Sample Respiratory Protection Program (Page 7 of 9) in pdf

b. Compressed breathing air must meet at least the requirements for

grade D breathing air, oxygen content 19.5-23.5%, Hydrocarbon content

of 5 mg/m3, Carbon Monoxide content of 10 ppm or less, and lack

of noticeable odor.

c. Compressed oxygen must not be used in atmosphere-supplying

respirators that have previously used compressed air.

d. Oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5% must not be used in equip-

ment unless it was designed for oxygen service or distribution.

e. Cylinders used to supply breathing air to respirators must be tested and

maintained according to Department of Transportation regulations in

49 CFR parts 173 and 178, and be accompanied by a certificate from

the supplier that the breathing air meets the requirements for Grade D

breathing air, and that the moisture content in the cylinder does not

exceed a dew point of –50 degrees F at 1 atmosphere pressure.

f. Compressors used to supply breathing air must be constructed and

situated so as to prevent entry of contaminated air, minimize moisture

content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure is 10 degrees F

below the ambient temperature.

g. Compressors must have in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters to

further ensure breathing air quality, they must be maintained and

replaced periodically following the manufacturer’s instructions, and

tagged with the most recent change date and signature of person

changing them.

h. Oil-lubricated compressors must have a high temperature or carbon

monoxide alarm, or both, to monitor carbon monoxide levels. If only

high temperature alarm is used, the air supply must be monitored

before use, then twice weekly, to keep carbon monoxide levels below

10 ppm.

i. Non-oil lubricated compressors must not produce carbon monoxide

levels greater than 10%.

j. Breathing air couplings must be incompatible with outlets for non-

respirable worksite air or other gas systems. No asphyxiating

substances are to be allowed into the breathing air lines.

Training and Information: Effective respirator training must be provided

for employees required to wear respirators. The training must be compre-

hensive, understandable, and must be provided before requiring an

employee to use a respirator and at least annually thereafter.

1. Employees who are allowed to voluntarily wear dust masks must be

provided the basic information on respirators in Appendix D.

2. Employees must be able to demonstrate at least :

a. why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or

maintenance can compromise the protection of the respirator;

b. what the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are;

c. how to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations,

Sample Respiratory Protection Program Page 7