NCJ Number
194851
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 29 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2002 Pages: 64-66,68,70
Date Published
2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations concerning respirators.
Abstract
Respirators are used to control diseases caused by otherwise breathing air contaminated with harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors. OSHA has developed regulations for respirators, and suggestions on how to choose, fit, maintain, and store a respirator. According to OSHA, each department is responsible to provide this protection to its officers, along with training and medical evaluations at no cost to the officers. A respirator will provide adequate protection only when fitted and used properly. Size, style, and comfort are important considerations. OSHA also has regulations concerning respirator inspection, cleaning, and storage. The article includes a detailed description of respirator cleaning. After completing the original training program, officers are required to revisit the training within 12 months. Officers’ safety is a large concern and educating them on how to use their respirator correctly can increase their safety. OSHA has a number of programs to help departments comply with regulations and improve workplace health and safety.