SIST EN 529:2006
(Main)Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection, use, care and maintenance - Guidance document
Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection, use, care and maintenance - Guidance document
This European Standard provides guidance on the best practice for establishing and implementing a suitable respiratory protective device programme. It is published to provide a Europe-wide baseline for the selection, use, care and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. It provides guidelines for preparing national guidance in this area. The guidance contained in this European Standard is not intended to be exhaustive, but highlights important aspects to which attention should be given. The recommendations in this European Standard will help to comply with national legislation on this subject where it exists, or with European legislation.
Respiratory protective devices used exclusively in diving and at increased or reduced atmospheric pressures are not covered by this guidance.
Atemschutzgeräte - Empfehlungen für Auswahl, Einsatz, Pflege und Instandhaltung - Leitfaden
Diese Europäische Norm ist ein Leitfaden zur optimalen Erstellung und Einführung eines geeigneten Atemschutzgeräteprogrammes. Sie wird veröffentlicht, um eine europaweite Grundlage für Auswahl, Einsatz, Pflege und Instandhaltung von Atemschutzgeräten zu geben. Sie gibt Anleitungen zum Erstellen nationaler Leitfäden auf diesem Gebiet. Es ist nicht beabsichtigt, dass der in dieser Europäischen Norm enthaltene Leitfaden erschöpfend ist, aber er betont wichtige Aspekte, die beachtet werden sollten. Die Empfehlungen in dieser Europäischen Norm können helfen, nationaler Gesetzgebung auf diesem Gebiet zu entsprechen, sofern vorhanden, oder europäischer Gesetzgebung zu entsprechen.
Atemschutzgeräte, die ausschließlich zum Tauchen oder bei erhöhten oder erniedrigten atmosphärischen Drücken benutzt werden, werden von diesem Leitfaden nicht abgedeckt.
Appareils de protection respiratoire - Recommandations pour le choix, l'utilisation, l'entretien et la maintenance - Guide
La présente Norme européenne fournit des recommandations concernant la meilleure pratique de
l'établissement et de la mise en oeuvre d'un programme approprié de protection respiratoire. La présente
Norme européenne est publiée pour fournir une base de référence au niveau européen en matière de
sélection, d'utilisation, d'entretien et de maintenance des appareils de protection respiratoire. Elle fournit des
directives visant à l'élaboration de recommandations nationales dans ce domaine. Les recommandations
contenues dans la présente Norme européenne ne sont pas destinées à être exhaustives, mais insistent sur
les aspects importants auxquels il convient d'accorder une attention toute particulière. Les recommandations
contenues dans la présente Norme européenne faciliteront le respect de la législation nationale sur ce sujet,
quand elle existe, ou de la législation européenne.
Les appareils de protection respiratoire utilisés exclusivement en plongée et à des pressions atmosphériques
élevées ou réduites ne sont pas couverts par le présent guide.
Oprema za varovanje dihal – Priporočila za izbiro, uporabo, nego in vzdrževanje – Navodilo
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2006
Nadomešča:
SIST CR 529:1998
Oprema za varovanje dihal – Priporočila za izbiro, uporabo, nego in vzdrževanje –
Navodilo
Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection, use, care and
maintenance - Guidance document
Atemschutzgeräte - Empfehlungen für Auswahl, Einsatz, Pflege und Instandhaltung -
Leitfaden
Appareils de protection respiratoire - Recommandations pour le choix, l'utilisation,
l'entretien et la maintenance - Guide
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 529:2005
ICS:
13.340.30 Varovalne dihalne naprave Respiratory protective
devices
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 529
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
October 2005
ICS 13.340.30 Supersedes CR 529:1993
English Version
Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection,
use, care and maintenance - Guidance document
Appareils de protection respiratoire - Recommandations Atemschutzgeräte - Empfehlungen für Auswahl, Einsatz,
pour le choix, l'utilisation, l'entretien et la maintenance - Pflege und Instandhaltung - Leitfaden
Guide
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 22 July 2005.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official
versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia,
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels
© 2005 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 529:2005: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents
Page
Foreword . 5
Introduction. 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references. 7
3 Terms and definitions. 7
4 Classification. 9
4.1 General classification . 9
4.2 Main components. 9
4.2.1 General. 9
4.2.2 Facepieces. 9
4.2.3 Filters . 9
4.2.4 Breathable air or gas supply source for breathing apparatus. 9
5 Programme process. 10
5.1 Employers and self-employed persons responsibilities. 10
5.1.1 Programme policy. 10
5.1.2 Provision of respiratory protective devices. 10
5.1.3 Organisation. 10
5.1.4 Resources. 10
5.1.5 Management review . 10
5.1.6 Training. 10
5.1.7 Supervision. 10
5.2 Employees responsibilities . 11
5.2.1 Wearers. 11
5.2.2 Competent persons. 11
5.3 Manufacturers’ responsibilities . 11
6 Risk assessment process . 11
7 Criteria for using respiratory protective devices. 12
8 Risk assessment for respiratory protective device use. 12
8.1 Elements of respiratory protective device programme. 12
8.2 Factors to consider in risk assessment . 13
9 Adequacy and suitability . 13
9.1 General. 13
9.2 Adequacy. 13
9.2.1 General. 13
9.2.2 Assessing atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health . 13
9.2.3 Assessing the minimum required protection factor. 14
9.3 Suitability. 14
9.3.1 General. 14
9.3.2 Assessing suitability for the workplace environment. 14
9.3.3 Assessing suitability for the task . 15
9.3.4 Assessing suitability for the wearer . 15
9.3.5 CE-Marking . 15
10 Use . 16
11 Operating information, instruction and training . 16
