ANSI Respiratory Protection PDF

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ANSI @
288.2-1992
Revision of
ANSI 288.2-1980
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American National Standard
for Respiratory Protection
Secretariat
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Approved August 6,1992

American National Standards Institute, inc.
ANSI ZBB m
Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI

American that the requirements for due process, consensus, and other criteria for
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that all views and objections be considered, and that a concerted effort be
made toward their resolution.
The use of American National Standards is completely voluntary: their
existence does notin any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved
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will in no circumstances give an interpretation of any American National
Standard. Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority to issue an
interpretation of an American National Standard in the name of the American
National Standards Institute. Requests for interpretations should be ad-
dressed to the secretariat or sponsor whose name appearson the title page
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of this standard.
CAUTIONNOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or
withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards
Institute require that action be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or
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Published by
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Copyright O 1992 by American National Standards Institute

All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any

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without prior written permission of the publisher.
Printed in the United States of America
APS1 M293160
O324350 0508420 638
Contents Page
I’oreword .................................................................................................. ii
‘I Scope andpurpose ............................................................................ 1
:2 .........................................................................
Normative references 1
:3 Definitions ......................................................................................... 2
14 Respirator programrequirements ....................................................... 4
5 Program administration ...................................................................... 7
16 ...............................................
Written standard operating procedures 8
7 Selection, limitation, and useof respirators ......................................... 9
8 Training........................................................................................... 13
9 Respirator fitting tests ...................................................................... 14
10 Maintenance. inspection. and storage ............................................... 16
Tables
1 Assigned protection factors ................................................................ 6
2 Combined effect of altitude and reduced percentof oxygen ...............12
3 Periodic air sampling guidancefor purchased breathing gas..............17
4 Periodic air sampling guidancefor compression................................ 18
Annexes
A Supplemental information ................................................................ 19
B Future research needs ..................................................................... 33
C Bibliography .................................................................................... 34
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Foreword (This foreword is not part of American National Standard 288.2-1 992.)
The purpose of this standard is to help establish, implement, and administer
an effective respiratory protection program. Changes have been made in
this revision reflecting the currentstate of knowledge. The clause on the
classification, description, and limitations of respirators has been combined
with the clause on the selection of respirators to clarify the decision-making
process by which a respirator isselected. A decision matrix for respirator
selection has also been added to this clause to draw all the elements of res-
pirator selection together. Respirator protection factors have been revised in
this standard to reflect the current state of knowledge. A new definition has
been developed for “oxygen deficiency- immediately dangerous to life or
health,” The clauses for fit testing, breathing air supplies, and written proce-
dureshecords have been modified.. A requirement for fit testing of atmo-
sphere-supplying positive-pressure respirators has been added to this stan-
dard. Owing to the importance of the values of the assigned protection fac-
tors and the proliferation of newrespirator designs, a new subcommittee has
been formed to consider an extension of this material and to provide the
rationale for the choice of each APF value.
The first version of ANSI 288.2 was approved August 11, 1969 and was a
revision of the respiratory protection portion of American National Standard
safety code for head, eye, and respiratory protection, ANSI 22.1-1959.
The second revision of this American National Standard was approved May
22, 1980 and was entitled American National Standard practices for respi-
ratory protection, ANSI 288.2-1980.
Suggestions for the improvement of this standard will be welcome. They
should be sent to Robert A. da Roza, Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory, P.O. Box 5505, L-386, Livermore, CA 94550.
This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by
Accredited Standards Committee on Respiratory Protection, 288.
Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply that all
committee members voted for its approval. At the time it approved this
standard, the 288 Committee had the following members:
Robert A. da Roza, Chair
James S . Johnson, Vice-Chair
Organizations Represented Name of Representative
American Conferenceof Government Industrial Hygienists ....Darre1 Douglas
Edward Hyatt (Alt.)
American Gas Association ................................................. (Representation Vacant)
Phil S. Runge (Alt,)
American Occupational Medicine Association .................... Philip Harber
American Industrial Hygiene Association ............................ Doane E. Lucio
American Iron and Steel Institute....................................... Jack Masaitis
Peter Hernandez (Alt.)
American Petroleum Institute ............................................. Christopher E. Williams
Gerry M. Walker (Alt.)
American Welding Society ................................................. Carol Dupraz
Marvin E. Kennebeck (AR.)
Brotherhood Boilermakers ................................................. Perry A. Day
Edison Electric Institute ..................................................... Joseph S. Peri
Matthew C. Mingoia (Alt.)
Electronics Industries ........................................................ F. X. Worden
Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company ................................. J. Holthouser
GPU Nuclear ..................................................................... Earl F. Gee, Jr.
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A N S I 288.2 92 0724350 0508422 400
OrganizationRepresented Name of Representative

Health Physics Society ...................................................... David Steffes
1 Timothy P. Lynch (Alt.)
Industrial Safety Equipment Association ............................ Richard D. Grunberg
Frank E. Wilcher, Jr. (Alt.)
International Association of Fire Chiefs.............................. Garry Briese
International Association of Fire Fighters ........................... Richard M. Duffy
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International Union of Bricklayers ...................................... Albert R. Couillard

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory ........................... Robert A. da Roza
James S. Johnson (Alt.)
Los Alamos National Laboratory ........................................ Bruce Reinert
Alan Hack (Alt.)
Motor Vehicles Manufacturers Association ......................... Sarunas S. Mingela
Robert J. Ajemian (Alt.)
Libardo Latorre (Alt.)
National Fire Protection Association .................................. Bruce W. Teele
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health ..........Nancy Bollinger
Rhone-Poulenc, Inc. .......................................................... Gerald L. Cooper
U.S. Bureau of Mines ........................................................ J. G . Kovac
U.S. Coast Guard .............................................................. K. Wahle
U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission ..................... Colin B. Church
U S . Department of the Army ............................................. Stephan C. Graham
Debra S. McGlothlin (Alt.)
U.S. Department of Energy ................................................ Paul F. Wambach
U.S. Department of Labor .................................................. Ching-tsen Bien
Chappell D. Pierce (Alt.)
U.S.General Services Administration ................................ Dennis Davis
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ................................ James E. Wigginton
Individual Members
Darre1A. Bevis
Howard H. Fawcett
Earle P. Shoub
The 288 Committee acknowledges the contributions of the following individ-

uals in the development of this standard:
Donald Campbell
(National Institute of
Occupational Safety and Health)
Kenneth W. Crase
(Health Physics Society)
Stan Morrow
(U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission)
Grant Snider
(U.S. General Services Administration)
Subcommittee 288.2 on Practices for Respiratory Protection, which revised

