Use Of Respirators

Question 1

Before using respirators, a risk assessment is to be carried out and that includes;

Answer 1

Nature and hazards involved

Is deployment inside or outside

Are confined spaces involved

What is required task

If fire was involved, is the fire extinguished, area cool and ventilated

Likely deterioration

Travel distance

Is DIM required

Scientific advice required

Question 2

Areas of operation for respirators are;

Answer 2

Where cutting, sweeping, bagging and shovelling is taking place

Grass/ woodland fire

Disrobing, bagging and cleaning PPE

Incidents involving airborne particulates such as RTCs

Handling fibrous materials such as asbestos

Hazardous powders

Fire investigation

Decon at hazmat incidents where advised by SA or HAZMAT officer

Question 3

When using respirators in a grass/woodland fire, what 2 other considerations are required

Answer 3

Working upwind
Wearing gas monitoring equipment

Question 4

List the 4 situations where a respirator with P3 filter can’t be used

Answer 4

Oxygen deficient atmosphere
Toxic gases involved
Flammable atmosphere
Confined spaces