11.1 General. 16
11.2 Employers. 16
11.3 Wearers. 16
11.4 Supervisors . 17
12 Maintenance . 17
13 Storage. 17
13.1 Employers duties . 17
13.2 Employees’ duties. 17
14 Record keeping . 17
Annex A (informative) Types and components of respiratory protective devices . 19
A.1 Facepieces. 19
A.1.1 Half mask without inhalation valves and with separable filters to protect against gases or
gases and particles and particles only (EN 1827). 19
A.1.2 Half masks and quarter masks (EN 140) . 19
A.1.3 Full face Masks (EN 136) . 19
A.2 Filters . 20
A.2.1 General. 20
A.2.2 Particle filters (EN 143, EN 12941 and EN 12942) . 20
A.2.3 Gas filters and combined filters (EN 14387, EN 12941 and EN 12942). 20
A.2.4 Service life of filters . 21
A.3 Filtering devices. 22
A.3.1 General. 22
A.3.2 Negative pressure devices . 22
A.3.3 Assisted filtering devices . 23
A.4 Breathing apparatus . 24
A.4.1 Fresh air hose breathing apparatus. 24
A.4.2 Compressed air line breathing apparatus (EN 14593-1, EN 14593-2, EN 14594, EN 1835 and
EN 12419). 25
A.4.3 Self-contained breathing apparatus . 26
A.4.4 Ventilated protective suits (EN 943-1 and EN 1073-1) . 27
A.4.5 Compressed air for breathing apparatus (EN 12021) . 27
Escape devices . 30
Annex B (informative) Atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health . 32
B.1 General. 32
B.2 Conditions . 32
B.3 Situations likely to present atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health. 32
B.3.1 Confined spaces . 32
B.3.2 Oxygen deficiency. 32
B.3.3 Emergency situations created by hazardous substances . 33
Annex C (informative) Protection factors . 34
C.1 General. 34
C.2 Using protection factors. 34
Annex D (informative) Suitability factors . 37
D.1 General. 37
D.2 Environmental factors . 37
D.2.1 Oxygen deficiency. 37
D.2.2 Oxygen enrichment. 37
D.2.3 Asphyxiants. 37
D.2.4 Contaminant levels immediately dangerous to life or health . 38
D.2.5 Potentially corrosive atmospheres. 38
D.2.6 Potentially explosive atmospheres. 38
D.2.7 Potentially permeating contaminants. 39
D.2.8 Particulate contaminants (aerosols). 39
D.2.9 Gas and vapour contaminants . 39
D.2.10 Climatic extremes. 40
D.3 Task/job factors impacting on the wearer. 40
D.3.1 Work rate . 40
D.3.2 Visibility . 41
D.3.3 Mobility . 41
D.3.4 Communication . 41
D.3.5 Thermal stress. 42
D.3.6 Duration of wear. 42
D.3.7 Tools used . 42
D.4 Wearer factors. 43
D.4.1 Medical fitness . 43
D.4.2 Facial characteristics. 43
D.4.3 Spectacles . 44
D.4.4 Contact lenses. 44
D.4.5 Non PPE accessories. 44
D.4.6 Interaction with other PPE. 44
D.5 Legal factors. 45
D.5.1 European Product Directives . 45
D.5.2 European Standards . 45
Annex E (informative) Assessing the fit of tight fitting facepiece. 46
E.1 General. 46
E.2 Fit checking . 46
E.2.1 General. 46
E.2.2 Negative pressure fit check. 46
E.2.3 Positive pressure fit check. 46
E.3 Fit test methods . 46
E.3.1 Qualitative fit testing. 46
E.3.2 Quantitative fit testing . 47
Annex F (informative) Respiratory protection passport . 48
Bibliography. 49
Foreword
This European Standard (EN 529:2005) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 79 "Respiratory
protective devices", the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by March 2006, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at
the latest by March 2006.
This European Standard supersedes CR 529:1993.
Users of this European Standard, prepared in the field of application of Article 118A of the EC Treaty, should be
aware that European Standards have no formal legal relationship with Directives which may have been made
under Article 118A of the Treaty. In addition, national legislation in the Member States may contain more
stringent requirements than the minimum requirements of a Directive based on Article 118A. Information on the
relationship between the national legislation implementing Directives based on Article 118A and this European
Standard may be given in a national foreword of the national standard implementing this European Standard.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
and United Kingdom.
Introduction
Hazardous substances such as dusts, fibres, fumes, vapours, gases, micro-organisms and radioactive
particulates and gases encountered at work can cause significant damage to health or, in extreme cases, can
lead to death. This frequently occurs by the inhalation of harmful levels of hazardous substances that are
present in the workplace air. Besides the inhalation exposure dermal exposure to hazardous substances can
also lead to local skin damage, and sensitisation, as well as systemic effects.
Similarly exposure to an oxygen deficient atmosphere can lead to death.
Exposure (via all routes - inhalation, dermal and ingestion) to hazardous substances at work should be
eliminated or alternative substances which are less hazardous used. Where elimination is not practicable
adequate protective measures should be put in place so that exposures are reduced to a minimum.
The use of suitable protective measures at source should be the first choice for minimising the exposure. Such
measures protect everyone in the workplace, whereas a respiratory protective device only protects the person
who wears it. If adequate protective measures at source or any other administrative measures are not
reasonably practicable or found to be inadequate for controlling inhalation exposure then an adequate and
suitable respiratory protective device should be used.
Respiratory protective devices are designed to be worn in hazardous environments and should provide wearers
with an adequate supply of breathable air or gas. Respiratory protective devices are considered to be at the
bottom of the hierarchy of protective measures and should only be used after an acceptable case for their use
has been established by way of an appropriate risk assessment.
Fatalities and serious accidents can occur if there is a failure to select and use a respiratory protective device
suited to the substances, the wearer, the task and the environment in which the device is used. The failure to
maintain the device in good working condition can also lead to similar consequences. These problems should
be avoided by implementing a suitably designed respiratory protective device programme.