this standard, had the following members:
Thomas Nelson. Co-Chair Darell Bevis Alan Hack
Don Wilmes, Cokhair Ching-tsen Bien Lynette Hendricks
Joe Bigler Robert Martin
Nancy Bollinger Warren Myers
Donald Burd Jay Parker
Howard Cohen Jeff Prather
Zenora Gordon Bruce Reinert
Earl Gee, Jr. Miriam Vaughn
Stephen Graham Jim Wigginton
John Hale
*Participated as a nonvoting NIOSH advisor.
iii
ANSI 2 8 8 . 2 9 2 0724350 0508423 347
AMERICAN NATIONAL
ANSI STANDARD 288.2-1 992
American National Standard

for Respiratory Protection
1 Scope and purpose advisory in nature where the word “should” is
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used.
1.1 Scope
1.4 Exceptions
This standard sets forth accepted practices Users of this standard should be aware that
for respirator users; provides information and regulatory agencies may have requirements
guidance on the proper selection, use, and that are different from this standard.
care of respirators; and contains requirements
for establishing and regulating respirator pro-
grams. The standard covers the use of respi-
rators to protect persons against the inhala- 2 Normativereferences
tion of harmful air contaminants and against
oxygen-deficient atmospheres in the work- The following standards contain provisions
place. The following subjects are not covered which, through reference in this text, constitute
by this standard: provisions of this American National Standard.
At the time of publication, the editions indicated
- underwater breathing devices; were valid. All standards are subject to revi-
sion, and parties to agreements based on this
- aircraft oxygen systems; American National Standard are encouraged to
- use of respirators under military combat investigate the possibility of applying the most
conditions; and recent editions of the standards indicated
below.
- medical inhalators and resuscitators.
ANSI 288.6-1984, Respiratory protection -
1.2 Purpose Respirator use - Physical qualifications for
personnel
The purpose of this standard is to provide
information and guidance on the proper selec- ANSI 288.10, Respirator fit test methods l)
tion and use of respirators that will help safe- ANSIICGA C-4-1990, Method of marking
guard the life and health of users. This stan- portable compressed gas containers to identi-
dard is written for all persons concerned with fy the materialcontained
respiratory protection, but especially for those
primarily responsible for establishing and ANSUCGA G-7.1-1989, Commodity specifica-
administrating an acceptable respirator pro- tion for air
gram.Thestandardcontainsrequirements CGA G-7-1988, Compressed air for human
recommended ffor use by enforcement authori- respiration 2)
ties in establishing regulations or codes on
respiratory protection. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Part
173, General requirements forshipping and
1.3 “Shall” and “should” packaging, and Part 178, Shippingcontainer
specifications 3,
The provisions of this standard are mandatory
in nature when?the word “shall” is used and United States Pharmacopoeia, 1990. 4,
’) This standard is currently under development. Contact the secretariat for more recent information.
*) Available from the Compressed Gas Association, 1725 Jeff Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202-3269.
3, Available from the Superintendent of Documents, US Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
4, Available from Mack Printing Company, Easton, PA.
0724350 0508424 2 8 3
ANSI 288.2-1 992
3 Definitions 3.13 confinedspace: An enclosed space

that has the following characteristics:
3.1 abrasive blasting respirator: A respira- - Its primary function is something other
tor designed to protect the wearer from inhala- than human occupancy;
tion of, impact of, and abrasion by materials
used or generated abrasive
in blasting. - It has restricted entry and exit;
- It may contain potential or known haz-
3.2 aerodynamic diameter: The diameter of ards.
a unit density sphere having the same terminal
settling velocity as the particle in question. Examples of confined spaces include, but are
not limited to:
3.3 aerosol: Particles, solid or liquid, sus-
pended in air: - tanks:
3.4 airlinerespirator: An atmosphere-sup- - silos;
plying respirator in which the respirable gas is
not designed to be carried by the wearer (for- - vessels;
merly called supplied air respirators). - pits:
3.5 alr-purifyingresplrator: A respirator in - sewers;
which ambient air is passed through an air-
purifying element that removes the contami- - pipelines;
nant(s). Air is passed through theair-purifying
element by means of the breathing action or
- tank cars;
by a blower. - boilers;
3.6 approved: See certified. - septic tanks;
3.7 assigned protection factor (APF): The - utility vaults.
expected workplace level of respiratory pro-
Tanks and other structures under construction
tection that would be provided by a properly
may not be considered confined spaces until
functioning respirator or a class of respirators
completely closed. Restricted entry and exit
to properly fittedand trained users.
means physical impediment of the body, e.g.,
3.8 atmosphere-supplying respirator: A use of the hands or contortion of the body to
class of respirators that supply a respirable enter into or exit from the confined space.
atmosphere, independent of the workplace
3.14 contaminant: A harmful, irritating, or
atmosphere.
nuisance airborne material.
3.9 bioassay: A determination of thecon-
3.15 continuous flow respirator: An atmo-
centration of a substance in biological fluids
sphere-supplying respirator that provides a
and tissue by analysis of urine, feces, blood,
continuous flow of respirable gas to the respi-
bone, tissue, etc.
ratory inlet covering.
3.10 canlster/cartrldge: A containerwith a
3.16 demandrespirator: Anatmosphere-
filter, sorbent, or catalyst, or combination of
supplying respirator that admits respirable gas
these items, which removes specific contami-
to the facepiece only when a negative pressure
nants from the air passed through the container.
is created insidethe facepiece by inhalation.
3.1 1 ceiling concentration: The concentra-
3.17 dlsposable respirator: A respirator for
tion of an airborne substance that shall not be
exceeded during any part of the working which maintenance is not intended and that is
designed to be discardedafterexcessive
exposure.
resistance, sorbent exhaustion, physical dam-
3.12 certlfled: Evaluatedand listed as per- age, or end-of-service-life renders it unsuit-
missiblebytheNationalInstitutefor able for use. Examples of this type of respira-
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the tor are a disposable half-mask respirator or a
MineSafetyandHealthAdministration disposable escape-only self-contained breath-
(MSHA), or the Bureau of Mines (BM). ing apparatus (SCBA).
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A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 m 0724350 0508425 1 1 T
ANSI 288.2-1 992
3.18
dust: Anaerosolconsisting of 3.32hood: A respiratory inlet covering that
mechanically prolduced solid particles derived completely covers the head and neck and
from the breaking up of larger particles. Dusts may cover portions of the shoulders.
generally have a larger particle size when
compared to fumes. 3.33immediatelydangeroustolife or
health (IDLH): Any atmospherethatposes
3.19 end-of-service-life indicator: A sys- an immediate hazard to life or poses immedi-
tem that warns the user of the approach of the ate irreversible debilitating effects on health.
end of adequate respiratory protection.
3.34 loose-fittlng faceplece: A respiratory
3.20 escape-only resplrator: A respirator inlet covering that is designed to form a par-
intended only for use during emergency tial seal with the face, does not cover the
egress from a hazardousatmosphere. neck and shoulders, and may or may not offer
3.21 exposure limit: The maximum allow- head protection against impact and penetra-
able concentration of a contaminant in the air tion.
to which an individual may be exposed. These
3.35massmedianaerodynamicdiameter
may be time-weighted averages, short-term (MMAD): A point in an aerodynamic particle
limits, or ceiling limits. size distribution where half of the mass lies in
3.22 filter: A component used in respirators particles with a diameter less than the MMAD
to remove solicl or liquid aerosols from the and half in particles with diameters greater
inspired air. than the MMAD.
3.23 fit check: A testconducted by the 3.36 mist: An aerosolcomposed of liquid
wearer to deterrnine if the respirator is proper- particles.
ly seated to the face.
3.37mouthpiece and nose-clampassem-
3.24 fit factor: A quantitative measure of bly: A respiratory inlet covering that is held in
the fit of a particular respirator to a particular the wearer's mouth and must always be used
individual. in conjunction with a noseclamp.
3.25 fit test: Theuse of achallenge agent 3.38negatlve-pressure respirator: A res-
to evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individ- pirator in which the air pressure inside the
ual. respiratory inlet covering is negative during
3.26 fume: !Solid aerosolsformed by con- inhalation with respect to the ambient air
densation of a gas or vapor. Fumes generally pressure.
have a smaller particle size when compared
to dusts.
3.39 occupational health professional: An
individual whom, by experience and educa-
3.27 gas: A fluid that has neither indepen- tion, is competent at recognizing, evaluating,
dent shape nor' volume and tends to expand and controlling health hazards in the work-
indefinitely. place.
3.28hazardousatmosphere: An atmo- 3.40poorwarnlng properties: Asub-
sphere that contains a contaminant(s) in stance whose odor, taste, or irritation effects
excess of the exposure limit or that is oxygen are not detectable or not persistent at concen-
deficient. trations at or below the exposure limit.
3.29 hazard ratio: A number obtained by 3.41 positive-pressure respirator: A respi-
dividing the coricentration of a contaminant by rator in which the pressure inside the respira-
its exposure lirniit. tory inlet covering is normally positive with
3.30helmet: Ahood that offers head pro- respect to ambient air pressure.
tection against impact and penetration. 3.42powered air-purifying respirator: An
3.31high-efficiencyfilter: A filterthat air-purifying respirator that uses a blower to
removes from the air 99.97% or more of the force the ambient atmosphere through air-
aerosols having a diameterof 0.3 Pm. purifying elements to the inlet covering.
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A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 072VL50 0508426 056
ANSI 288.2-1 992
3.43 pressure-demandrespirator: A posi- 3.56 vapor: Thegaseousphase of matter

