically and switched to maintain the

integrity of the test.

(8) The following instruction shall be typed on a card and placed on

the table in front of the two test jars (i.e., 1 and 2): ``The purpose

of this test is to determine if you can smell banana oil at a low

concentration. The two bottles in front of you contain water. One of

these bottles also contains a small amount of banana oil. Be sure the

covers are on tight, then shake each bottle for two seconds. Unscrew the

lid of each bottle, one at a time, and sniff at the mouth of the bottle.

Indicate to the test conductor which bottle contains banana oil.''

(9) The mixtures used in the IAA odor detection test shall be

prepared in an area separate from where the test is performed, in order

to prevent olfactory fatigue in the subject.

(10) If the test subject is unable to correctly identify the jar

containing the odor test solution, the IAA qualitative fit test shall

not be performed.

(11) If the test subject correctly identifies the jar containing the

odor test solution, the test subject may proceed to respirator selection

and fit testing.

(b) Isoamyl Acetate Fit Test

[[Page 433]]

(1) The fit test chamber shall be a clear 55-gallon drum liner

suspended inverted over a 2-foot diameter frame so that the top of the

chamber is about 6 inches above the test subject's head. If no drum

liner is available, a similar chamber shall be constructed using plastic

sheeting. The inside top center of the chamber shall have a small hook

attached.

(2) Each respirator used for the fitting and fit testing shall be

equipped with organic vapor cartridges or offer protection against

organic vapors.

(3) After selecting, donning, and properly adjusting a respirator,

the test subject shall wear it to the fit testing room. This room shall

be separate from the room used for odor threshold screening and

respirator selection, and shall be well-ventilated, as by an exhaust fan

or lab hood, to prevent general room contamination.

(4) A copy of the test exercises and any prepared text from which

the subject is to read shall be taped to the inside of the test chamber.

(5) Upon entering the test chamber, the test subject shall be given

a 6-inch by 5-inch piece of paper towel, or other porous, absorbent,

single-ply material, folded in half and wetted with 0.75 ml of pure IAA.

The test subject shall hang the wet towel on the hook at the top of the

chamber. An IAA test swab or ampule may be substituted for the IAA

wetted paper towel provided it has been demonstrated that the

alternative IAA source will generate an IAA test atmosphere with a

concentration equivalent to that generated by the paper towel method.

(6) Allow two minutes for the IAA test concentration to stabilize

before starting the fit test exercises. This would be an appropriate

time to talk with the test subject; to explain the fit test, the

importance of his/her cooperation, and the purpose for the test

exercises; or to demonstrate some of the exercises.

(7) If at any time during the test, the subject detects the banana-

like odor of IAA, the test is failed. The subject shall quickly exit

from the test chamber and leave the test area to avoid olfactory

fatigue.

(8) If the test is failed, the subject shall return to the selection

room and remove the respirator. The test subject shall repeat the odor

sensitivity test, select and put on another respirator, return to the

test area and again begin the fit test procedure described in (b) (1)

through (7) above. The process continues until a respirator that fits

well has been found. Should the odor sensitivity test be failed, the

subject shall wait at least 5 minutes before retesting. Odor sensitivity

will usually have returned by this time.

(9) If the subject passes the test, the efficiency of the test

procedure shall be demonstrated by having the subject break the

respirator face seal and take a breath before exiting the chamber.

(10) When the test subject leaves the chamber, the subject shall

remove the saturated towel and return it to the person conducting the

test, so that there is no significant IAA concentration buildup in the

chamber during subsequent tests. The used towels shall be kept in a

self-sealing plastic bag to keep the test area from being contaminated.

3. Saccharin Solution Aerosol Protocol

The entire screening and testing procedure shall be explained to the

test subject prior to the conduct of the screening test.

(a) Taste threshold screening. The saccharin taste threshold

screening, performed without wearing a respirator, is intended to

determine whether the individual being tested can detect the taste of

saccharin.

(1) During threshold screening as well as during fit testing,

subjects shall wear an enclosure about the head and shoulders that is

approximately 12 inches in diameter by 14 inches tall with at least the

front portion clear and that allows free movements of the head when a

respirator is worn. An enclosure substantially similar to the 3M hood

assembly, parts <greek-i> FT 14 and <greek-i> FT 15 combined, is

adequate.

(2) The test enclosure shall have a \3/4\-inch (1.9 cm) hole in

front of the test subject's nose and mouth area to accommodate the

nebulizer nozzle.

(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure. Throughout the

threshold screening test, the test subject shall breathe through his/her

slightly open mouth with tongue extended. The subject is instructed to

report when he/she detects a sweet taste.

(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or

equivalent, the test conductor shall spray the threshold check solution

into the enclosure. The nozzle is directed away from the nose and mouth

of the person. This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it

from the fit test solution nebulizer.

(5) The threshold check solution is prepared by dissolving 0.83 gram

of sodium saccharin USP in 100 ml of warm water. It can be prepared by

putting 1 ml of the fit test solution (see (b)(5) below) in 100 ml of

distilled water.

(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb is firmly squeezed so

that it collapses completely, then released and allowed to fully expand.

(7) Ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and then the test subject is

asked whether the saccharin can be tasted. If the test subject reports

tasting the sweet taste during the ten squeezes, the screening test is

completed. The taste threshold is noted as ten regardless of the number

of squeezes actually completed.

(8) If the first response is negative, ten more squeezes are

repeated rapidly and the

[[Page 434]]

test subject is again asked whether the saccharin is tasted. If the test

subject reports tasting the sweet taste during the second ten squeezes,

the screening test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as twenty

regardless of the number of squeezes actually completed.

(9) If the second response is negative, ten more squeezes are

repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the

saccharin is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the sweet taste

during the third set of ten squeezes, the screening test is completed.

The taste threshold is noted as thirty regardless of the number of

squeezes actually completed.

(10) The test conductor will take note of the number of squeezes

required to solicit a taste response.

(11) If the saccharin is not tasted after 30 squeezes (step 10), the

test subject is unable to taste saccharin and may not perform the

saccharin fit test.

Note to paragraph 3(a): If the test subject eats or drinks something

sweet before the screening test, he/she may be unable to taste the weak

saccharin solution.

(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test subject shall be

asked to take note of the taste for reference in the fit test.