1 Scope
This European Standard provides guidance on the best practice for establishing and implementing a suitable
respiratory protective device programme. It is published to provide a Europe-wide baseline for the selection,
use, care and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. It provides guidelines for preparing national
guidance in this area. The guidance contained in this European Standard is not intended to be exhaustive, but
highlights important aspects to which attention should be given. The recommendations in this European
Standard will help to comply with national legislation on this subject where it exists, or with European legislation.
Respiratory protective devices used exclusively in diving and at increased or reduced atmospheric pressures
are not covered by this guidance.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this European Standard. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document
(including any amendments) applies.
EN 132:1998, Respiratory protective devices – Definitions of terms and pictograms
EN 134:1998, Respiratory protective devices – Nomenclature of components
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this European Standard, the terms and definitions given in EN 132:1998 and EN 134:1998
and the following apply.
3.1
atmosphere immediately dangerous to life or health
atmosphere in which the concentrations of hazardous substances, including asphyxiants, or the oxygen levels
present create one or more of the following conditions:
immediate threat to life;
could cause delayed threat to life;
would cause immediate acute health effects;
would prevent the respiratory protective device wearer from an unaided escape to safety in case of the
device malfunctioning or failing to operate correctly
3.2
assigned protection factor (APF)
level of respiratory protection that can realistically be expected to be achieved in the workplace by 95 % of
adequately trained and supervised wearers using a properly functioning and correctly fitted respiratory
th
protective device and is based on the 5 percentile of the Workplace Protection Factor (WPF) data
3.3
breathing zone
space outside the facepiece extending 0,3 m in radius in front of the respiratory protective device wearer’s face
and centred on the mid-point of a line joining the ears
3.4
competent person
person with suitable and sufficient experience and with practical and theoretical knowledge of the elements of
respiratory protective device programme for which that person is responsible
3.5
emergency breathing facility
facility, as specified by the respiratory protective device manufacturer, coming into operation when the normally
operating respiratory protective device is not functioning. The facility provides an adequate level of protection
for a period to enable the device wearer to exit the work area, unassisted, to a place of safety
3.6
nominal protection factor
number derived from the maximum percentage of total inward leakage permitted in relevant European
Standards for a given class of respiratory protective device. The relationship between nominal protection factor
and total inward leakage can be expressed as follows:
nominal protection factor =
permitted maximum percentage total inward leakage
3.7
maximum allowed occupational exposure limit
limit of the time weighted average concentration of hazardous substances in the air within the breathing zone of
a worker in relationship to a specified reference period
3.8
specified reference period
specified time for the purposes of time-weighting the exposure concentration as stated for the occupational
exposure limit value of hazardous substances. The specified reference period for the long-term limit value is
normally 8 h and for the short-term limit value is normally 15 min
3.9
peak inhalation rate
maximum instantaneous volume flow rate which occurs during an inhalation cycle of a respiratory protective
device wearer
3.10
respiratory protective device passport
document for recording the details of initial and refresher training provided to a respiratory protective device
wearer
3.11
workplace protection factor
ratio between the breathing zone (see 3.3) concentration (outside the facepiece) of a chosen hazardous
substance and its concentration inside the facepiece (suitable sampler being placed as near as possible to the
mouth of respiratory protective device wearer) of a correctly functioning respiratory protective device when
correctly worn and used in the work place. The workplace protection factor may be expressed as:
concentration within the breathing zone (outside the facepiece)
workplace protection factor =
concentration inside the facepiece
3.12
work rate
physiological load (strain) imposed on an individual respiratory protective device wearer due to his work rate
can be defined in terms of the maximal oxygen uptake rate in l/min. The rate of oxygen uptake due to work rate
can be categorised into light, moderate, heavy and very heavy metabolic rates (watts)
NOTE Metabolic rate may be calculated using the international standard method (see EN ISO 8996).
4 Classification
4.1 General classification
There are two distinct types of respiratory protective devices:
a) Filtering devices: These purify the ambient air to be breathed using filters able to remove contaminants in
the air.
b) Breathing apparatus: These supply the wearer with breathable air (e.g. compressed air), or breathable gas,
(e.g. compressed oxygen) from an uncontaminated source.
Details of different types of devices are given in Annex A.
4.2 Main components
4.2.1 General
A respiratory protective device consists of two main components, a facepiece and filter(s) or a facepiece and a
means of supplying uncontaminated breathable air or gas.
4.2.2 Facepieces
The facepiece directs the uncontaminated breathable air or gas to the wearer’s nose and mouth area. Filtering
devices and breathing apparatus are available with a range of different facepieces but there are some important
limitations.
Tight-fitting facepieces (filtering facepieces, quarter masks, half masks and full face masks) rely heavily on
a good seal between the mask and the wearer’s face. Full face masks, half masks and quarter masks may
be used for both types of devices as described in 4.1.
Loose-fitting facepieces (e.g. hoods, helmets, visors, blouses, suits) rely on enough air being provided to
prevent contaminants leaking into the facepiece as the wearer breathes and moves about. They are only
used on powered filtering devices or with suitable breathing apparatus. In other words, loose-fitting
facepieces are not suitable for devices which rely on the breathing action of the wearer to draw air. These
include unpowered filtering devices and some breathing apparatus.
Mouthpieces are used with certain devices. They make any form of verbal communication impossible. They
are used in conjunction with a nose clip.
4.2.3 Filters
Filtering devices should have the correct type of filter(s) matched to the substance(s) from which the wearer
needs protection. The filters can only protect against limited concentration ranges of contaminants as specified
by the manufacturers. The filter can be for protection against particles (particle filters), gases/vapours (gas
filters) and for protection against particles and gases/vapours (combined filters). Further details are given in A.2.