tive pressure atmosphere-supplyingrespirator that normally exists in a liquid or solid state at
that admits respirable gas to the facepiece room temperature.
when the positive pressure is reduced inside
the facepiece by inhalation.
3.44 qualitative fit test: A pass/fail fit test 4 Respirator program requirements
that relies on the subject's sensory response
to detect the challenge agent. 4.1 Purpose
3.45 quantitative flt test: A fittestthat This subclause establishes requirements for
uses an instrument to measure the challenge an occupational health program for the use of
agent inside and outside the respirator. respirators. The followingrequirements are
supplemented by recommended practices in
3.46 radionucilde: An atom that sponta-
subsequent clauses of this standard.
neously emits particles, gamma, or x-radia-
tion. 4.2 Permissible practice
3.47 r e s p i r a t o r : A personal
device In the control of those occupational diseases
designed to protect the wearer from the caused by breathing air contaminated with
inhalation of hazardous atmospheres. potentially harmful dusts, fumes, sprays,
mists, fogs, smokes, vapors, or gases, the pri-
3.48 respiratoryInletcovering: That por-
mary objective shall be to minimize workplace
tion of a respirator that connects the wearer's
contamination. This shall be accomplished as
respiratory tract to an air-purifying device or
far as feasible by accepted engineering con-
respirable gassource,or both. It may be a
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trol measures (for example, enclosure or con-

facepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or mouth- finement of the operation, general and local
piece/nose clamp.
ventilation, and substitution of less toxic
3.49 sanltlzatlon: The removal of contami- materials). When effective engineeringcon-
nants and the inhibiting of the action of the trols are not feasible, or while they are being
agents that cause infection or disease. implemented or evaluated, appropriate respi-
rators shall be used pursuant to the following
3.50 self-containedbreathingapparatus
requirements.
(SCBA): An atmosphere-supplying respirator
in which the respirable gas source is designed 4.3 Employer responsibility
to be carried by the wearer.
4.3.1 Respiratorsshallbeprovided by the
3.51 service life: The period of timethat a employer when such equipment is necessary
respirator provides adequate protection to the to protect the employee.
wearer.
4.3.2 Theemployer shall providethe respi-
3.52 sorbent:A material that is contained rators that are applicable and suitable for the
in a cartridge or canister and removes specific purpose intended.
gases and vapors from the inhaledair.
4.3.3 Theemployer shall be responsible for
3.53 suit: A respiratoryinletcovering the establishment and maintenance of a respi-
designed to cover the entire body. This term ratory protection program that shall include
does not include protective clothing that only the requirements outlined in 4.5.
provides skin protection.
4.3.4 A respirator wearer shall be permitted
3.54 tight-flttlngfaceplece: A respiratory by the employer to leave the hazardous area
inlet covering that is designed to form a com- for any respirator-related cause. Reasons
plete seal with the face. A half-facepiece may include, but are not limited to, the follow-
(includes quarter masks, disposable masks, ing:
and masks with elastomeric facepieces) cov-
ers the nose and mouth; a full facepiece cov- - failure of the respirator to provide ade-
ers the nose, mouth, and eyes. quate protection;
3.55 tlme-welghtedaverage (TWA): The - malfunction of the respirator;

average concentration of a contaminant in air - detection of leakage of air contaminant
during a specific time period. into the respirator;
4
A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 0724350 0508427 T 9 2 m
ANSI 288.2-1992
- increase in resistance of respirator dur- 4.5.2 Standard operatlng procedures

