There are many different types of respirators, images of which are shown on this slide. If you see a respirator in a laboratory, you need to ask who is using it and why. Make notes so that you can discuss with the EHS staff member responsible for administering the UNL Respiratory Protection Program (RPP). This staff member should be able to tell you if we have conducted an exposure assessment and whether the users are authorized to wear respiratory protection by being currently enrolled in UNL’s Respiratory Protection Program.
This checklist item would be cited if persons in the laboratory are using a respirator but are not authorized to do so. When citing this checklist item, clearly state that the EHS staff person responsible for the RPP will follow-up with them.
If you find a respirator in a laboratory, you should also make note of its condition, state of cleanliness, and storage. Disposable respirators are for single use only and are not to be reused. Discuss deficiencies with the EHS staff member in charge of the RPP. If the user is authorized to use a respirator, and the respirator is not properly cared for, then cite this checklist item and state that additional follow-up will occur by the EHS staff person responsible for the RPP. If the user is not authorized and the RPP is not properly cared for, then clearly state both conditions of deficiency in your citation.