Respirator Fit Test why do I need 1

Worksafe BC Regulations 8.32 says,

If a worker is or might be exposed in a workplace to an air contaminant that exceeds

(a) an 8-hour TWA limit, ceiling limit, or short-term exposure limit set by ACGIH for the air contaminant,

(b) a limit that is otherwise determined by the Board under section 5.48 for the air contaminant, or

(c) a limit set by section 5.49 for the air contaminant, the employer must provide an appropriate respirator and ensure that the worker uses an appropriate respirator in accordance with section 8.34.

(For example, Crystalline Silica rating is .025 mg in a cubic meter of air over an 8 hour period) 

Regulation 8.39 Pre Testing Worker Requirements

Pre Testing Worker Requirements are as follows. A worker must be clean-shaven, yes all workers, no exceptions, 8.39 of the regulations. It must also be stated that religious concerns can not play a part in this circumstance. If for some reason a worker's religion conflicts with the obligations under the regulations, the worker must have a conversation with their employer about alternative duties that can accommodate their religion. In addition, a worker must not have any virus such as a cold or flu during the test. Mucus or phlegm in the lungs might cause issues with testing. The Respirator Fit Testing Services will point out all these items. 

 

 

Building Materials Contain Deadly Substances

Prior to conducting any home renovations or remodeling, have the materials in your home tested for harmful substances. Early construction used a lot of deadly materials in home construction. In fact, if you hire a reputable renovation company, they will not commence remodeling until a full round of testing procedures has been conducted. So, what's being tested and where are these hidden hazards.  For more information read the pamphlet at WorkSafe BC  Asbestos Hazards When Renovating Older Homes 

What contains Asbestos

1. Drywall  joint compound, wall plaster, and wallboard  
2. 9-inch tiles or sheet vinyl  flooring 
3. Older window glazing
4. Some older roofing and siding materials 
5. Heating duct Insulation and Vermiculite Insulation
6. Older house wire insulation
7. Popcorn Textured Ceilings and Ceiling Tiles
8. Electrical Insulators and light fixtures

Lead in Construction

Lead is such a deadly substance that it is argued even today that Lead was one of the contributing factors that helped destroy the Roman Empire. In modern times lead can still be found on construction site and general purpose everyday items.  Below is a list showing where lead can be found. 

1. acoustic dampening baffles
2. additive in brass and other alloys
3. batteries
4. cable and wire casing
5. cast iron pipes, gaskets, and connections
6. solder (plumbing and electrical)
7. indoor firing ranges
8. decorative pieces
9. flashing
10. glazing
11. lead glass, stained glass
12. late 19th and early 20th century tinted mortar for stone cladding
13. paint and surface coatings
14. radiation shielding (bricks or sheeting)
15. structural steel primer

PCBs in your Old House

1. Pre 1979 Electrical Devices: (Lighting Ballasts, Capacitors, Motors, Pumps)
2. Some Molded Rubber Parts
3. Caulking, Sealants, Coatings, Adhesives
4. Some gaskets made from Fabric or Felt

Mercury

1. Fluorescent Lamps, Tubs, and Bulbs
2. Thermostats, Switches, Load Meters, Relays  

Molds and Biohazards 

1. Older homes that contained moisture could develop Mold issues 
2. Crawl Spaces could contain smaller animals in a state of decomposition and mold

House History

One thing you might want to check for is the past use of spaces on the property.  For example, if the prior or original owners used the garage as a home-based business in automotive repair, Hazardous substances can be lurking. Brake pads from older cars and trucks contain a high quantity of Asbestos. This is just one example.  So, is your question answered. Respirator Fit Test Why do I need 1. In addition, never just put on any old mask, consult with Respirator Fit Testing Services. A Respirator Fit Testing Services will explain exactly what's required 

Crystalline Silica

Furthermore, Crystalline Silica, when reacting to your body can produce a deadly disease called Silicosis. The result from Crystalline Silica and this disease is a death that’s painful, and long. Just one more in the realm of Hazardous Building Materials. Not to mention, in the demolition of old buildings there are other hazards. Certainly, saying no to fit testing your respirator is like committing suicide, and that's no exaggeration.

Cost

Using a smoke generator for a qualitative respirator fit test, a North 7700 half mask, and a set of brand new P100 HEPA filters will only cost you $70 to $90 plus tax. A small price to pay for protecting your life. Yet, other respirators can be high in price. Full Face and Supplied Air Respirators Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) can run up to $1000 or more for a respirator. With that being said, the cost is cheaper than breathing in Crystalline Silica.  

 

Respirator Fit Testing Services

If you have any further questions on Hazardous Building Materials, or you're still asking Why do I need a Respirator Fit Test, and wish to discuss other Hazardous Building Materials, feel free to contact us at (604) 226-5933 0r email us at [email protected] . The Respirator Fit Testing Services can provide a life-saving aspect to your career. 

 

This is what you’ll find in “Breathing in Death” 

 

See about Respirator Fit Testing Here