(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that approximately 1 ml of

liquid is used at a time in the nebulizer body.

(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed in water, shaken dry,

and refilled at least each morning and afternoon or at least every four

hours.

(b) Saccharin solution aerosol fit test procedure.

(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (except plain water), smoke,

or chew gum for 15 minutes before the test.

(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure described in 3. (a) above.

(3) The test subject shall don the enclosure while wearing the

respirator selected in section I. A. of this appendix. The respirator

shall be properly adjusted and equipped with a particulate filter(s).

(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or

equivalent is used to spray the fit test solution into the enclosure.

This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the

screening test solution nebulizer.

(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 83 grams of sodium

saccharin to 100 ml of warm water.

(6) As before, the test subject shall breathe through the slightly

open mouth with tongue extended, and report if he/she tastes the sweet

taste of saccharin.

(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in the front of the

enclosure and an initial concentration of saccharin fit test solution is

sprayed into the enclosure using the same number of squeezes (either 10,

20 or 30 squeezes) based on the number of squeezes required to elicit a

taste response as noted during the screening test. A minimum of 10

squeezes is required.

(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subject shall be

instructed to perform the exercises in section I. A. 14. of this

appendix.

(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentration shall be replenished

using one half the original number of squeezes used initially (e.g., 5,

10 or 15).

(10) The test subject shall indicate to the test conductor if at any

time during the fit test the taste of saccharin is detected. If the test

subject does not report tasting the saccharin, the test is passed.

(11) If the taste of saccharin is detected, the fit is deemed

unsatisfactory and the test is failed. A different respirator shall be

tried and the entire test procedure is repeated (taste threshold

screening and fit testing).

(12) Since the nebulizer has a tendency to clog during use, the test

operator must make periodic checks of the nebulizer to ensure that it is

not clogged. If clogging is found at the end of the test session, the

test is invalid.

4. Bitrex\TM\ (Denatonium Benzoate) Solution Aerosol Qualitative Fit

Test Protocol

The Bitrex\TM\ (Denatonium benzoate) solution aerosol QLFT protocol

uses the published saccharin test protocol because that protocol is

widely accepted. Bitrex is routinely used as a taste aversion agent in

household liquids which children should not be drinking and is endorsed

by the American Medical Association, the National Safety Council, and

the American Association of Poison Control Centers. The entire screening

and testing procedure shall be explained to the test subject prior to

the conduct of the screening test.

(a) Taste Threshold Screening.

The Bitrex taste threshold screening, performed without wearing a

respirator, is intended to determine whether the individual being tested

can detect the taste of Bitrex.

(1) During threshold screening as well as during fit testing,

subjects shall wear an enclosure about the head and shoulders that is

approximately 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter by 14 inches (35.6 cm)

tall. The front portion of the enclosure shall be clear from the

respirator and allow free movement of the head when a respirator is

worn. An enclosure substantially similar to the 3M hood assembly, parts

<greek-i> FT 14 and <greek-i> FT 15 combined, is adequate.

(2) The test enclosure shall have a \3/4\ inch (1.9 cm) hole in

front of the test subject's nose and mouth area to accommodate the

nebulizer nozzle.

(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure. Throughout the

threshold screening test, the test subject shall breathe through

[[Page 435]]

his or her slightly open mouth with tongue extended. The subject is

instructed to report when he/she detects a bitter taste.

(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or

equivalent, the test conductor shall spray the Threshold Check Solution

into the enclosure. This Nebulizer shall be clearly marked to

distinguish it from the fit test solution nebulizer.

(5) The Threshold Check Solution is prepared by adding 13.5

milligrams of Bitrex to 100 ml of 5% salt (NaCl) solution in distilled

water.

(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb is firmly squeezed so

that the bulb collapses completely, and is then released and allowed to

fully expand.

(7) An initial ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and then the test

subject is asked whether the Bitrex can be tasted. If the test subject

reports tasting the bitter taste during the ten squeezes, the screening

test is completed. The taste threshold is noted as ten regardless of the

number of squeezes actually completed.

(8) If the first response is negative, ten more squeezes are

repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the Bitrex

is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the bitter taste during

the second ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The taste

threshold is noted as twenty regardless of the number of squeezes

actually completed.

(9) If the second response is negative, ten more squeezes are

repeated rapidly and the test subject is again asked whether the Bitrex

is tasted. If the test subject reports tasting the bitter taste during

the third set of ten squeezes, the screening test is completed. The

taste threshold is noted as thirty regardless of the number of squeezes

actually completed.

(10) The test conductor will take note of the number of squeezes

required to solicit a taste response.

(11) If the Bitrex is not tasted after 30 squeezes (step 10), the

test subject is unable to taste Bitrex and may not perform the Bitrex

fit test.

(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test subject shall be

asked to take note of the taste for reference in the fit test.

(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that approximately 1 ml of

liquid is used at a time in the nebulizer body.

(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed in water, shaken to

dry, and refilled at least each morning and afternoon or at least every

four hours.

(b) Bitrex Solution Aerosol Fit Test Procedure.

(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (except plain water), smoke,

or chew gum for 15 minutes before the test.

(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure as that described in 4. (a)

above.

(3) The test subject shall don the enclosure while wearing the

respirator selected according to section I. A. of this appendix. The

respirator shall be properly adjusted and equipped with any type

particulate filter(s).

(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Medication Nebulizer or

equivalent is used to spray the fit test solution into the enclosure.

This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish it from the

screening test solution nebulizer.

(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 337.5 mg of Bitrex

to 200 ml of a 5% salt (NaCl) solution in warm water.

(6) As before, the test subject shall breathe through his or her

slightly open mouth with tongue extended, and be instructed to report if

he/she tastes the bitter taste of Bitrex.

(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in the front of the

enclosure and an initial concentration of the fit test solution is

sprayed into the enclosure using the same number of squeezes (either 10,

20 or 30 squeezes) based on the number of squeezes required to elicit a

taste response as noted during the screening test.

(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subject shall be

instructed to perform the exercises in section I. A. 14. of this

appendix.

(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentration shall be replenished

using one half the number of squeezes used initially (e.g., 5, 10 or

15).

