Your respirator is an important device that keeps you safe from hazardous particulates in the air. Ensuring it is clean and well-maintained is important for your wellbeing.
1. Inspect your respirator thoroughly
Examine the following aspects of the respirator.
Facepiece:
- Review for damage or excess dirt
- Carefully review seal for cracks or tears
Straps:
- Pliable and stretchy (bounce back if pulled)
Valves:
- Soft and pliable, lying flat
Gaskets:
- Soft and pliable, lying flat (not crispy or folded)
Full Face Mask - Lenses:
- Check for anything that could impair your vision
If damage is found, tag and report to supervisor for part/respirator replacement.
2. Remove components
Including:
- cartridges
- filters
- gaskets/diaphragms
- hose
- valve assemblies
Inspect for signs of overuse, expiry dates, and damage. Seek replacement components if necessary.
3. Wash face piece
Clean interior and exterior of the face piece, by either of the following methods:
- Use a pre-packaged respirator cleaning wipe
- Must be an approved respirator cleaning product
- Do NOT use solvents or alcohol wipes
- Wipe interior of respirator first, then exterior
- Immerse in water with approved cleaning solution
- Water temperature cannot exceed 120F
- Scrub with soft brush until clean
- Rinse in fresh, warm water
4. Disinfect, if necessary
Soak respirator face piece in approved disinfectant for necessary amount of time.
5. Reassemble respirator
Ensure respirator is dry and reassemble components as required:
- cartridges
- gaskets/diaphragms
- hose
- valve assemblies
6. Test and store
Test seals as follows:
Negative fit check:
- Place hands firmly over both filter cartridges
- Inhale
Positive fit check:
- Cover exhaust value
- Exhale
When inhaling and exhaling try to feel for air movement (leaks) around the seals/sides of the respirator. If there is air movement readjust mask and try again.
When satisfied with respirator's cleanliness and performance, store in proper bag and location.
