Hazards
Oxygen-deficient atmospheres, dusts, gases and vapours
Options – respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
-Some respirators rely on filtering contaminants from workplace air. These include simple filtering facepieces and respirators and power-assisted respirators
-Make sure it fits properly, eg for tight-fitting respirators (filtering facepieces, half and full masks)
-There are also types of breathing apparatus which give an independent supply of breathable air, eg fresh-air hose, compressed airline and self-contained breathing apparatus
Note
-The right type of respirator filter must be used as each is effective for only a limited range of substances
-Filters have only a limited life. Where there is a shortage of oxygen or any danger of losing consciousness due to exposure to high levels of harmful fumes, only use breathing apparatus – never use a filtering cartridge
-You will need to use breathing apparatus in a confined space or if there is a chance of an oxygen deficiency in the work area
-If you are using respiratory protective equipment