(10) The test subject shall indicate to the test conductor if at any

time during the fit test the taste of Bitrex is detected. If the test

subject does not report tasting the Bitrex, the test is passed.

(11) If the taste of Bitrex is detected, the fit is deemed

unsatisfactory and the test is failed. A different respirator shall be

tried and the entire test procedure is repeated (taste threshold

screening and fit testing).

5. Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride) Protocol

This qualitative fit test uses a person's response to the irritating

chemicals released in the ``smoke'' produced by a stannic chloride

ventilation smoke tube to detect leakage into the respirator.

(a) General Requirements and Precautions

(1) The respirator to be tested shall be equipped with high

efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or P100 series filter(s).

(2) Only stannic chloride smoke tubes shall be used for this

protocol.

(3) No form of test enclosure or hood for the test subject shall be

used.

(4) The smoke can be irritating to the eyes, lungs, and nasal

passages. The test conductor shall take precautions to minimize the test

subject's exposure to irritant smoke. Sensitivity varies, and certain

individuals may respond to a greater degree to irritant smoke. Care

shall be taken when performing

[[Page 436]]

the sensitivity screening checks that determine whether the test subject

can detect irritant smoke to use only the minimum amount of smoke

necessary to elicit a response from the test subject.

(5) The fit test shall be performed in an area with adequate

ventilation to prevent exposure of the person conducting the fit test or

the build-up of irritant smoke in the general atmosphere.

(b) Sensitivity Screening Check

The person to be tested must demonstrate his or her ability to

detect a weak concentration of the irritant smoke.

(1) The test operator shall break both ends of a ventilation smoke

tube containing stannic chloride, and attach one end of the smoke tube

to a low flow air pump set to deliver 200 milliliters per minute, or an

aspirator squeeze bulb. The test operator shall cover the other end of

the smoke tube with a short piece of tubing to prevent potential injury

from the jagged end of the smoke tube.

(2) The test operator shall advise the test subject that the smoke

can be irritating to the eyes, lungs, and nasal passages and instruct

the subject to keep his/her eyes closed while the test is performed.

(3) The test subject shall be allowed to smell a weak concentration

of the irritant smoke before the respirator is donned to become familiar

with its irritating properties and to determine if he/she can detect the

irritating properties of the smoke. The test operator shall carefully

direct a small amount of the irritant smoke in the test subject's

direction to determine that he/she can detect it.

(1) The person being fit tested shall don the respirator without

assistance, and perform the required user seal check(s).

(2) The test subject shall be instructed to keep his/her eyes

closed.

(3) The test operator shall direct the stream of irritant smoke from

the smoke tube toward the faceseal area of the test subject, using the

low flow pump or the squeeze bulb. The test operator shall begin at

least 12 inches from the facepiece and move the smoke stream around the

whole perimeter of the mask. The operator shall gradually make two more

passes around the perimeter of the mask, moving to within six inches of

the respirator.

(4) If the person being tested has not had an involuntary response

and/or detected the irritant smoke, proceed with the test exercises.

(5) The exercises identified in section I.A. 14. of this appendix

shall be performed by the test subject while the respirator seal is

being continually challenged by the smoke, directed around the perimeter

of the respirator at a distance of six inches.

(6) If the person being fit tested reports detecting the irritant

smoke at any time, the test is failed. The person being retested must

repeat the entire sensitivity check and fit test procedure.

(7) Each test subject passing the irritant smoke test without

evidence of a response (involuntary cough, irritation) shall be given a

second sensitivity screening check, with the smoke from the same smoke

tube used during the fit test, once the respirator has been removed, to

determine whether he/she still reacts to the smoke. Failure to evoke a

response shall void the fit test.

(8) If a response is produced during this second sensitivity check,

then the fit test is passed.

C. Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT) Protocols

The following quantitative fit testing procedures have been

demonstrated to be acceptable: Quantitative fit testing using a non-

hazardous test aerosol (such as corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400 [PEG

400], di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate [DEHS], or sodium chloride) generated in

a test chamber, and employing instrumentation to quantify the fit of the

respirator; Quantitative fit testing using ambient aerosol as the test

agent and appropriate instrumentation (condensation nuclei counter) to

quantify the respirator fit; Quantitative fit testing using controlled

negative pressure and appropriate instrumentation to measure the

volumetric leak rate of a facepiece to quantify the respirator fit.

1. General

(a) The employer shall ensure that persons administering QNFT are

able to calibrate equipment and perform tests properly, recognize

invalid tests, calculate fit factors properly and ensure that test

equipment is in proper working order.

(b) The employer shall ensure that QNFT equipment is kept clean, and

is maintained and calibrated according to the manufacturer's

instructions so as to operate at the parameters for which it was

designed.

2. Generated Aerosol Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol

(a) Apparatus.

(1) Instrumentation. Aerosol generation, dilution, and measurement

systems using particulates (corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400 [PEG 400],

di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate [DEHS] or sodium chloride) as test aerosols

shall be used for quantitative fit testing.

(2) Test chamber. The test chamber shall be large enough to permit

all test subjects to perform freely all required exercises without

disturbing the test agent concentration or the measurement apparatus.

The test chamber shall be equipped and constructed so that the test

agent is effectively isolated from

[[Page 437]]

the ambient air, yet uniform in concentration throughout the chamber.

(3) When testing air-purifying respirators, the normal filter or

cartridge element shall be replaced with a high efficiency particulate

air (HEPA) or P100 series filter supplied by the same manufacturer.

(4) The sampling instrument shall be selected so that a computer

record or strip chart record may be made of the test showing the rise

and fall of the test agent concentration with each inspiration and

expiration at fit factors of at least 2,000. Integrators or computers

that integrate the amount of test agent penetration leakage into the

respirator for each exercise may be used provided a record of the

readings is made.

(5) The combination of substitute air-purifying elements, test agent

and test agent concentration shall be such that the test subject is not

exposed in excess of an established exposure limit for the test agent at

any time during the testing process, based upon the length of the

exposure and the exposure limit duration.

(6) The sampling port on the test specimen respirator shall be

placed and constructed so that no leakage occurs around the port (e.g.,

where the respirator is probed), a free air flow is allowed into the

sampling line at all times, and there is no interference with the fit or

performance of the respirator. The in-mask sampling device (probe) shall

be designed and used so that the air sample is drawn from the breathing

zone of the test subject, midway between the nose and mouth and with the

probe extending into the facepiece cavity at least 1/4 inch.

