Respiratory Protection Selection and Use

Pipeworx Respiratory Protection Code of Practice governs the selection, maintenance and use of respiratory protective equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), when applicable to the hazard.

Respirator use is guided by occupational exposure levels (OEL) and threshold limit values (TLV). These values define concentrations of contaminants under which most people can work consistently without harmful effects.

Personnel will wear a respirator if concentrations are above these levels. A respirator is recommended if exposure is greater than 50% of the OEL. Workers always have the option to wear a respirator when desired, even if concentrations are below the OEL.

All personnel should be trained on respirator use and fit-tested prior to being issued with a respirator. They will be given a card verifying training and will present it to the tool crib/shop foreman to sign out a respirator. All personnel are required to be clean-shaven in the areas where a respirator seal is formed on the face. All personnel required to use a respirator must complete a training/medical questionnaire that will be reviewed by project medical personnel prior to fit testing. If there is a concern with a workers ability to wear a respirator, the worker will seek permission for respirator use from a physician, prior to fit test and issue. All workers required to wear a respirator will have it fit tested.

In the future, Fit testing records will be completed and retained with the medical questionnaire on the employee’s health file. Training records shall be maintained as per project requirements. Half face respirators are the minimum standard to be used on site. Disposable (paper filters) respirators may not be acceptable on the client’s site. Where breathing apparatus is used there shall always be an attendant maintaining the air supply and, if required, to raise the alarm in case of an emergency.

The responsibilities of the attendant shall be detailed in the JSA and or the HSE Program.