Personal Protective Equipment, Respiratory Protection, and Medical Surveillance
What this domain tests
PPE questions test respirator selection by work class, fit testing, medical evaluation, and the triggers for medical surveillance. Expect "which respirator is minimum" and "when is a medical exam required" items.
Core rules and concepts
- OSHA asbestos rules require respiratory protection when engineering controls do not keep exposure below the PEL. Assigned protection factors and work class drive selection. Class I work generally requires a full-facepiece or powered air-purifying respirator with HEPA filters; lower classes may use a half-mask HEPA respirator if exposure allows, but the employer must justify the choice.
- Fit testing is annual for tight-fitting respirators, and a user seal check is done each time the respirator is worn. Facial hair that interferes with the seal is prohibited. Medical evaluation is required before fit testing and before respirator use.
- Medical surveillance is triggered for employees exposed above the PEL or excursion limit for 30 or more days per year. It includes a medical history, physical examination, and other tests required by the standard, with periodic exams and exit exams.
- PPE includes disposable coveralls, hood, boot covers, gloves, and eye protection as needed. Don PPE in the clean room; doff in the dirty room; bag disposable PPE as asbestos waste.
- Cartridges and filters must be changed according to the manufacturer and site procedure; a loaded HEPA filter is not "good until it clogs completely."
Worked example
A worker is assigned to Class I removal and is issued a half-mask HEPA respirator. That is a problem: Class I work requires a higher level of protection, such as a full-facepiece or PAPR with HEPA. Before the worker wears it, the employer must confirm medical clearance, fit test, and training. If the worker has a beard, the tight-fitting respirator cannot be used until the facial hair is removed or a loose-fitting PAPR is selected.
Traps that cost marks
Do not confuse fit testing with medical clearance. Do not let a worker "just try" a respirator before medical evaluation. Do not assume a half-mask is enough for every class. Do not reuse disposable PPE outside the work area.