(7) The test setup shall permit the person administering the test to

observe the test subject inside the chamber during the test.

(8) The equipment generating the test atmosphere shall maintain the

concentration of test agent constant to within a 10 percent variation

for the duration of the test.

(9) The time lag (interval between an event and the recording of the

event on the strip chart or computer or integrator) shall be kept to a

minimum. There shall be a clear association between the occurrence of an

event and its being recorded.

(10) The sampling line tubing for the test chamber atmosphere and

for the respirator sampling port shall be of equal diameter and of the

same material. The length of the two lines shall be equal.

(11) The exhaust flow from the test chamber shall pass through an

appropriate filter (i.e., high efficiency particulate filter) before

release.

(12) When sodium chloride aerosol is used, the relative humidity

inside the test chamber shall not exceed 50 percent.

(13) The limitations of instrument detection shall be taken into

account when determining the fit factor.

(14) Test respirators shall be maintained in proper working order

and be inspected regularly for deficiencies such as cracks or missing

valves and gaskets.

(b) Procedural Requirements.

(1) When performing the initial user seal check using a positive or

negative pressure check, the sampling line shall be crimped closed in

order to avoid air pressure leakage during either of these pressure

checks.

(2) The use of an abbreviated screening QLFT test is optional. Such

a test may be utilized in order to quickly identify poor fitting

respirators that passed the positive and/or negative pressure test and

reduce the amount of QNFT time. The use of the CNC QNFT instrument in

the count mode is another optional method to obtain a quick estimate of

fit and eliminate poor fitting respirators before going on to perform a

full QNFT.

(3) A reasonably stable test agent concentration shall be measured

in the test chamber prior to testing. For canopy or shower curtain types

of test units, the determination of the test agent's stability may be

established after the test subject has entered the test environment.

(4) Immediately after the subject enters the test chamber, the test

agent concentration inside the respirator shall be measured to ensure

that the peak penetration does not exceed 5 percent for a half mask or 1

percent for a full facepiece respirator.

(5) A stable test agent concentration shall be obtained prior to the

actual start of testing.

(6) Respirator restraining straps shall not be over-tightened for

testing. The straps shall be adjusted by the wearer without assistance

from other persons to give a reasonably comfortable fit typical of

normal use. The respirator shall not be adjusted once the fit test

exercises begin.

(7) The test shall be terminated whenever any single peak

penetration exceeds 5 percent for half masks and 1 percent for full

facepiece respirators. The test subject shall be refitted and retested.

(8) Calculation of fit factors.

(i) The fit factor shall be determined for the quantitative fit test

by taking the ratio of the average chamber concentration to the

concentration measured inside the respirator for each test exercise

except the grimace exercise.

(ii) The average test chamber concentration shall be calculated as

the arithmetic average of the concentration measured before and after

each test (i.e., 7 exercises) or the arithmetic average of the

concentration measured before and after each exercise or the true

average measured continuously during the respirator sample.

(iii) The concentration of the challenge agent inside the respirator

shall be determined by one of the following methods:

[[Page 438]]

(A) Average peak penetration method means the method of determining

test agent penetration into the respirator utilizing a strip chart

recorder, integrator, or computer. The agent penetration is determined

by an average of the peak heights on the graph or by computer

integration, for each exercise except the grimace exercise. Integrators

or computers that calculate the actual test agent penetration into the

respirator for each exercise will also be considered to meet the

requirements of the average peak penetration method.

(B) Maximum peak penetration method means the method of determining

test agent penetration in the respirator as determined by strip chart

recordings of the test. The highest peak penetration for a given

exercise is taken to be representative of average penetration into the

respirator for that exercise.

for each exercise except the grimace exercise. This includes

computerized integration.

(D) The calculation of the overall fit factor using individual

exercise fit factors involves first converting the exercise fit factors

to penetration values, determining the average, and then converting that

result back to a fit factor. This procedure is described in the

following equation:

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA98.006

Where ff<INF>1</INF>, ff<INF>2</INF>, ff<INF>3</INF>, etc. are the fit

factors for exercises 1, 2, 3, etc.

(9) The test subject shall not be permitted to wear a half mask or

quarter facepiece respirator unless a minimum fit factor of 100 is

obtained, or a full facepiece respirator unless a minimum fit factor of

500 is obtained.

(10) Filters used for quantitative fit testing shall be replaced

whenever increased breathing resistance is encountered, or when the test

agent has altered the integrity of the filter media.

3. Ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter (CNC) quantitative fit

testing protocol.

The ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter (CNC) quantitative

fit testing (Portacount \TM\ ) protocol quantitatively fit tests

respirators with the use of a probe. The probed respirator is only used

for quantitative fit tests. A probed respirator has a special sampling

device, installed on the respirator, that allows the probe to sample the

air from inside the mask. A probed respirator is required for each make,

style, model, and size that the employer uses and can be obtained from

the respirator manufacturer or distributor. The CNC instrument

manufacturer, TSI Inc., also provides probe attachments (TSI sampling

adapters) that permit fit testing in an employee's own respirator. A

minimum fit factor pass level of at least 100 is necessary for a half-

mask respirator and a minimum fit factor pass level of at least 500 is

required for a full facepiece negative pressure respirator. The entire

screening and testing procedure shall be explained to the test subject

prior to the conduct of the screening test.

(a) Portacount Fit Test Requirements. (1) Check the respirator to

make sure the sampling probe and line are properly attached to the

facepiece and that the respirator is fitted with a particulate filter

capable of preventing significant penetration by the ambient particles

used for the fit test (e.g., NIOSH 42 CFR 84 series 100, series 99, or

series 95 particulate filter) per manufacturer's instruction.

(2) Instruct the person to be tested to don the respirator for five

minutes before the fit test starts. This purges the ambient particles

trapped inside the respirator and permits the wearer to make certain the

respirator is comfortable. This individual shall already have been

trained on how to wear the respirator properly.

(3) Check the following conditions for the adequacy of the

respirator fit: Chin properly placed; Adequate strap tension, not overly

tightened; Fit across nose bridge; Respirator of proper size to span

distance from nose to chin; Tendency of the respirator to slip; Self-

observation in a mirror to evaluate fit and respirator position.

