AVOID being on OSHA’s “Hit Parade”
Respiratory Protection is #2 of OSHA's top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards
ABILITYusa with associated Preferred Providers address some of the most critical Respiratory Health needs for employees whose essential tasks require use of a RESPIRATOR.
ABILITYusa has NIOSH Approved clinicians and technicians who perform both Spirometry and Respirator Fit Testing at your location or at selected Preferred Provider Clinics.
SPIROMETRY
Q
WHAT is it?
A
Spirometry is the most common type of pulmonary function or breathing test used to assess and monitor respiratory and general health in the work place.
Q
Why?
A
Spirometry is used to assess and monitor the Respiratory Health of employees exposed to airborne hazards, such as fumes, dust, asbestos, mold, silica, smoke, and particulates. It is used for early detection of decline in respiratory health and status.
Q
Who?
A
Spirometry should be performed on ANY employee that may be exposed to airborne hazards in the workplace.
Q
When should it be performed?
A
Spirometry should be performed as part of a:
- Post-offer / Pre-employment medical surveillance program,
- Prior to assigning a respirator, and
- Annually (or more often if exposure, health status changes)
Q
How to use the data collected?
A
Spirometry can provide valuable information regarding the effectiveness of respiratory protection program (i.e., Respirator or Filter selection; user compliance). Spirometry is a great way to monitor health of employee.
RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING
Q
Why?
A
Respirator Fit Testing ensures that employees wearing a respirator (including N95 masks) are being protected from the hazards that they are exposed to.
Q
Who?
A
Respirator Fit Testing should be performed for ALL employees required to wear a respirator; this includes N95 masks.
Q
How often should it be completed?
A
OSHA requires Respirator Fit Testing be performed when a new respirator is assigned and annually. Testing should also be completed if the employee has ANY changes in physical health status, (i.e., weight loss or gain, facial injury or surgery, or dental or orthodontic changes).
Other Resources for Employee Respiratory Health and Safety:
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A RESPIRATOR AND A SURGICAL MASK?
HOW TO PUT ON AND TAKE OFF A MASK:
SEVEN STEPS TO CORRECTLY WEAR A RESPIRATOR AT WORK: PRINTABLE PDF POSTER