4.2.4 Breathable air or gas supply source for breathing apparatus
A source (e.g. chemical oxygen generator or compressed air line) or a vessel (e.g. a gas cylinder) which is
capable of supplying uncontaminated breathable air or gas to a breathing apparatus. The quality of the
compressed air for breathing apparatus should be in accordance with EN 12021. Further details are given in
A.4.5.
5 Programme process
5.1 Employers and self-employed persons responsibilities
5.1.1 Programme policy
The employer and self-employed persons have legal responsibilities for the correct selection, maintenance and
issue of respiratory protective devices and the management of their correct use in the workplace. Therefore,
they should define and document a suitable policy for a respiratory protective device programme including the
objectives for the programme.
The policy should be relevant to the needs of the organisation and adequate for the health and safety risks
involved. The policy should be understood at all levels in the organisation.
When developing the policy the employer should involve the device wearers and their representatives.
NOTE The responsibilities of the employer are detailed in the Directive 89/656/EEC.
5.1.2 Provision of respiratory protective devices
There is no charge to the employee when a respiratory protective device is provided.
5.1.3 Organisation
The people tasked with the responsibility, authority, implementation and running of an effective respiratory
protective device programme should be able to demonstrate the relevant competency.
5.1.4 Resources
The employer should identify and make available the necessary resources for the implementation and running
of an effective programme including the need for supervision, training and developing the relevant competency.
5.1.5 Management review
The employer should review the programme at defined intervals or when necessary to ensure the continued
effectiveness of the programme and to monitor the progress of improvement objectives.
In any event a review should take place annually. An audit schedule relevant to the programme should also be
put in place to review the effectiveness of implementation at all levels within the employer’s responsibilities.
5.1.6 Training
The employer should ensure that the programme supervisors, the wearers and others involved in the
maintenance of the devices receive suitable training. Refresher training should be provided as necessary. In
any event this should take place at least annually unless otherwise decided by individual risk assessments.
5.1.7 Supervision
The employer should ensure that the devices are used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and
that no respiratory protective device is modified.
5.2 Employees responsibilities
5.2.1 Wearers
Individuals involved in a respiratory protective device programme should always follow procedures and systems
laid down by the programme and be responsible for the delegated responsibilities.
Individuals who are provided with and required to wear respiratory protective devices or any other personal
protective equipment which includes respiratory devices should use the devices in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions including the pre-use checks and the training provided by the employer. They
should make known to their supervisor any problems encountered during wear or use.
5.2.2 Competent persons
Individuals nominated as competent persons should co-operate with their employer to ensure that they have the
relevant knowledge, experience and training to undertake respiratory protective device related tasks.
5.3 Manufacturers’ responsibilities
Manufacturers or their appointed representatives are responsible for CE-marking (see 9.3.5) the respiratory
protective devices before the devices are supplied to users.
Respiratory protective device manufacturers and suppliers should ensure that the information they provide with
their devices is accurate, reflects the current knowledge and assists the employers/users in making the correct
choice. The duty to select and use adequate and suitable respiratory protective devices remains with the
employer.
6 Risk assessment process
The exposure to hazardous substances at work should be eliminated. If this is not reasonably practicable then
the exposure should be minimised by other means at source before using respiratory protective devices.
The employer should carry out an adequate and suitable risk assessment wherever hazardous substances are
in use or there are foreseeable risks to health and safety.
The risk assessment should take into account at least the hazard, its nature, the sources contributing to the
exposure, the degree of exposure, the working environment, the tasks and the people carrying out the tasks,
the effectiveness of preventive measures taken or to be taken as well as other foreseeable consequences of
failure of protective measures.
When deciding the protective measures, the steps given in Table 1 should be evaluated in the order given and
put in place as appropriate. It should be noted that in many workplace situations a combination of the steps
described in Table 1 will be needed to minimise exposure. In addition, administrative, including supervisory,
systems should be in place to ensure that the protective measures remain adequate at all times.
The risk assessment should be recorded and be kept up to date through a process of regular review or
whenever the assessment is found to be no longer valid. A review should take place at least annually.
Table 1 — Protective measures
1 The use of alternative substances which are less hazardous.
2 The substitution of a given substance in a form that is less hazardous.
3 The substitution of a process by an alternative process likely to generate lower airborne
concentrations of substances.
4 Total or partially enclosed process and handling systems.
5 Partial enclosure with local exhaust ventilation.
6 Local exhaust ventilation.
7 General ventilation.
8 Reducing period of exposure.
9 The introduction of appropriate working practices and systems of work (e.g. to close and store
containers securely when not in use).
10 Use of monitoring and warning devices to give a clear indication when unsafe airborne
concentrations are present.
11 Good housekeeping.
12 The use of adequate and suitable personal protective equipment including respiratory protective
device.
7 Criteria for using respiratory protective devices
Respiratory protective devices should only be used when one or more of the following conditions are met:
a) other protective measures are in place, yet an unacceptable inhalation exposure risk still exists;
b) exposures exceed the relevant occupational exposure limit value and protective measures are in the
process of being installed;
c) emergency work which cannot wait until other protective measures at source are put in place;
d) exposures are infrequent and of short duration and permanent installation of other protective measures are
not practicable;
e) respiratory protective device is needed for escape in the event of an emergency;
f) emergency rescue work by trained personnel.
However, there are situations where adequate control measures may be in place and the employer may decide
to provide suitable respiratory protective devices as an extra precaution.
8 Risk assessment for respiratory protective device use
8.1 Elements of respiratory protective device programme
Where a respiratory protective device is needed for minimising the exposure it should only be used when a
suitable respiratory protective device programme is in place. The elements of a respiratory protective device
programme will include the following:
a) hazard appreciation and identification;
b) risk assessment to comply with legal requirements;
c) selection of adequate and suitable devices;
d) training for users and others involved in the programme;
e) maintenance of the devices in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions;
f) record keeping which will include programme policy, management systems implementing the programme,
risk assessments, adequacy and suitability assessment, training details and maintenance records;
g) auditing of the programme;
h) management systems for implementing the programme.