(4) Have the person wearing the respirator do a user seal check. If

leakage is detected, determine the cause. If leakage is from a poorly

fitting facepiece, try another size of the same model respirator, or

another model of respirator.

(5) Follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the

Portacount and proceed with the test.

(6) The test subject shall be instructed to perform the exercises in

section I. A. 14. of this appendix.

(7) After the test exercises, the test subject shall be questioned

by the test conductor regarding the comfort of the respirator upon

completion of the protocol. If it has become unacceptable, another model

of respirator shall be tried.

[[Page 439]]

(b) Portacount Test Instrument.

(1) The Portacount will automatically stop and calculate the overall

fit factor for the entire set of exercises. The overall fit factor is

what counts. The Pass or Fail message will indicate whether or not the

test was successful. If the test was a Pass, the fit test is over.

(2) Since the pass or fail criterion of the Portacount is user

programmable, the test operator shall ensure that the pass or fail

criterion meet the requirements for minimum respirator performance in

this Appendix.

(3) A record of the test needs to be kept on file, assuming the fit

test was successful. The record must contain the test subject's name;

overall fit factor; make, model, style, and size of respirator used; and

date tested.

4. Controlled negative pressure (CNP) quantitative fit testing protocol.

The CNP protocol provides an alternative to aerosol fit test

methods. The CNP fit test method technology is based on exhausting air

from a temporarily sealed respirator facepiece to generate and then

maintain a constant negative pressure inside the facepiece. The rate of

air exhaust is controlled so that a constant negative pressure is

maintained in the respirator during the fit test. The level of pressure

is selected to replicate the mean inspiratory pressure that causes

leakage into the respirator under normal use conditions. With pressure

held constant, air flow out of the respirator is equal to air flow into

the respirator. Therefore, measurement of the exhaust stream that is

required to hold the pressure in the temporarily sealed respirator

constant yields a direct measure of leakage air flow into the

respirator. The CNP fit test method measures leak rates through the

facepiece as a method for determining the facepiece fit for negative

pressure respirators. The CNP instrument manufacturer Occupational

Health Dynamics of Birmingham, Alabama also provides attachments

(sampling manifolds) that replace the filter cartridges to permit fit

testing in an employee's own respirator. To perform the test, the test

subject closes his or her mouth and holds his/her breath, after which an

air pump removes air from the respirator facepiece at a pre-selected

constant pressure. The facepiece fit is expressed as the leak rate

through the facepiece, expressed as milliliters per minute. The quality

and validity of the CNP fit tests are determined by the degree to which

the in-mask pressure tracks the test pressure during the system

measurement time of approximately five seconds. Instantaneous feedback

in the form of a real-time pressure trace of the in-mask pressure is

provided and used to determine test validity and quality. A minimum fit

factor pass level of 100 is necessary for a half-mask respirator and a

minimum fit factor of at least 500 is required for a full facepiece

respirator. The entire screening and testing procedure shall be

explained to the test subject prior to the conduct of the screening

test.

(a) CNP Fit Test Requirements.

(1) The instrument shall have a non-adjustable test pressure of 15.0

mm water pressure.

(2) The CNP system defaults selected for test pressure shall be set

at -15 mm of water (-0.58 inches of water) and the modeled inspiratory

flow rate shall be 53.8 liters per minute for performing fit tests.

Note: CNP systems have built-in capability to conduct fit testing

that is specific to unique work rate, mask, and gender situations that

might apply in a specific workplace. Use of system default values, which

were selected to represent respirator wear with medium cartridge

resistance at a low-moderate work rate, will allow inter-test comparison

of the respirator fit.)

(3) The individual who conducts the CNP fit testing shall be

thoroughly trained to perform the test.

(4) The respirator filter or cartridge needs to be replaced with the

CNP test manifold. The inhalation valve downstream from the manifold

either needs to be temporarily removed or propped open.

(5) The employer must train the test subject to hold his or her

breath for at least 10 seconds.

(6) The test subject must don the test respirator without any

assistance from the test administrator who is conducting the CNP fit

test. The respirator must not be adjusted once the fit-test exercises

begin. Any adjustment voids the test, and the test subject must repeat

the fit test.

(7) The QNFT protocol shall be followed according to section I. C.

1. of this appendix with an exception for the CNP test exercises.

(b) CNP Test Exercises.

(1) Normal breathing. In a normal standing position, without

talking, the subject shall breathe normally for 1 minute. After the

normal breathing exercise, the subject needs to hold head straight ahead

and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds during the test measurement.

(2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing position, the subject shall

breathe slowly and deeply for 1 minute, being careful not to

hyperventilate. After the deep breathing exercise, the subject shall

hold his or her head straight ahead and hold his or her breath for 10

seconds during test measurement.

(3)Turning head side to side. Standing in place, the subject shall

slowly turn his or her head from side to side between the extreme

positions on each side for 1 minute. The head shall be held at each

extreme momentarily so the subject can inhale at each side. After the

turning head side to side exercise, the subject needs to hold head full

left and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds during test measurement.

Next, the subject needs to

[[Page 440]]

hold head full right and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds during

test measurement.

(4) Moving head up and down. Standing in place, the subject shall

slowly move his or her head up and down for 1 minute. The subject shall

be instructed to inhale in the up position (i.e., when looking toward

the ceiling). After the moving head up and down exercise, the subject

shall hold his or her head full up and hold his or her breath for 10

seconds during test measurement. Next, the subject shall hold his or her

head full down and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds during test

measurement.

(5) Talking. The subject shall talk out loud slowly and loud enough

so as to be heard clearly by the test conductor. The subject can read

from a prepared text such as the Rainbow Passage, count backward from

100, or recite a memorized poem or song for 1 minute. After the talking

exercise, the subject shall hold his or her head straight ahead and hold

his or her breath for 10 seconds during the test measurement.

(6) Grimace. The test subject shall grimace by smiling or frowning

for 15 seconds.

(7) Bending Over. The test subject shall bend at the waist as if he

or she were to touch his or her toes for 1 minute. Jogging in place

shall be substituted for this exercise in those test environments such

as shroud-type QNFT units that prohibit bending at the waist. After the

bending over exercise, the subject shall hold his or her head straight

ahead and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds during the test

measurement.

