What is a requirement before wearing respiratory protection?

Wearing respiratory protection is crucial for ensuring safety in environments where airborne contaminants may pose health risks. Before an individual can wear a respirator, it is mandatory to complete a fit test and a medical evaluation.

The fit test ensures that the respirator properly fits the user’s face and provides an adequate seal to prevent exposure to harmful substances. This is essential because even the best respirator will not protect the user if it doesn’t fit correctly. The medical evaluation assesses whether the individual is physically able to use respiratory protective equipment without compromising their health, particularly if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions or other medical issues that could be aggravated by wearing a respirator.

This two-step requirement is crucial for ensuring that the respiratory protection program is effective and that users are safe while performing their duties.