8.2 Factors to consider in risk assessment
The risk assessment for minimising the inhalation exposure by using respiratory protective device should
consider at least the following:
a) Will the atmosphere contain sufficient oxygen during the whole period of work/exposure?
b) Which hazardous substances including asphyxiants are likely to be present? What are their physical and
chemical properties?
c) Which forms do the air contaminants take – dust, fibre, mist, fume, micro-organism, gas, vapour or
radioactive particulates or gases?
d) What health effects can these substances have on the body?
e) What are the foreseeable worst-case concentrations in the atmosphere?
f) What are the relevant occupational exposure limit values or the safe exposure levels?
g) What other hazards (e.g. potential for splashing, sparks, fire, flammability) are associated with the
job/process, which will influence the selection and use of a respiratory protective device?
9 Adequacy and suitability
9.1 General
The process of selecting a correct device should only be undertaken after an appropriate risk assessment has
been carried out. The next step in a selection process should be the determination of adequacy. Once the
adequacy has been established suitability should be determined for the correct selection of the device.
9.2 Adequacy
9.2.1 General
A respiratory protective device is considered adequate if it has the capacity to reduce the wearer’s exposure to
a hazard to acceptable levels (e.g. to comply with occupational exposure
...
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2006
2SUHPD]DYDURYDQMHGLKDO±3ULSRURþLOD]DL]ELURXSRUDERQHJRLQY]GUåHYDQMH±
1DYRGLOR
Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection, use, care and
maintenance - Guidance document
Atemschutzgeräte - Empfehlungen für Auswahl, Einsatz, Pflege und Instandhaltung -
Leitfaden
Appareils de protection respiratoire - Recommandations pour le choix, l'utilisation,
l'entretien et la maintenance - Guide
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 529:2005
ICS:
13.340.30 Varovalne dihalne naprave Respiratory protective
devices
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 529
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
October 2005
ICS 13.340.30 Supersedes CR 529:1993
English Version
Respiratory protective devices - Recommendations for selection,
use, care and maintenance - Guidance document
Appareils de protection respiratoire - Recommandations Atemschutzgeräte - Empfehlungen für Auswahl, Einsatz,
pour le choix, l'utilisation, l'entretien et la maintenance - Pflege und Instandhaltung - Leitfaden
Guide
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 22 July 2005.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official
versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia,
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels
© 2005 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 529:2005: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents
Page
Foreword . 5
Introduction. 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references. 7
3 Terms and definitions. 7
4 Classification. 9
4.1 General classification . 9
4.2 Main components. 9
4.2.1 General. 9
4.2.2 Facepieces. 9
4.2.3 Filters . 9
4.2.4 Breathable air or gas supply source for breathing apparatus. 9
5 Programme process. 10
5.1 Employers and self-employed persons responsibilities. 10
5.1.1 Programme policy. 10
5.1.2 Provision of respiratory protective devices. 10
5.1.3 Organisation. 10
5.1.4 Resources. 10
5.1.5 Management review . 10
5.1.6 Training. 10
5.1.7 Supervision. 10
5.2 Employees responsibilities . 11
5.2.1 Wearers. 11
5.2.2 Competent persons. 11
5.3 Manufacturers’ responsibilities . 11
6 Risk assessment process . 11
7 Criteria for using respiratory protective devices. 12
8 Risk assessment for respiratory protective device use. 12
8.1 Elements of respiratory protective device programme. 12
8.2 Factors to consider in risk assessment . 13
9 Adequacy and suitability . 13
9.1 General. 13
9.2 Adequacy. 13
9.2.1 General. 13
9.2.2 Assessing atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health . 13
9.2.3 Assessing the minimum required protection factor. 14
9.3 Suitability. 14
9.3.1 General. 14
9.3.2 Assessing suitability for the workplace environment. 14
9.3.3 Assessing suitability for the task . 15
9.3.4 Assessing suitability for the wearer . 15
9.3.5 CE-Marking . 15
10 Use . 16
11 Operating information, instruction and training . 16
11.1 General. 16
11.2 Employers. 16
11.3 Wearers. 16
11.4 Supervisors . 17
12 Maintenance . 17
13 Storage. 17
13.1 Employers duties . 17
13.2 Employees’ duties. 17
14 Record keeping . 17
Annex A (informative) Types and components of respiratory protective devices . 19
A.1 Facepieces. 19
A.1.1 Half mask without inhalation valves and with separable filters to protect against gases or
gases and particles and particles only (EN 1827). 19
A.1.2 Half masks and quarter masks (EN 140) . 19
A.1.3 Full face Masks (EN 136) . 19
A.2 Filters . 20
A.2.1 General. 20
A.2.2 Particle filters (EN 143, EN 12941 and EN 12942) . 20
A.2.3 Gas filters and combined filters (EN 14387, EN 12941 and EN 12942). 20
A.2.4 Service life of filters . 21
A.3 Filtering devices. 22
A.3.1 General. 22
A.3.2 Negative pressure devices . 22
A.3.3 Assisted filtering devices . 23
A.4 Breathing apparatus . 24
A.4.1 Fresh air hose breathing apparatus. 24
A.4.2 Compressed air line breathing apparatus (EN 14593-1, EN 14593-2, EN 14594, EN 1835 and
EN 12419). 25
A.4.3 Self-contained breathing apparatus . 26
A.4.4 Ventilated protective suits (EN 943-1 and EN 1073-1) . 27
A.4.5 Compressed air for breathing apparatus (EN 12021) . 27
Escape devices . 30
Annex B (informative) Atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health . 32
B.1 General. 32
B.2 Conditions . 32
B.3 Situations likely to present atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health. 32
B.3.1 Confined spaces . 32
B.3.2 Oxygen deficiency. 32
B.3.3 Emergency situations created by hazardous substances . 33