ing breathing;
Written standard operating procedures cover-
- severe discomfort in wearing the respira- ing the complete respirator program shall be
tor; established and implemented (clause 6 ) .
- illness of the respirator wearer, includ- 4.5.3 Physiologicalandpsychological
ing: sensation of dizziness, nausea, weak- limitations for respirator wearers
ness, breathinlg difficulty, coughing, sneez-
ing, vomiting, lever, and chills; A physician shall determine whether or not an
employee has any medical conditions that
- to wash his/her face and the respirator wouldprecludetheuse of respirators. The
facepiece to minimize skin irritation; physician shall follow the guidance in ANSI
- to change the air-purifying elements or 288.6 on the frequency and content of the
other components, whenever needed; examination.
- to take pelriodic breaks in an uncontami- The program administrator shall advise the
nated area. physician of the following conditions to aid in
the determination of the medical evaluation
4.3.5 Malfunctions of respiratory protective required:
equipmentshallbeinvestigatedbythe
employer to determine the cause and to a) types of respirators for normal and emer-
assurecorrectivemeasuresaretaken. gency use;
Suspected manufacturing defects should be b) typical work activities, environmental
reported to the manufacturer and the certify- conditions, frequency and duration of use;
ing agency.
c) hazards for which the respiratory equip-
4.4 Employee responsibility ment will be worn including the potential
4.4.1 The employee shall use theprovided exposures to reduced oxygen environments.
respiratory protection in accordance with
instructions and training received. 4.5.4Respirator selection
4.4.2Theemployeeshallguardagainst The selection of the proper type@) of respira-
damage to the respirator. tor@) shall be based upon
4.4.3 If a respirator malfunction occurs, the a) the nature of the hazardous operationor
employee shall immediately leave the contam- process;
inated area anld report the malfunction to a b) the type of respiratory hazard (including
responsible person de.signated by the employ- physical properties, oxygen deficiency,
er in the written standard operating proce- physiological effects onthe body, concentra-
dures. tion of toxic material or airborne radioactivity
4.4.4 Theemployeeshallreport to the level, established exposure limits for the
responsible person any change in his/her toxic materials, established permissible
medical status that may impact the employ- airborneconcentrationforradioactive
ee’s ability to wear a respirator safely. material, and established immediately dan-
gerous to life or health concentration for
4.5 Minimal acceptable respirator program toxic material);
4.5.1 Program adminlstratlon c) the location of the hazardous area in rela-
tion to the nearest area having respirable air;
The responsibility and authority for the respira-
tor program shall be assigned by the employer d) the period of time for which respiratory
to asingleperson.Theadministratorshall protection must be worn;
have knowledge of respiratory protection suffi- e) the activities of workers in the hazardous
cient to supervise the respirator program prop- area;
erly. The program administrator’s responsibili-
ties include the monitoring of the respiratory f) the physical characteristics and functional
hazards, maintaining records, and conducting capabilities and limitations of the various
program evaluations (clause 5 ) . types of respirators;
5
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ANSI 288.2-1 992
Table 1 - Assigned protection factors
I Respiratory
covering
inlet
Type
respirator
of I mask')
Half I Full facepiece
Air purifying 10 1O0
Atmosphere supplying
SCBA(demand)2) 10 1O0
Airline(demand) 10 1O0
Half Full Helmet/ Loose-fitting

Type of respirator mask face Hood faceplece
Powered air purifying 50 10003) I 000~)
Atmosphere supplying
airline 50 1O00 -
pressure demand
continuous flow 50 1O00 1O00
Self-contained
breathing apparatus
Pressure demand - 4) -
open/closed circuit
Includes 114 mask, disposable half masks, and half masks with elastomeric facepieces.
2, Demand SCBA shall not be used for emergency situations such as fire fighting.
3, Protection factors listed are for high-efficiency filters and sorbents (cartridges and canis-
ters). With dust filters, an assigned protection factor of 100 is to be used due to the limitations
of the filter.
4, Although positive-pressure respirators are currently regarded as providing the highest level
of respiratory protection, a limited number of recent simulated workplace studies concluded
that all users may not achieve protection factors of 10 000. Based on this limited data, a defini-
tive assigned protection factor could not be listed for positive-pressure SCBAs. For emergen-
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cy plannmg purposes where hazardous concentrations can be estimated, an assigned protec-
tion factor of no higher than 10 O00 should be used.
NOTE - Assigned protection factors are not applicable for escape respirators. For combina-
tion respirators, e.g., airline respirators equipped with an air-purifying filter, the mode of
operation in use will dictate the assigned protection factor to be applied.
g) respirator-assigned protectionfactors list- b) the engineering and administrative con-

