Respirator Protection Manual

15 Respiratory Protection Program G. Respirator Maintenance Cleaning Employees are responsible for ensuring that their respirators are used and stored in a clean condition. Disposable dust masks can be reused, but should be discarded when dirty. Alcohol wipe pads may be used on half-face, full-face and air-supplied respirators needing light cleaning. Respirators that need thorough cleaning should be taken apart and washed in warm water with a mild commercial detergent. Cleaning products are available through cyBUY. After cleaning, respirators should be dried, reassembled and stored in their box or a plastic bag. Once stored, respirators must not have objects resting against them. Any respirator that is shared must be cleaned and disinfected after each use. Replacement Parts All respirators should be inspected before each use and again when reassembled after cleaning. Any parts that are defective should be replaced with the manufacturer’s replacement parts. Parts can be obtained through ISU Central Stores. SCBA Air Quality and Inspection Compressors used to fill self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) should be tested quarterly. The compressors’ air must be tested for carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxygen concentration and hydrocarbon condensate. Compressor air filters should be changed per the manufacturer’s guidelines. SCBAs should be inspected monthly. The units must be inspected for proper function and also to confirm that a minimum cylinder air capacity of 90% is maintained. Cylinders with air capacity falling below this level must be refilled.