NSCC has determined that some of its employees are or can be exposed to respiratory hazards. The purpose of this program is to ensure that all employees are protected from exposure to these hazards.
Engineering controls such as ventilation and substitution of less toxic materials are the first line of defense. This program applies to all employees who are required to wear respirators during normal work operations or during emergencies. Employees participating in the program do so at no cost to them.
Employees who voluntarily choose to use a cartridge style respirator when the respirator is not required are subject to the medical evaluation, cleaning, maintenance and storage elements of the program. These individuals need to also read Appendix A of the written program.
Here are some highlights of Appendix A -
- Read and follow all manufacturer's instructions on use, maintenance and cleaning and warnings regarding limitations on use.
- Choose only NIOSH certified respirators.
- Do not wear respirators in atmospheres for which your respirator is not designed to protect against.
Individuals who use dust masks only in the course of their work are excluded from the requirements of this program.