ed in table 1 (clause 7). trols beingused and the need for respirators
to provide protection;
4.5.5 Training
c) the reason for selecting a particulartype
Each respirator wearer shall be given training
of respirator;
(and retraining), which shall include explana-
tions and discussions of d) the function, capabilities, and limitations
a) the respiratory hazard and the effect on of the selected respirator;
the wearer if the respiratoris not used prop- e) the method of donning therespirator and
erly; checking its fitand operation;
ANSI 2 8 8 . 2 72 m 0724150 0508429 8b5 m
ANSI 288.2-1 992
f) the proper ,wearingof the respirator; ty engineering department, the respirator pro-
gram shall be administered by a qualified per-
g) respirator maintenance, inspection, and
son responsible to the facility manager.
storage;
5.2 Qualiflcatlons
h) recognizing and handlingemergency sit-
uations; Respirator program administrators, in order to
exercise their responsibility, shall be knowl-
i) applicablegovernmentalregulations for
edgeable in respiratory protection. Adminis-
specific substances (clause 8 ) .
trators shall keep abreast of current issues/
4.5.6 Respiratorfit advances and regulations.
Each person shall be fit tested before being 5.3 Responsibilities
assigned a tighl-fitting respirator (clause 9).
Theadministrator'sresponsibilitiesshall
Each person using a tight-fitting respirator
include
shall conduct a fit check of the respirator by
appropriate means each time the respirator is - measuring,estimating, or reviewing
donned or adjusted (clauseA.6) in annex A. information on the concentrationof an air-
borne contaminant in the work area priorto
4.5.7 Maintenance,inspection,andstor-
respirator selection and periodically during
age respirator use to ensure that the propertype
Maintenance shall be carried out according to of respirator is being used;
the manufacturer's instructions and on a
schedule that ensures that each respirator
- selecting the appropriate type or classof
respirator that will provide adequate protec-
wearer is provided with a respirator that is
tion for each contaminant, present or antici-
clean, sanitary, and in good operating condi-
pated:
tion.Eachrespiratorshallbeinspectedby
the wearer prior to its use to ensure that it is - maintaining records and written proce-
in proper working condition. Respirators shall dures in a manner that documents the respi-
be stored in a convenient, clean, and sanitary rator program and allowsfor the evaluation
location (clause 1O ) . of the program's effectiveness;
4.5.8 Escape-only respirators - evaluating the respiratory protection pro-
gram's effectiveness.
Where escape-only respirators are provided
because of the potential for an emergency, The most comprehensive respiratory protec-
personnel assigned to the area shall be tion program is of little value if it is not main-
trained in their use. tained and implemented as designed. There-
fore, in addition to ongoing surveillance, the
Personnel not assigned to the work area and
program shall be periodically audited to
visitors shall be briefed in the use of these
ensure that (a) the program proceduresreflect
respirators. Other requirements such as med-
the requirements of current applicable regula-
ical approval for use and detailed training are
tions and industry accepted standards and (b)
not required for these people.
the program as implemented reflects the writ-
ten procedures.
To aid objectivity, the audit should be con-
5 Programadrninlstration ducted by a knowledgeable person not direct-
ly associated with the program, rather than
5.1 Description
the respiratory protection program administra-
An individual shall be assigned responsibility tor. An auditchecklistshouldbeprepared
and authority for administration of each respi- andupdatedasnecessary.Theauditpro-
rator program. It is preferable that the admin- gram should focus, as a minimum, on the fol-
istrator be inthe company's industrial hygiene, lowing areas:
health physics, or safety engineering depart-
ment. In plants or companies having no for-
- program administration;
mal industrial hygiene, health physics, or safe- - training;
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
- medical evaluation; 5 ) inspection;
- fit testing; 6) monitoring use:
- air sampling/classification of hazard: 7 ) monitoring hazards;
- selection and issuance; 8 ) selection;
- use; 9) company policies.
- equipment cleaning,maintenance, and b) Operating procedures for emergency
inspection; and rescue use: It is recognized that it is not
possible to foresee every emergency and
- breathing air supplies; rescue use of respirators for every kind of
- storage; operation. Nevertheless, a wide variety of
possible conditions requiring the emergency
- emergency preparedness;
or rescue use of respirators can be envi-
- special problems. sioned. An adequate emergency and rescue
respiratorresponsecapabilitycanbe
When applicable, medical surveillance, includ-
achieved through a serious effort to plan for
ing bioassay shall be carried out periodically
the worst foreseeable consequences of par-
to determine if respirator wearers are ade-
ticular malfunctions or mishaps.
quately protected. An occupational health pro-
fessional shall determine the requirements of The written procedures for the emergency
the medical surveillance program. and rescue uses of respirators shall be
Action shall be taken to correct any defects or developed in the following manner:
shortcomingsfoundduring the audit.Find- 1) An analysis of theemergencyand
ings shall be documented, including plans to rescue uses of respirators that may
correct problem areas and target dates for occur in each operation shall be made by
completion. careful consideration of materials, equip-
ment, work area, processes, and person-
nel involved;
6 Written standard operatingprocedures 2) Based upon the analysis, a determi-
nation should be made whether the res-
Written standard operating procedures for the pirators available can provide adequate
proper use of respirators in routine and emer- protection to allow workers to enter the
gency situations shall be establishedby the potentially hazardous environments.
employer. Copies of the procedures shall be There are situations where equipment
available for employees to read. The proce- limitations may preclude workers enter-
duresshallbeperiodicallyreviewedand ing an IDLH environment (for example,
~
revised by the employer as necessary. The potentially flammable or explosive envi-

procedures shall include the following ele- ronments);
ments: 3) Appropriate types of respirators shall
a) Operating procedures for routine use: be selected, and an adequate number
Written standard operating procedures shall shall be provided where they may be
cover a complete respirator program and needed for emergency or rescue use;
shall include information necessary forthe
4) Theserespiratorsshallbemain-
proper use of respirators, including, as a
tained,inspected,andstored so that
minimum:
they are readily accessible and opera-
1) training of wearers; tional when needed.
2) fit tests; The procedure shall be reviewed by a person
3) issuance; who is thoroughly familiar with the particular
process or operation. Consideration shall be
4) cleaning, storage, and maintenance; given to past occurrences requiring emergen-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
ANSI 288.2 % 2 0724350 0508433 433
ANSI 288.2-1 992
cy or rescue uses of respirators as well as physical exertion can cause the user to
conditions that resulted in such respirator deplete the air supply in a SCBA such that
applications. Thepossibleconsequences of service life is reduced by half or more.
equipment or power failures, uncontrolled
chemical reactions, fire, explosion, or human 7.2 Selection of respirators for routine use
error shall begivenconsideration. Potential
7.2.1 Approvedrespirators
hazards that may result in emergency or res-
cue use of respirators shall be identified. Approved or authorized respirators shall be
used. Any changeor modification, however
minor, may void the respirator approval and
7 Selection, limitation, and use of res- significantly affect the performance of the res-
pirators pirator. In the event that there is no approved
commercially available respirator that can do
7.1 Generalconsiderations the required task, the user may seek autho-
rization from the appropriate regulatory agen-
7.1.1 Worker activity
cy to use an unapproved device.
Worker activity and worker location in a haz-
7.2.2 Selection
ardous area shall be considered in selecting
the proper respirator (for example, whether Respirator selection involves reviewing each
the worker is in the hazardous area continu- operation to (a) determine what hazards may
ously or intermittently during the work shift be present (hazard determination) and (b)
and whether the work rate is light, medium, or select which type or class of respirators can
heavy). offer adequate protection.
7.1.2 Respirator use conditions 7.2.2.1 Hazard determination steps
The period of lime that a respirator must be The nature of the hazard shall be dertermined
worn is an important factor that shall be taken as follows:
intoaccount in selecting a respirator. a) Determine what contaminant(s) may be
Consideration shall be given to the type of
present in the workplace;
respirator application, such as for routine,
nonroutine, emergency, or rescue use. b) Determine whether there is a published
Threshold Limit Value, Permissible Expo-
7.1.3 Location of the potential hazardous
sure Limit, or any otheravailable exposure
area limit or estimate of toxicity for the contami-
The location of the hazardous area with nant(s). Determine if the IDLH concentra-
respect to a safe area having respirable air tion for the contaminantis available;
shall be considered in selecting a respirator.
c) Determine if there is a comprehensive
This will permit planning for the escape of
health standard (e.g., lead, asbestos) for the
workers if an emergency occurs, for the entry
contaminant(s). If so, there may be specific
of workers to perform maintenance duties,
respirators required that will influence the
and for rescue operations.
selection process;
7.1.4 Respiratorcharacteristics,capablli-
d) If the potential for an oxygen-deficient
ties, and limitations
environment exists, measure the oxygen
The physical characteristics, the functional content;
capabilities, and the performance limitations
e) Measure or estimate the concentration
of the various types shall be considered in
of the contaminant(s);
selecting a respirator. These are described in
annex A. f) Determine the physical state of the con-
taminant. If an aerosol. determine or esti-
7.1.5 Operational limitations
mate the particle size. Determine if vapor
Environmental conditions and level of effort pressure of the aerosol is significant at the
required of the respirator wearer may affect maximum expected temperature of the work
respirator service life. For example,extreme environment;
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
ANSI 288.2-1 992
g) Determine whether the contaminant(s) h) If the contaminant is a paint, lacquer, or