Annex C (informative) Protection factors . 34
C.1 General. 34
C.2 Using protection factors. 34
Annex D (informative) Suitability factors . 37
D.1 General. 37
D.2 Environmental factors . 37
D.2.1 Oxygen deficiency. 37
D.2.2 Oxygen enrichment. 37
D.2.3 Asphyxiants. 37
D.2.4 Contaminant levels immediately dangerous to life or health . 38
D.2.5 Potentially corrosive atmospheres. 38
D.2.6 Potentially explosive atmospheres. 38
D.2.7 Potentially permeating contaminants. 39
D.2.8 Particulate contaminants (aerosols). 39
D.2.9 Gas and vapour contaminants . 39
D.2.10 Climatic extremes. 40
D.3 Task/job factors impacting on the wearer. 40
D.3.1 Work rate . 40
D.3.2 Visibility . 41
D.3.3 Mobility . 41
D.3.4 Communication . 41
D.3.5 Thermal stress. 42
D.3.6 Duration of wear. 42
D.3.7 Tools used . 42
D.4 Wearer factors. 43
D.4.1 Medical fitness . 43
D.4.2 Facial characteristics. 43
D.4.3 Spectacles . 44
D.4.4 Contact lenses. 44
D.4.5 Non PPE accessories. 44
D.4.6 Interaction with other PPE. 44
D.5 Legal factors. 45
D.5.1 European Product Directives . 45
D.5.2 European Standards . 45
Annex E (informative) Assessing the fit of tight fitting facepiece. 46
E.1 General. 46
E.2 Fit checking . 46
E.2.1 General. 46
E.2.2 Negative pressure fit check. 46
E.2.3 Positive pressure fit check. 46
E.3 Fit test methods . 46
E.3.1 Qualitative fit testing. 46
E.3.2 Quantitative fit testing . 47
Annex F (informative) Respiratory protection passport . 48
Bibliography. 49
Foreword
This European Standard (EN 529:2005) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 79 "Respiratory
protective devices", the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by March 2006, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at
the latest by March 2006.
This European Standard supersedes CR 529:1993.
Users of this European Standard, prepared in the field of application of Article 118A of the EC Treaty, should be
aware that European Standards have no formal legal relationship with Directives which may have been made
under Article 118A of the Treaty. In addition, national legislation in the Member States may contain more
stringent requirements than the minimum requirements of a Directive based on Article 118A. Information on the
relationship between the national legislation implementing Directives based on Article 118A and this European
Standard may be given in a national foreword of the national standard implementing this European Standard.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
and United Kingdom.
Introduction
Hazardous substances such as dusts, fibres, fumes, vapours, gases, micro-organisms and radioactive
particulates and gases encountered at work can cause significant damage to health or, in extreme cases, can
lead to death. This frequently occurs by the inhalation of harmful levels of hazardous substances that are
present in the workplace air. Besides the inhalation exposure dermal exposure to hazardous substances can
also lead to local skin damage, and sensitisation, as well as systemic effects.
Similarly exposure to an oxygen deficient atmosphere can lead to death.
Exposure (via all routes - inhalation, dermal and ingestion) to hazardous substances at work should be
eliminated or alternative substances which are less hazardous used. Where elimination is not practicable
adequate protective measures should be put in place so that exposures are reduced to a minimum.
The use of suitable protective measures at source should be the first choice for minimising the exposure. Such
measures protect everyone in the workplace, whereas a respiratory protective device only protects the person
who wears it. If adequate protective measures at source or any other administrative measures are not
reasonably practicable or found to be inadequate for controlling inhalation exposure then an adequate and
suitable respiratory protective device should be used.
Respiratory protective devices are designed to be worn in hazardous environments and should provide wearers
with an adequate supply of breathable air or gas. Respiratory protective devices are considered to be at the
bottom of the hierarchy of protective measures and should only be used after an acceptable case for their use
has been established by way of an appropriate risk assessment.
Fatalities and serious accidents can occur if there is a failure to select and use a respiratory protective device
suited to the substances, the wearer, the task and the environment in which the device is used. The failure to
maintain the device in good working condition can also lead to similar consequences. These problems should
be avoided by implementing a suitably designed respiratory protective device programme.
1 Scope
This European Standard provides guidance on the best practice for establishing and implementing a suitable
respiratory protective device programme. It is published to provide a Europe-wide baseline for the selection,
use, care and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. It provides guidelines for preparing national
guidance in this area. The guidance contained in this European Standard is not intended to be exhaustive, but
highlights important aspects to which attention should be given. The recommendations in this European
Standard will help to comply with national legislation on this subject where it exists, or with European legislation.
Respiratory protective devices used exclusively in diving and at increased or reduced atmospheric pressures
are not covered by this guidance.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this European Standard. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document
(including any amendments) applies.
EN 132:1998, Respiratory protective devices – Definitions of terms and pictograms
EN 134:1998, Respiratory protective devices – Nomenclature of components
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this European Standard, the terms and definitions given in EN 132:1998 and EN 134:1998
and the following apply.
