Problem:
In recent years the proper use of respirators has become an increasingly visible issue within the collision repair industry.
Respiratory protection is an important part of a collision business' safety and compliance process. It requires the assessment of the operation and the environment. As necessary, the appropriate personal protection equipment should be used.
Here's a summary of regulatory requirements for using respirators in collision repair centers:
1. Site-specific written program
2. Medical evaluation for all employees required to use respirators (painters, welders, sanders and buffers)
3. Annual respirator training
4. Fit testing is required
•Prior to initial use
•Upon changes of a wearer's face that could affect the fit
•At least annually
5. Testing to determine change-out schedule on cartridge respirators
6. Documentation of change schedule
Solution:
1. Check your Compliance Department User Guide to make sure your written program is up to date---if it needs modification or updating, let us know. There is a discount for Compliance Department subscribers.
2. Have each employee required to use a respirator (painters, welders, sanders and buffers) complete the Medical Evaluation Questionnaire and mail to GMG EnviroSafe.
3. As necessary, schedule annual training and fit testing with either GMG EnviroSafe or your respirator vendor.
4. Include training, medical evaluation, and "fit testing" as part of your new employee hiring process.
5. As with other types of personal protection equipment, employers are required to provide such equipment at no cost to employees, and employees are required to use and maintain it. We recommend using the Safety Equipment Acknowledgement form (available through GMG EnviroSafe) for documentation.
If you have any questions, or need any support in addressing these requirements including medical evaluations, training materials, or vapor air monitoring to determine change out schedule, please call GMG EnviroSafe at 800-619-9733.