present can beabsorbed through the skin, enamel, select a respirator approved specifi-
produce skin sensitization, or be irritating or cally for paint mists or an atmosphere-supply-
corrosive to the eyes or skin: ing respirator. (Approval label or regulatory
provision may preclude use forsome paints.);
h) Determine for a gas or vapor contami-
nant(s) if a known odor, taste, or irritation i) If the contaminant is a pesticide, select a
concentration exists. respirator and filtration system specifically
approved for pesticides or an atmosphere-
7.2.2.2 Selectionsteps supplying respirator. (Approval label may
The proper respirator shall be selected as fol- preclude usefor some pesticides.);
lows: j) If the contaminant is an aerosol, with an
a) If unable to determine what potentially unknown particle size or less than 2 pm
hazardous contaminant maybe present, the (MMAD), a high-efficiency filter shall be used:
atmosphere shall be consideredIDLH; go to k) If the contaminant is a fume, use a filter
7.3; approved for fumes ora high-efficiency filter;
b) If no exposure limit or guideline is avail- I) If the contaminant is an aerosol, with a
able, and estimatesof the toxicity cannot be particle size greater than2 pm (MMAD), any
made, the atmosphere shall be considered filter type(dust, fumes, mist, or highefficien-
IDLH; go to7.3; cy) may be used:
c) If a specific standard exists for the con- m) If the contaminant is a gas or vapor and
taminant, follow those guidelines/require- has poor warning properties,the use of an
ments; atmosphere-supplyingrespirator is general-
d) If there is an oxygen-deficient atmo- ly recommended. When atmosphere-sup-
sphere, the type of respirator selected plying respirators cannot be used because
depends on the partial pressure and concen- of the lackof a feasible air supply or because
tration of oxygen and the concentrationof of the need for worker mobility, air-purifying
the other contaminant(s) that may be pre- devices shouldbe usedonly if:
sent; goto (e) and to7.3.1through 7.3.4: 1) the air-purifying respirator has a reli-
e) If the measured or estimated concentra- able end-of-service-life indicator that will
tion of the contamínant(s) is considered warn the userprior to Contaminant break-
IDLH: go to7.3: through or
f) Divide the measured or estimated con- 2) a cartridge change schedule is imple-
centration of each contaminantby the expo- mented based on cartridge service data
sure limit or guideline to obtain a hazard including desorption studies (unless car-
ratio. When twoor more substances arepre- tridges are changed daily), expected con-
sent, consideration needs to be given if centration, pattern of use, and duration of
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
there is a synergistic or combined effect of exposure have been established, and the
exposure rather than considering each sub- chemical does not havea ceiling limit.
stance individually. Select a respirator with
an assigned protection factor greater than 7.3 Selection of respiratorsfor atmo-
the value of the hazard ratio, as listed in spheres immediately dangerous to lifeor
table 1. If an air-purifying respirator is select- health,foruseinconfinedspaces, or
ed, continue with (9); reduced-pressure atmospheres
g) If the contaminant(s) is a gas or vapor 7.3.1 Atmospheresimmediatelydanger-
only, select a device with an assigned pro- ous to life or health
tection factor that is greater than the hazard
A location is considered IDLHwhen:
ratio. The concentration shall also be less
than the maximum use concentration of the a) it is an atmosphere known or suspected
cartridgekanister; go to (m). If an aerosol to have concentrations above the IDLH
contaminant is present, go to(h) below; level, or
10
A N I S I 288.2 92 0724350 0508433 296
ANSI 288.2-1992
b) it is a confined space that contains less level) without respiratory protection, but only if
than the normal20.9% oxygen, unless the extraordinary precautions are taken. It will be
source of the oxygen reduction is under- necessary to fully understand the source of
stood and controlled, or the reduction in oxygen and control the level
such that assurance can be given that there
c) oxygen content is below 12.5% (95 mmHg
are no poorly ventilated areas that the worker
pp0,) at sea-level atmospheric pressure, or;
may encounter. Without complete understand-
d) it contains total atmospheric pressure ing and control of the atmosphere within the
less than 450 mmHg (8.6 psi) equivalent to confined space, itshall be considered IDLH.
14 O00 ft (4270 m) altitude orany combina-
tion of reduced percentage of oxygen or 7.3.4 Reduced atmospheric pressure
reduced pres'sure that leads to an oxygen Reduced total atmospheric pressure can lead
partial presswe less than 95 mmHg. to very low oxygen pressure. Therefore,when
operating under conditions of reduced total
7.3.2 Respirators for use under IDLH con- atmospheric pressure, it is necessary to fur-
ditions at normal atmospheric pressure ther define the oxygen concentration by
The required respiratory protection for IDLH means of partial pressure.
conditions caused by the presence of toxic
materials or a reduced percentageof oxygen 7.3.4.1 Definition of oxygen-deficiency
as described in conditions (a), (b), (c) in IDLH involving reduced pressure
7.3.1 is a positive-pressure SCBA or a com- A oxygen partial pressureof 95 mmHg or less
bination of a supplied-air respirator with shall be considered IDLH. The oxygen defi-
SCBA. ciency may be caused by either a reduction in
When respirators are worn under IDLH con- the normal 20.9% oxygen content, by reduced
ditions, at least one standby person shall be total atmospheric pressure to 477 mmHg
present in a safe area. The standby person (8.6 psi) (equivalent to 14 O00 feet elevation),
shall have the proper equipment available to or any combination of reduced percentage of
assist the respirator wearer in case of diffi- oxygen and reduced pressure. Table 2 indi-
culty. Communications (visual, voice, signal cates the conditions that require an SCBA or
line, telephone, radio, or other suitable combination airline/SCBA.
means) shall be maintained between the
7.3.4.2 Definition of oxygen-deficiency
standby person and the wearer. While work-
ing in the IDLH atmosphere, the wearer shall non-IDLH
be equipped with safety harness and safety An oxygen partial pressure of 95 to 122
lines to permit removalto a safe area, if nec- mmHg shall be considered an oxygen-defi-
essary. Provisions for rescue other than cient atmosphere that is not immediately dan-
safety harness and lines may be used, i f geroustolife.Suchanatmospheremay
equivalent. adversely affect a person with reduced toler-
ance to reduced oxygen levels or adversely
7.3.3 Special considerations for confined affect the unacclimatized person performing
spaces work requiring a high degree of mental acuity
Confined spaces continue to be the cause of or heavy stress. Undertheseconditions,a
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numerousdeathsandseriousinjuries. supplied air respiratorisrequired.Table 2

