Bulletin Board Magazine 2019 Volume 3

• Pro tip - Gas and combination respirators require chemical cartridges to filter toxic fumes. Cartridges are labeled using an industry-wide color coding system to indicate which gases or vapors they are capable for filtering. Use the chart below to guide you to the right cartridge. Using the right type of respirator is not only important for your personal safety, but can also help you comply with legislation that limits worker exposure to silica dust. Learn about the silica dust legislation that went into effect in 2017. 2. Determine the respirator fit you need. OSHA categorizes respirator fit between two distinct categories: tight-fitting and loose-fitting. The respirator fit you need will depend on the air quality in a work space. If the air is contaminated by toxic substance or is lacking oxygen, then it is said to be immediately dangerous to life or health, or IDLH.

• Are required by OSHA to be fit-tested by a qualified tester the first time it is worn and at least once annually after that.

Be sure to inform your crew about things that can impact respirator seal and enforce compliance on the jobsite. Protect the health and safety of yourself and your crew with our online selection of respiratory safety products Find the right respirator cartridge for different gases

• Loose-fitting respirators

• Can be worn in areas that are not determined to be IDLH.

• Do not need to be fit-tested according to OSHA requirements. • Consider respirator size and seal. A respirator must be the right size in order to create a seal around the face. This is especially true for tight-fitting respirators. Because all respirators fit differently, employers must provide a range of different respirator sizes and models for their crew in order to comply with OSHA regulations. Several things that can compromise respirator seal including: • Eyeglasses and safety goggles • Beards and facial hair • Facial piercings • Dental gear • Facial structure

Type of contaminant

Cartridge color

Organic vapor

Black

Acid, ammonia and organic gases

Brown

Carbon monoxide

Blue

Ammonia fumes

Green

Acid and organic gases

Yellow

3. Tight-fitting respirators

• Must be worn in areas that are determined to be IDLH.

Acid gases

White

Attention Builders! Join us for a Builder-Only Product Showcase on October 29th from 4-7 PM at the Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune, NJ.

RSVP SBACNJ Office 732-364-2828 or click here for information.

This is a builder/contractor only event. Bring your job supers and purchasing agents!

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