Respiratory Protection Responsibilities

In order for the Respiratory Protection Program to be succesful, all affected individuals must clearly understand and take an active role in meeting their responsibilities. This section of the Program outlines the responsibilities of the EHS Respiratory Protection Program Administrator, Organizational Units/Academic Departments, Supervisors, respirator users, the Contract Physician and Contractors.

Program Administrator

The EHS Respiratory Program Administrator will:

• Write, evaluate and update the written Respiratory Protection Program;
• Consult with respirator users and supervisors on technical issues related to respiratory protection;
• Coordinate with EHS staff and the Contract Physician to implement the administration of the medical surveillance program requirements;
• Provide assistance and regulatory guidance to Academic Departments, Organizational Units, Supervisors and Respirator Users upon request;

Organizational Unit/Academic Department/Supervisors

Organizational Units and Supervisors, in consultation with EHS, are responsible for:

Identifying respiratory hazards that may affect their employees and students;

Contacting EHS to request an evaluaton of potential exposure risks; [RHA Form]

Assuring that all employees using respirators participate in the Repiratory Protection Program maintained by EHS;

Assuring that respirators are used and maintained in accordance with this program..

Respirator User

Respirator users are responsible for wearing respiratory protection when required and as instructed during fit testing and/or training. Respirator users must also:

• Complete the respirator medical evaluation questionnaire, attend classroom or on-line training and fit-testing sessions annually;
• Care and maintain their respirator as instructed and store it in a clean and sanitary location;
• Use only the brand and type of respirator for which the user was trained and fit tested;
• Inform their supervisor if the respirator no longer fits properly or if there are any problems related to the use of the respirator;
• Inform their supervisor of any respiratory hazard that they feel is not adequately addressed in the workplace;

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