Therefore, any confined space containing less indicates the conditions for which respiratory
than 20.9% oxygen is to be considered IDLH, protection is recommended to reduce impair-
unless the source of the oxygen reduction is ment.
understood and controlled. This restriction is Any medical condition that may adversely
imposedbecause any reductionintheper- affect an individual's tolerance to reduced
centage of oxygen present is proof, at a mini- oxygen levels should be considered. For
mum, that the confined space is not ade- these individuals, an air-supplied respirator
quately ventilated. lt may be possible to per- may be required at a higher pp0, value. This
mit entry into a confined space that contains decision should be made by the examining
between 16% and 20.9% oxygen (at sea physician prior to work assignment.
11
ANSI ZBB 2 0724350 O 508434
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
ANSI 288.2-1 992
" r =C I h
8 8 8 8 8 8
v)
W
ò
z
12
A N S I 288.2 92 0724150
ANSI 288.2-1 992
7.4 Abrasive blasting 7.5.4.2 The head harness straps of tight-fit-

ting respirators shall not be positioned or
Respirators specifically approved for abrasive
worn over hard hats.
blasting shall be selected for use in abrasive
blasting. Abrasiwe blasting in confined spaces 7.5.4.3 The wearing of ahard hat or other
may generate contaminant levels that exceed protective equipment shall not interfere with
the capabilities of any respirator, requiring the the seal of a respirator.
use of engineering controls to reduce the haz-
7.5.5 Respirator use In low-temperature
ard ratio below the assigned protection factor
environments
of the respirator used.
Low temperatures may cause detrimental
7.5 Additionalconsiderationsaffecting
effects on the performance of respirators. The
respirator selection
effects of low temperatures shall be consid-
7.5.1 Facial halr ered in the selection and maintenance of res-
piratorsandrespirablegassupplies. See
A respirator, either positive or negative pres-
clause A.11 of annex A for more information.
sure, equipped with a facepiece (tight or loose
fitting) shall not be worn if facial hair comes 7.5.6 Respirator use In hig h-temperature
between the sealing surface of the facepiece environments
and the face or if facial hair interferes with
High temperatures may affect the perfor-
valve function.
mance of the respirator and may add undue
7.5.2Communications physiological stress. The effects of high tem-
Ambient noise environment and communica- peratures shall be considered in respirator
tion needs shall be considered when specific selectionandformedicalapprovals. See
respirators are selected. (See clause A.13 in clause A.12 of annex A for more information.
annex A.)
7.5.3Vision
7.5.3.1 When arespiratoruser must wear
corrective lenses, a protective spectacle or 8 Training
goggle, a face shield, a welding helmet, or
other eye- and face-protective devices, the 8.1 Training for employees
item shall be fitted to provide good vision and
shall be worn in such a manner as not to The supervisor, person issuing respirators,
interfere with the seal of the respirator. respirator wearers, and emergency/rescue
teams shall be given adequate training (and
7.5.3.2 Spectacleswithstrapsortemple periodic retraining) by a qualified person(s) to
bars that pass through the sealing surface of ensure the proper use of respirators. Written
either negative- or positive-pressure, tight-fit- records shall be keptof the names of persons
ting, full-facepiece respirators shall not be trained and the dates when training occurred.
used.
8.1.1
Supervisor
7.5.3.3 Contactlensesmaybewornwith
A supervisor - that is, a person who has the
respirators, provided the individual has previ-
responsibility of overseeing the work activities
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
ously demonstrated that he or she has had

successful experience wearing contact lens- of one or more persons who must wear respi-
rators - shall be given adequate training
es. Thecontactlenswearershallpractice
wearing the respirator while wearing the con- including the following subjects as a minimum:
tact lenses. - basic respiratory protection practices;
7.5.4 Respirator sealing problems - nature and extent of respiratory hazards
7.5.4.1 A headcoveringthatpassesbe-
to which persons under his/her supervision
tween the sealing surface of a tight-fitting res- may be exposed;
pirator facepiece and the wearer’s face shall - recognition and resolution of respirator
not be used. use problems;
13
A N S I 2 8 8 . 29 2 D 0724350 O508436 TT5 =
ANSI 288.2-1 992
- principles and criteria for selecting respi- - Instructionsinemergencyprocedures

rators used by personsunder his/her super- and the useof emergency escape devices;
vision;
- Regulations concerningrespirator use.
- training of respirator wearers; 8.1.4 Emergency and rescue teams
- fitting and issuance of respirators;
Teams that are established b y employers for
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
- inspection of respirators; the purpose of responding to emergencies
and/orrescues,suchasindustrialfire
- use of respirators, including monitoring brigades, shall be properly trained in the use
of use; of respirators. A suitabletrainingprogram
- maintenance and storage of respirators; shall be established that includes emergency
drills to ensure the proficiency and familiarity
- regulations concerning respirator use.
of team members to use the respirators effec-
8.1.2 Person lssulng respirators tively while performing such emergency
and/or rescue operations.
A person assigned the taskof issuing respira-
tors shall be given adequate training to 8.2Trainingfrequency
ensure that the correct respirator is issued for
Each respirator wearer shall be trained upon
each application in accordance with written
initial assignment and be retrained once every
standard operatingprocedures.
12 months.
8.1.3 Respirator wearer
8.3
Records
To ensure the proper and safe use of a respi-
For each employee, records shall be main-
rator, the minimum training of each respirator
tained that give the date and type of training
wearer shall include the following elements:
received, performance results (as appropri-
- the need for respiratory protection; ate), and the instructor's name.
- the nature, extent, and effects of respira-
tory hazards in theworkplace;
- the needto inform their supervisor of any 9 Respirator fitting tests
problems experienced by them or their
co-workers; A qualitative or quantitative respirator fittest
- an explanation of why engineering con- shall be usedto determine the ability of each
individual respirator wearer to obtain a satis-
trols are not being applied or are not ade-
factory fit with a tight-fitting respirator. The
quate and what effort is being made to
results of fittingtests among other criteria shall
reduce or eliminate the need for respirators;
be used to select specific types, makes, and
- an explanation of why a particular type of models of respirators for use by individual res-
respirator has been selectedfor a specific pirator wearers.
respiratory hazard;
Requirements for acceptable tests are given
- an explanation of the operation, capabili- in ANSI 288.10 (Until ANSI 288.10 is pub-
ties, and limitationsof the respirator selected; lished, the protocol given in the OSHA
- instruction for inspecting and donning AsbestosStandard, 29 CFR 1910.1001
the respirator. This includes a requirement should befollowed).
that a fit check shall be done each time the 9.1 Fit test requirements
respirator is donned or adjusted;
9.1.1Acceptance criteria
- Successful completion of a fit test in accor-
If a quantitative fit test is used, a fitfactor that
dance with ANSI 288.1O. (Until ANSI288.1O is
published, the protocol given in the OSHA is at least 10 times greater than the assigned
Asbestos Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1001,should protection factor (table 1) of a negative-pres-
be followed.); sure respirator shall be obtained before that
respiratorisassigned to anindividual. If a
- An explanation of how to maintain and qualitative test is used, only validated proto-
store the respirator; colsareacceptable.Thetestshallbe
14
ANSI 288.2-1992
designed to assess fit factors 1 O times greater 9.1.7