(8) Normal Breathing. The test subject shall remove and re-don the

respirator within a one-minute period. Then, in a normal standing

position, without talking, the subject shall breathe normally for 1

minute. After the normal breathing exercise, the subject shall hold his

or her head straight ahead and hold his or her breath for 10 seconds

during the test measurement. After the test exercises, the test subject

shall be questioned by the test conductor regarding the comfort of the

respirator upon completion of the protocol. If it has become

unacceptable, another model of a respirator shall be tried.

(1) The test instrument must have an effective audio-warning device,

or a visual-warning device in the form of a screen tracing, that

indicates when the test subject fails to hold his or her breath during

the test. The test must be terminated and restarted from the beginning

when the test subject fails to hold his or her breath during the test.

The test subject then may be refitted and retested.

(2) A record of the test shall be kept on file, assuming the fit

test was successful. The record must contain the test subject's name;

overall fit factor; make, model, style and size of respirator used; and

date tested.

5. Controlled negative pressure (CNP) REDON quantitative fit testing

protocol.

(a) When administering this protocol to test subjects, employers

must comply with the requirements specified in paragraphs (a) and (c) of

Part I.C.4 of this appendix (``Controlled negative pressure (CNP)

quantitative fit testing protocol''), as well as use the test exercises

described below in paragraph (b) of this protocol instead of the test

exercises specified in paragraph (b) of Part I.C.4 of this appendix.

(b) Employers must ensure that each test subject being fit tested

using this protocol follows the exercise and measurement procedures,

including the order of administration, described below in Table A-1 of

this appendix.

Table A-1--CNP REDON Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Measurement

Exercises\1\ Exercise procedure procedure

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Facing Forward.................. Stand and breathe Face forward,

normally, without while holding

talking, for 30 breath for 10

seconds. seconds.

Bending Over.................... Bend at the waist, Face parallel to

as if going to the floor, while

touch his or her holding breath

toes, for 30 for 10 seconds

seconds.

Head Shaking.................... For about three Face forward,

seconds, shake while holding

head back and breath for 10

forth vigorously seconds

several times

while shouting.

REDON 1......................... Remove the Face forward,

respirator mask, while holding

loosen all breath for 10

facepiece straps, seconds.

and then redon

the respirator

mask.

REDON 2......................... Remove the Face forward,

respirator mask, while holding

loosen all breath for 10

facepiece straps, seconds.

and then redon

the respirator

mask again.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ Exercises are listed in the order in which they are to be

administered.

question each test subject regarding the comfort of the respirator. When

a test subject states that the respirator is unacceptable, the employer

must ensure that the test administrator repeats the protocol using

another respirator model.

(d) Employers must determine the overall fit factor for each test

subject by calculating the harmonic mean of the fit testing exercises as

follows:

[[Page 441]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR04AU04.001

Where:

N = The number of exercises;

FF<INF>1</INF> = The fit factor for the first exercise;

FF<INF>2</INF> = The fit factor for the second exercise; and

FF<INF>N</INF> = The fit factor for the nth exercise.

Part II. New Fit Test Protocols

A. Any person may submit to OSHA an application for approval of a

new fit test protocol. If the application meets the following criteria,

OSHA will initiate a rulemaking proceeding under section 6(b)(7) of the

OSH Act to determine whether to list the new protocol as an approved

protocol in this Appendix A.

B. The application must include a detailed description of the

proposed new fit test protocol. This application must be supported by

either:

1. A test report prepared by an independent government research

laboratory (e.g., Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Los Alamos

National Laboratory, the National Institute for Standards and

Technology) stating that the laboratory has tested the protocol and had

found it to be accurate and reliable; or

2. An article that has been published in a peer-reviewed industrial

hygiene journal describing the protocol and explaining how test data

support the protocol's accuracy and reliability.

C. If OSHA determines that additional information is required before

the Agency commences a rulemaking proceeding under this section, OSHA

will so notify the applicant and afford the applicant the opportunity to

submit the supplemental information. Initiation of a rulemaking

proceeding will be deferred until OSHA has received and evaluated the

supplemental information.

Appendix B-1 to Sec. 1910.134: User Seal Check Procedures (Mandatory)

The individual who uses a tight-fitting respirator is to perform a

user seal check to ensure that an adequate seal is achieved each time

the respirator is put on. Either the positive and negative pressure

checks listed in this appendix, or the respirator manufacturer's

recommended user seal check method shall be used. User seal checks are

not substitutes for qualitative or quantitative fit tests.

I. Facepiece Positive and/or Negative Pressure Checks

A. Positive pressure check. Close off the exhalation valve and

exhale gently into the facepiece. The face fit is considered

satisfactory if a slight positive pressure can be built up inside the

facepiece without any evidence of outward leakage of air at the seal.

For most respirators this method of leak testing requires the wearer to

first remove the exhalation valve cover before closing off the

exhalation valve and then carefully replacing it after the test.

B. Negative pressure check. Close off the inlet opening of the

canister or cartridge(s) by covering with the palm of the hand(s) or by

replacing the filter seal(s), inhale gently so that the facepiece

collapses slightly, and hold the breath for ten seconds. The design of

the inlet opening of some cartridges cannot be effectively covered with

the palm of the hand. The test can be performed by covering the inlet

opening of the cartridge with a thin latex or nitrile glove. If the

facepiece remains in its slightly collapsed condition and no inward

leakage of air is detected, the tightness of the respirator is

considered satisfactory.

II. Manufacturer's Recommended User Seal Check Procedures

The respirator manufacturer's recommended procedures for performing

a user seal check may be used instead of the positive and/or negative

pressure check procedures provided that the employer demonstrates that

the manufacturer's procedures are equally effective.

Appendix B-2 to Sec. 1910.134: Respirator Cleaning Procedures

(Mandatory)

These procedures are provided for employer use when cleaning

respirators. They are general in nature, and the employer as an

alternative may use the cleaning recommendations provided by the

manufacturer of the respirators used by their employees, provided such

procedures are as effective as those listed here in Appendix B-2.