3.1
atmosphere immediately dangerous to life or health
atmosphere in which the concentrations of hazardous substances, including asphyxiants, or the oxygen levels
present create one or more of the following conditions:
immediate threat to life;
could cause delayed threat to life;
would cause immediate acute health effects;
would prevent the respiratory protective device wearer from an unaided escape to safety in case of the
device malfunctioning or failing to operate correctly
3.2
assigned protection factor (APF)
level of respiratory protection that can realistically be expected to be achieved in the workplace by 95 % of
adequately trained and supervised wearers using a properly functioning and correctly fitted respiratory
th
protective device and is based on the 5 percentile of the Workplace Protection Factor (WPF) data
3.3
breathing zone
space outside the facepiece extending 0,3 m in radius in front of the respiratory protective device wearer’s face
and centred on the mid-point of a line joining the ears
3.4
competent person
person with suitable and sufficient experience and with practical and theoretical knowledge of the elements of
respiratory protective device programme for which that person is responsible
3.5
emergency breathing facility
facility, as specified by the respiratory protective device manufacturer, coming into operation when the normally
operating respiratory protective device is not functioning. The facility provides an adequate level of protection
for a period to enable the device wearer to exit the work area, unassisted, to a place of safety
3.6
nominal protection factor
number derived from the maximum percentage of total inward leakage permitted in relevant European
Standards for a given class of respiratory protective device. The relationship between nominal protection factor
and total inward leakage can be expressed as follows:
nominal protection factor =
permitted maximum percentage total inward leakage
3.7
maximum allowed occupational exposure limit
limit of the time weighted average concentration of hazardous substances in the air within the breathing zone of
a worker in relationship to a specified reference period
3.8
specified reference period
specified time for the purposes of time-weighting the exposure concentration as stated for the occupational
exposure limit value of hazardous substances. The specified reference period for the long-term limit value is
normally 8 h and for the short-term limit value is normally 15 min
3.9
peak inhalation rate
maximum instantaneous volume flow rate which occurs during an inhalation cycle of a respiratory protective
device wearer
3.10
respiratory protective device passport
document for recording the details of initial and refresher training provided to a respiratory protective device
wearer
3.11
workplace protection factor
ratio between the breathing zone (see 3.3) concentration (outside the facepiece) of a chosen hazardous
substance and its concentration inside the facepiece (suitable sampler being placed as near as possible to the
mouth of respiratory protective device wearer) of a correctly functioning respiratory protective device when
correctly worn and used in the work place. The workplace protection factor may be expressed as:
concentration within the breathing zone (outside the facepiece)
workplace protection factor =
concentration inside the facepiece
3.12
work rate
physiological load (strain) imposed on an individual respiratory protective device wearer due to his work rate
can be defined in terms of the maximal oxygen uptake rate in l/min. The rate of oxygen uptake due to work rate
can be categorised into light, moderate, heavy and very heavy metabolic rates (watts)
NOTE Metabolic rate may be calculated using the international standard method (see EN ISO 8996).
4 Classification
4.1 General classification
There are two distinct types of respiratory protective devices:
a) Filtering devices: These purify the ambient air to be breathed using filters able to remove contaminants in
the air.
b) Breathing apparatus: These supply the wearer with breathable air (e.g. compressed air), or breathable gas,
(e.g. compressed oxygen) from an uncontaminated source.
Details of different types of devices are given in Annex A.
4.2 Main components
4.2.1 General
A respiratory protective device consists of two main components, a facepiece and filter(s) or a facepiece and a
means of supplying uncontaminated breathable air or gas.
4.2.2 Facepieces
The facepiece directs the uncontaminated breathable air or gas to the wearer’s nose and mouth area. Filtering
devices and breathing apparatus are available with a range of different facepieces but there are some important
limitations.
Tight-fitting facepieces (filtering facepieces, quarter masks, half masks and full face masks) rely heavily on
a good seal between the mask and the wearer’s face. Full face masks, half masks and quarter masks may
be used for both types of devices as described in 4.1.
Loose-fitting facepieces (e.g. hoods, helmets, visors, blouses, suits) rely on enough air being provided to
prevent contaminants leaking into the facepiece as the wearer breathes and moves about. They are only
used on powered filtering devices or with suitable breathing apparatus. In other words, loose-fitting
facepieces are not suitable for devices which rely on the breathing action of the wearer to draw air. These
include unpowered filtering devices and some breathing apparatus.
Mouthpieces are used with certain devices. They make any form of verbal communication impossible. They
are used in conjunction with a nose clip.
4.2.3 Filters
Filtering devices should have the correct type of filter(s) matched to the substance(s) from which the wearer
needs protection. The filters can only protect against limited concentration ranges of contaminants as specified
by the manufacturers. The filter can be for protection against particles (particle filters), gases/vapours (gas
filters) and for protection against particles and gases/vapours (combined filters). Further details are given in A.2.
4.2.4 Breathable air or gas supply source for breathing apparatus
A source (e.g. chemical oxygen generator or compressed air line) or a vessel (e.g. a gas cylinder) which is
capable of supplying uncontaminated breathable air or gas to a breathing apparatus. The quality of the
compressed air for breathing apparatus should be in accordance with EN 12021. Further details are given in
A.4.5.
5 Programme process
5.1 Employers and self-employed persons responsibilities
5.1.1 Programme policy
The employer and self-employed persons have legal responsibilities for the correct selection, maintenance and
issue of respiratory protective devices and the management of their correct use in the workplace. Therefore,
they should define and document a suitable policy for a respiratory protective device programme including the
objectives for the programme.
The policy should be relevant to the needs of the organisation and adequate for the health and safety risks
involved. The policy should be understood at all levels in the organisation.
When developing the policy the employer should involve the device wearers and their representatives.
NOTE The responsibilities of the employer are detailed in the Directive 89/656/EEC.
5.1.2 Provision of respiratory protective devices
There is no charge to the employee when a respiratory protective device is provided.
5.1.3 Organisation
The people tasked with the responsibility, authority, implementation and running of an effective respiratory
protective device programme should be able to demonstrate the relevant competency.
5.1.4 Resources
The employer should identify and make available the necessary resources for the implementation and running
of an effective programme including the need for supervision, training and developing the relevant competency.
5.1.5 Management review
The employer should review the programme at defined intervals or when necessary to ensure the continued
effectiveness of the programme and to monitor the progress of improvement objectives.
