Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards: Choosing the Right Type of Respirator
Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards: Choosing the Right Type of Respirator
Today’s podcast will cover week two of four on ‘Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards’.
You can find the show notes to each episode, links to the information mentioned on the podcast, the social media platforms we’re on, and anything else related to the podcast at WarehouseSafetyTips.com.
If you’re a seasoned Podcast Listener, this podcast will be different from most you listen to. It’s based on exactly what the name implies – Warehouse Safety Tips. And since the people in that industry are busy – we know time is money so each episode will be as short and to the point as possible.
And now that all that is out of the way – let’s get to the Podcast!
Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards: Choosing the Right Type of Respirator
Airborne hazards in a warehouse aren’t always obvious. You might not see or smell them, but they’re there. Dust from pallet handling. Vapors from cleaning supplies. Fumes from battery charging areas. Each hazard is different, and so is the protection you need against it.
One of the top priorities of a solid Safety Culture is making sure people understand that not all respirators are the same. The type of respirator you choose must match the hazard you’re facing. Using the wrong one is almost the same as using none at all.
Here are a few ways to make sure you’re using the proper protection:
Match the respirator to the hazard.
Paper dust masks may keep out nuisance dust, but they won’t protect you from chemical vapors. A cartridge respirator that handles solvents won’t block welding fumes. Always confirm that the respirator you’re issued is designed for the exact task you’re doing.
Know the difference between air-purifying and supplied-air models.
Air-purifying respirators filter the air around you. They work when the air has oxygen but contains contaminants. Supplied-air respirators bring in clean air from another source. Those are used when the surrounding air isn’t safe to breathe at all.
Pay attention to filter ratings.
You’ve heard terms like N95 or P100. Those labels matter. They tell you how much filtration you’re getting. N95 filters block at least 95 percent of airborne particles, while P100 filters block nearly all of them. Choose the one that meets the level of hazard.
Only use a Self-contained Breathing Apparatus with proper training.
Self-contained breathing apparatus, or SCBAs, provide complete independence from the surrounding air. They’re life-saving in the right situations, but they’re also complex. No one should ever use one without complete training and certification.
Never share or modify respirators.
Respirators are personal protective equipment, just like earplugs or gloves. Sharing one spreads germs and may cause a bad fit. Modifying one, such as taping cracks or adding parts, can make it unsafe. If it’s damaged, replace it.
As always, these are potential tips. Please be sure to follow the rules and regulations of your specific facility.
Respirators protect one of your most vital organs: your lungs. But they only work if they’re the right kind, in good condition, and used the way they were meant to be. Warehouse air can look fine but still carry invisible hazards. Choosing the right respirator is a decision that keeps you healthy not just today, but years down the road.
Today’s podcast marks a special milestone – Episode 300! We’ve been able to bring you tips, tricks, and nuggets to keep you, your staff, and facilities safe!
Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.
Until we meet next time – have a great week, and STAY SAFE!
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If you visit WarehouseSafetyTips.com – you’ll find the Show Notes for this episode.
Thank you for listening to Warehouse Safety Tips – and have a SAFE day!
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