Equivalent effectiveness simply means that the procedures used must

accomplish the objectives set forth in Appendix B-2, i.e., must ensure

that the respirator is properly cleaned and disinfected in a manner that

prevents damage to the respirator and does not cause harm to the user.

I. Procedures for Cleaning Respirators

A. Remove filters, cartridges, or canisters. Disassemble facepieces

by removing speaking diaphragms, demand and pressure-demand valve

assemblies, hoses, or any components recommended by the manufacturer.

Discard or repair any defective parts.

B. Wash components in warm (43 [deg]C [110 [deg]F] maximum) water

with a mild detergent or with a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

A stiff bristle (not wire) brush may be used to facilitate the removal

of dirt.

C. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43 [deg]C [110

[deg]F] maximum), preferably running water. Drain.

[[Page 442]]

D. When the cleaner used does not contain a disinfecting agent,

respirator components should be immersed for two minutes in one of the

following:

1. Hypochlorite solution (50 ppm of chlorine) made by adding

approximately one milliliter of laundry bleach to one liter of water at

43 [deg]C (110 [deg]F); or,

2. Aqueous solution of iodine (50 ppm iodine) made by adding

approximately 0.8 milliliters of tincture of iodine (6-8 grams ammonium

and/or potassium iodide/100 cc of 45% alcohol) to one liter of water at

43 [deg]C (110 [deg]F); or,

3. Other commercially available cleansers of equivalent disinfectant

quality when used as directed, if their use is recommended or approved

by the respirator manufacturer.

E. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43 [deg]C [110

[deg]F] maximum), preferably running water. Drain. The importance of

thorough rinsing cannot be overemphasized. Detergents or disinfectants

that dry on facepieces may result in dermatitis. In addition, some

disinfectants may cause deterioration of rubber or corrosion of metal

parts if not completely removed.

F. Components should be hand-dried with a clean lint-free cloth or

air-dried.

G. Reassemble facepiece, replacing filters, cartridges, and

canisters where necessary.

H. Test the respirator to ensure that all components work properly.

Appendix C to Sec. 1910.134: OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation

Questionnaire (Mandatory)

To the employer: Answers to questions in Section 1, and to question

9 in Section 2 of Part A, do not require a medical examination.

To the employee:

Can you read (circle one): Yes/No

Your employer must allow you to answer this questionnaire during

normal working hours, or at a time and place that is convenient to you.

To maintain your confidentiality, your employer or supervisor must not

look at or review your answers, and your employer must tell you how to

deliver or send this questionnaire to the health care professional who

will review it.

Part A. Section 1. (Mandatory) The following information must be

provided by every employee who has been selected to use any type of

respirator (please print).

1. Today's date:________________________________________________________

2. Your name:___________________________________________________________

3. Your age (to nearest year):__________________________________________

4. Sex (circle one): Male/Female

5. Your height: ---- ft. ---- in.

6. Your weight: ---- lbs.

7. Your job title:______________________________________________________

8. A phone number where you can be reached by the health care

professional who reviews this questionnaire (include the Area Code): --

----

9. The best time to phone you at this number: ----

10. Has your employer told you how to contact the health care

professional who will review this questionnaire (circle one): Yes/No

11. Check the type of respirator you will use (you can check more than

one category):

a. ---- N, R, or P disposable respirator (filter-mask, non-cartridge

type only).

b. ---- Other type (for example, half- or full-facepiece type,

powered-air purifying, supplied-air, self-contained breathing

apparatus).

12. Have you worn a respirator (circle one): Yes/No

7 If ``yes,'' what type(s):_____________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Part A. Section 2. (Mandatory) Questions 1 through 9 below must be

answered by every employee who has been selected to use any type of

respirator (please circle ``yes'' or ``no'').

1. Do you currently smoke tobacco, or have you smoked tobacco in the

last month: Yes/No

2. Have you ever had any of the following conditions?

a. Seizures (fits): Yes/No

b. Diabetes (sugar disease): Yes/No

c. Allergic reactions that interfere with your breathing: Yes/No

d. Claustrophobia (fear of closed-in places): Yes/No

e. Trouble smelling odors: Yes/No

3. Have you ever had any of the following pulmonary or lung problems?

a. Asbestosis: Yes/No

b. Asthma: Yes/No

c. Chronic bronchitis: Yes/No

d. Emphysema: Yes/No

e. Pneumonia: Yes/No

f. Tuberculosis: Yes/No

g. Silicosis: Yes/No

h. Pneumothorax (collapsed lung): Yes/No

i. Lung cancer: Yes/No

j. Broken ribs: Yes/No

k. Any chest injuries or surgeries: Yes/No

l. Any other lung problem that you've been told about: Yes/No

4. Do you currently have any of the following symptoms of pulmonary or

lung illness?

a. Shortness of breath: Yes/No

b. Shortness of breath when walking fast on level ground or walking

up a slight hill or incline: Yes/No

c. Shortness of breath when walking with other people at an ordinary

pace on level ground: Yes/No

d. Have to stop for breath when walking at your own pace on level

ground: Yes/No

[[Page 443]]

e. Shortness of breath when washing or dressing yourself: Yes/No

f. Shortness of breath that interferes with your job: Yes/No

g. Coughing that produces phlegm (thick sputum): Yes/No

h. Coughing that wakes you early in the morning: Yes/No

i. Coughing that occurs mostly when you are lying down: Yes/No

j. Coughing up blood in the last month: Yes/No

k. Wheezing: Yes/No

l. Wheezing that interferes with your job: Yes/No

m. Chest pain when you breathe deeply: Yes/No

n. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to lung

problems: Yes/No

5. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart

problems?

a. Heart attack: Yes/No

b. Stroke: Yes/No

c. Angina: Yes/No

d. Heart failure: Yes/No

e. Swelling in your legs or feet (not caused by walking): Yes/No

f. Heart arrhythmia (heart beating irregularly): Yes/No

g. High blood pressure: Yes/No

h. Any other heart problem that you've been told about: Yes/No

6. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart

symptoms?

a. Frequent pain or tightness in your chest: Yes/No

b. Pain or tightness in your chest during physical activity: Yes/No

c. Pain or tightness in your chest that interferes with your job:

Yes/No

d. In the past two years, have you noticed your heart skipping or

missing a beat: Yes/No

e. Heartburn or indigestion that is not related to eating: Yes/No

f. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to heart or

circulation problems: Yes/No

7. Do you currently take medication for any of the following problems?

a. Breathing or lung problems: Yes/No

b. Heart trouble: Yes/No

c. Blood pressure: Yes/No

d. Seizures (fits): Yes/No

8. If you've used a respirator, have you ever had any of the following

problems? (If you've never used a respirator, check the

following space and go to question 9:)

a. Eye irritation: Yes/No

b. Skin allergies or rashes: Yes/No

c. Anxiety: Yes/No

d. General weakness or fatigue: Yes/No

e. Any other problem that interferes with your use of a respirator:

Yes/No

9. Would you like to talk to the health care professional who will

review this questionnaire about your answers to this

questionnaire: Yes/No

Questions 10 to 15 below must be answered by every employee who has

been selected to use either a full-facepiece respirator or a self-

contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). For employees who have been

selected to use other types of respirators, answering these questions is

voluntary.

10. Have you ever lost vision in either eye (temporarily or

permanently): Yes/No

11. Do you currently have any of the following vision problems?

a. Wear contact lenses: Yes/No

b. Wear glasses: Yes/No

c. Color blind: Yes/No

d. Any other eye or vision problem: Yes/No

12. Have you ever had an injury to your ears, including a broken ear

drum: Yes/No

13. Do you currently have any of the following hearing problems?

a. Difficulty hearing: Yes/No

b. Wear a hearing aid: Yes/No

c. Any other hearing or ear problem: Yes/No

14. Have you ever had a back injury: Yes/No

15. Do you currently have any of the following musculoskeletal problems?

a. Weakness in any of your arms, hands, legs, or feet: Yes/No

b. Back pain: Yes/No

c. Difficulty fully moving your arms and legs: Yes/No

d. Pain or stiffness when you lean forward or backward at the waist:

Yes/No

e. Difficulty fully moving your head up or down: Yes/No

f. Difficulty fully moving your head side to side: Yes/No

g. Difficulty bending at your knees: Yes/No

h. Difficulty squatting to the ground: Yes/No

i. Climbing a flight of stairs or a ladder carrying more than 25

lbs: Yes/No

j. Any other muscle or skeletal problem that interferes with using a

respirator: Yes/No

Part B Any of the following questions, and other questions not

listed, may be added to the questionnaire at the discretion of the

health care professional who will review the questionnaire.

1. In your present job, are you working at high altitudes (over 5,000

feet) or in a place that has lower than normal amounts of

oxygen: Yes/No

If ``yes,'' do you have feelings of dizziness, shortness of breath,

pounding in your chest, or other symptoms when you're working under

these conditions: Yes/No

2. At work or at home, have you ever been exposed to hazardous solvents,

hazardous airborne chemicals (e.g., gases, fumes, or dust), or

have you come into skin contact with hazardous chemicals: Yes/

[[Page 444]]

If ``yes,'' name the chemicals if you know them:_______________________

3. Have you ever worked with any of the materials, or under any of the

conditions, listed below:

a. Asbestos: Yes/No

b. Silica (e.g., in sandblasting): Yes/No

c. Tungsten/cobalt (e.g., grinding or welding this material): Yes/No

d. Beryllium: Yes/No

e. Aluminum: Yes/No

f. Coal (for example, mining): Yes/No

g. Iron: Yes/No

h. Tin: Yes/No

i. Dusty environments: Yes/No

j. Any other hazardous exposures: Yes/No

If ``yes,'' describe these exposures:__________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

4. List any second jobs or side businesses you have:____________________

________________________________________________________________________

5. List your previous occupations:______________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

6. List your current and previous hobbies:______________________________

________________________________________________________________________

7. Have you been in the military services? Yes/No

If ``yes,'' were you exposed to biological or chemical agents

(either in training or combat): Yes/No

8. Have you ever worked on a HAZMAT team? Yes/No

9. Other than medications for breathing and lung problems, heart

trouble, blood pressure, and seizures mentioned earlier in

this questionnaire, are you taking any other medications for

any reason (including over-the-counter medications): Yes/No

If ``yes,'' name the medications if you know them:_____________________

10. Will you be using any of the following items with your

respirator(s)?

a. HEPA Filters: Yes/No

b. Canisters (for example, gas masks): Yes/No

c. Cartridges: Yes/No

11. How often are you expected to use the respirator(s) (circle ``yes''

or ``no'' for all answers that apply to you)?:

a. Escape only (no rescue): Yes/No

b. Emergency rescue only: Yes/No

c. Less than 5 hours per week: Yes/No

d. Less than 2 hours per day: Yes/No

e. 2 to 4 hours per day: Yes/No

f. Over 4 hours per day: Yes/No

12. During the period you are using the respirator(s), is your work

effort:

a. Light (less than 200 kcal per hour): Yes/No

If ``yes,'' how long does this period last during the average shift:----

--------hrs.------------mins.

Examples of a light work effort are sitting while writing, typing,

drafting, or performing light assembly work; or standing while operating

a drill press (1-3 lbs.) or controlling machines.

b. Moderate (200 to 350 kcal per hour): Yes/No

If ``yes,'' how long does this period last during the average

shift:------------hrs.------------mins.

Examples of moderate work effort are sitting while nailing or

filing; driving a truck or bus in urban traffic; standing while

drilling, nailing, performing assembly work, or transferring a moderate

load (about 35 lbs.) at trunk level; walking on a level surface about 2

mph or down a 5-degree grade about 3 mph; or pushing a wheelbarrow with

a heavy load (about 100 lbs.) on a level surface.

c. Heavy (above 350 kcal per hour): Yes/No

If ``yes,'' how long does this period last during the average

shift:------------hrs.------------mins.

Examples of heavy work are lifting a heavy load (about 50 lbs.) from

the floor to your waist or shoulder; working on a loading dock;

shoveling; standing while bricklaying or chipping castings; walking up

an 8-degree grade about 2 mph; climbing stairs with a heavy load (about

50 lbs.).

13. Will you be wearing protective clothing and/or equipment (other than

the respirator) when you're using your respirator: Yes/No

If ``yes,'' describe this protective clothing and/or equipment:________

________________________________________________________________________

14. Will you be working under hot con