In any event a review should take place annually. An audit schedule relevant to the programme should also be
put in place to review the effectiveness of implementation at all levels within the employer’s responsibilities.
5.1.6 Training
The employer should ensure that the programme supervisors, the wearers and others involved in the
maintenance of the devices receive suitable training. Refresher training should be provided as necessary. In
any event this should take place at least annually unless otherwise decided by individual risk assessments.
5.1.7 Supervision
The employer should ensure that the devices are used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and
that no respiratory protective device is modified.
5.2 Employees responsibilities
5.2.1 Wearers
Individuals involved in a respiratory protective device programme should always follow procedures and systems
laid down by the programme and be responsible for the delegated responsibilities.
Individuals who are provided with and required to wear respiratory protective devices or any other personal
protective equipment which includes respiratory devices should use the devices in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions including the pre-use checks and the training provided by the employer. They
should make known to their supervisor any problems encountered during wear or use.
5.2.2 Competent persons
Individuals nominated as competent persons should co-operate with their employer to ensure that they have the
relevant knowledge, experience and training to undertake respiratory protective device related tasks.
5.3 Manufacturers’ responsibilities
Manufacturers or their appointed representatives are responsible for CE-marking (see 9.3.5) the respiratory
protective devices before the devices are supplied to users.
Respiratory protective device manufacturers and suppliers should ensure that the information they provide with
their devices is accurate, reflects the current knowledge and assists the employers/users in making the correct
choice. The duty to select and use adequate and suitable respiratory protective devices remains with the
employer.
6 Risk assessment process
The exposure to hazardous substances at work should be eliminated. If this is not reasonably practicable then
the exposure should be minimised by other means at source before using respiratory protective devices.
The employer should carry out an adequate and suitable risk assessment wherever hazardous substances are
in use or there are foreseeable risks to health and safety.
The risk assessment should take into account at least the hazard, its nature, the sources contributing to the
exposure, the degree of exposure, the working environment, the tasks and the people carrying out the tasks,
the effectiveness of preventive measures taken or to be taken as well as other foreseeable consequences of
failure of protective measures.
When deciding the protective measures, the steps given in Table 1 should be evaluated in the order given and
put in place as appropriate. It should be noted that in many workplace situations a combination of the steps
described in Table 1 will be needed to minimise exposure. In addition, administrative, including supervisory,
systems should be in place to ensure that the protective measures remain adequate at all times.
The risk assessment should be recorded and be kept up to date through a process of regular review or
whenever the assessment is found to be no longer valid. A review should take place at least annually.
Table 1 — Protective measures
1 The use of alternative substances which are less hazardous.
2 The substitution of a given substance in a form that is less hazardous.
3 The substitution of a process by an alternative process likely to generate lower airborne
concentrations of substances.
4 Total or partially enclosed process and handling systems.
5 Partial enclosure with local exhaust ventilation.
6 Local exhaust ventilation.
7 General ventilation.
8 Reducing period of exposure.
9 The introduction of appropriate working practices and systems of work (e.g. to close and store
containers securely when not in use).
10 Use of monitoring and warning devices to give a clear indication when unsafe airborne
concentrations are present.
11 Good housekeeping.
12 The use of adequate and suitable personal protective equipment including respiratory protective
device.
7 Criteria for using respiratory protective devices
Respiratory protective devices should only be used when one or more of the following conditions are met:
a) other protective measures are in place, yet an unacceptable inhalation exposure risk still exists;
b) exposures exceed the relevant occupational exposure limit value and protective measures are in the
process of being installed;
c) emergency work which cannot wait until other protective measures at source are put in place;
d) exposures are infrequent and of short duration and permanent installation of other protective measures are
not practicable;
e) respiratory protective device is needed for escape in the event of an emergency;
f) emergency rescue work by trained personnel.
However, there are situations where adequate control measures may be in place and the employer may decide
to provide suitable respiratory protective devices as an extra precaution.
8 Risk assessment for respiratory protective device use
8.1 Elements of respiratory protective device programme
Where a respiratory protective device is needed for minimising the exposure it should only be used when a
suitable respiratory protective device programme is in place. The elements of a respiratory protective device
programme will include the following:
a) hazard appreciation and identification;
b) risk assessment to comply with legal requirements;
c) selection of adequate and suitable devices;
d) training for users and others involved in the programme;
e) maintenance of the devices in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions;
f) record keeping which will include programme policy, management systems implementing the programme,
risk assessments, adequacy and suitability assessment, training details and maintenance records;
g) auditing of the programme;
h) management systems for implementing the programme.
8.2 Factors to consider in risk assessment
The risk assessment for minimising the inhalation exposure by using respiratory protective device should
consider at least the following:
a) Will the atmosphere contain sufficient oxygen during the whole period of work/exposure?
b) Which hazardous substances including asphyxiants are likely to be present? What are their physical and
chemical properties?
c) Which forms do the air contaminants take – dust, fibre, mist, fume, micro-organism, gas, vapour or
radioactive particulates or gases?
d) What health effects can these substances have on the body?
e) What are the foreseeable worst-case concentrations in the atmosphere?
f) What are the relevant occupational exposure limit values or the safe exposure levels?
g) What other hazards (e.g. potential for splashing, sparks, fire, flammability) are associated with the
job/process, which will influence the selection and use of a respiratory protective device?
9 Adequacy and suitability
9.1 General
The process of selecting a correct device should only be undertaken after an appropriate risk assessment has
been carried out. The next step in a selection process should be the determination of adequacy. Once the
adequacy has been established suitability should be determined for the correct selection of the device.
9.2 Adequacy
9.2.1 General
A respiratory protective device is considered adequate if it has the capacity to reduce the wearer’s exposure to
a hazard to acceptable levels (e.g. to comply with occupational exposure l
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