Cleaning
than the assigned protection factor. Respirators used for fit testing shall be cleaned
9.1.2 Posltive-pressure respirators in accordance with the requirements in 10.2.
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Those respirators that have a tight seal to the 9.2 Fitting problems and alternatives
face shall be qualitatively or quantitatively fit If facial features such as scars, hollow tem-
tested in a negative-pressure mode. The pur- ples, excessively protruding cheekbones,
pose of the test is to ensure that an unaccept- deep creases in facial skin, the absence of
able fit of the respirator to the wearer that de- teeth or dentures, or unusual facial configura-
grades protection through leakage and would tions prevent a seal of a respirator facepiece
reduce service life for self-contained breath- to a wearer’s face, the person shall not be
ing apparatus does not occur. A fit factor of permitted to wear the respirator.
at least 100 shall be obtained.
If a situation is encountered whereby a worker
9.1.3 Faceplece cannot obtain a satisfactory fit with a tight-fit-
If the facepiece of a positive-pressure, tight- ting respirator, recommended alternatives to
fitting respirator is modified for fit testing, provide adequate respiratory protection are:
- the modification shall not affect the nor- - providing the worker with a loose-fitting
mal fitof the device; facepiece, helmet, or hooded device of suffi-
cient assigned protection factor for the haz-
- the modification should not add signifi- ard;
cant weight, or cause significant imbalance;
- transferring the worker to a job or work
- the air flow shall not be restricted; site where respiratory protection is not
required.
- the modified facepiece should be leak
tested on al mannequin head or similar 9.3 Test considerations
device; 9.3.1 Number of respirators
- such modified devices shall only be used No one size or model of respirator will fit all
for fittesting. types of faces. Different sizes and models will
9.1.4 Resplrator accommodate more facial types. Therefore,
an appropriate number of sizes and models
A respirator fiit test shall be carried out for shall be available from which a satisfactory
each wearer oí a tight-fitting respirator at least respirator can be selected.
once every 12 months.
The number of models and sizes necessary to
9.1.5Repeated testing fulfill the intent of this requirement will vary for
workplaces. For example, in a workplace with
A fit test shall be repeated when a person has four workers, one model and size may fulfill
a condition that may interfere with facepiece the requirement: whereas a workplace with a
sealing, such as a significant change in hundred wearers may require different models
weight (10% or more), significant scarring in in various sizes.
the area of the faceseal, dental changes,
reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, or any 9.3.2Employee acceptance
other condition that may affect the fit of the Respirator comfort is an important factor in
facepiece seall. wearer acceptance of the device. Other fac-
tors that influence wearer acceptance include
9.1.6 Protective equipment
breathing resistance, impairment of vision,
Fit testing sha.ll be done while wearing protec- impairment of communications, and respirator
tive equipment, such as spectacles, goggles, weight. Devices withgreater wearer accep-
face shield, or welding helmet, that will be tance are likely to be worn more continually
worn during work activities and could interfere and thus provide more protection. Employee
with the fit. The respirator should be config- acceptance of a particular respirator model
ured in the way that it will be used, ¡.e., with a within a class shall be considered in selecting
chin canister or cartridge. a respirator since this may determine whether
15
A N S I 2 8 8 - 2 92 0724350 0508Y38 8 7 8
ANSI 288.2-1 992
or not the respirator is worn properly. If the 10.1 Cleaning and sanitizing
results of the respirator fit test show that the Respirators issued to an individual shall be
person can Obtain an acceptable fit with cleaned and sanitized regularly. Each respira-
or moremodels of theselected class of respi- tor shall be c,eaned and sanitized before
rator, then
the
person
should be permitted to being by different
use the preferredrespirator model. Respirators intended for emergency use shall
9.4 Respirator fit test records cleaned
be andsanitized
after
being
used.
(Clause A.4 in annex A provides a suggested
Respirator
fit test records shall include the fol- for cleaning and sanitizing.)
lowing information:
10.2 Inspection
.- writtenstandardoperatingprocedures
for the respirator fit testingprograminclud- The user shall inspect the respirator immedi-
ing pass/fail criteria; ately prior to each use ensure
tothat it is in
proper working condition. After cleaning and
- type Of respirator fit test(s) sanitizing, each respirator shall inspected
be
i gthe specific fit test protocol;
n
to determine if it is in proper working condi-
- type of respirator fit test instrumentation tion, if itneedsreplacement of parts or
equipment
and used;
repairs, or if it discarded.
should
be Each
respirator stored for emergency or rescue use
- instrumentandequipmentcalibration, shall be inspected at least monthly.
maintenance, and repair, where applicable;
Respirator inspection shall include a check for
- name or identification of the test operator;
tightness of connections; for the condition of
- specific make, model, and size of the the respiratory inlet covering, head harness,
exact respiratory protective device tested; valves, connecting tubes, harness assem-
blies, hoses, filters, cartridges, canisters, end-
- name or identificationof the person tested;
of-service-life indicator, electrical compo-
- date of test; nents, and shelf-life date(s); and for the prop-
er function of regulators, alarms, and other
- results of respirator fitting tests, including: warning systems. Each rubber or other elas-
- fitfactorbasedupon quantitative fit tomeric part shall be inspected for pliability
test(s); and signs of deterioration. Each air and oxy-
gen cylinder shall be inspected to ensure that
- success or failure to obtain a satis- it is fully charged according to the manufac-
factory fit based onqualitative fit test(s);
turer's instructions.
- any special considerations or difficul- A record of inspection dates shall be kept for
ties in wearing (contact lenses or glasses
each respirator maintained for emergency or
worn, dentures, forehead scars, etc.).
rescueuse.Respiratorsthat donotmeet
applicable inspection criteria shall be immedi-
ately removed from service and repaired or
replaced.
10 Maintenance, inspection, and stor- 10.3 Parts replacement and repair
age Replacement of parts or repairs shall be done
only by persons trained in proper respirator
A program for the maintenanceof respirators
maintenanceandassembly.Replacement
shall include the following:
parts shall be only those designated for the
a) cleaning and sanitizing (10.1); specificrespiratorrepaired.Reducingor
admission valves, regulators, and alarms shall
b) inspection for defects (10.2);
be adjusted or repairedby the respirator man-
c) maintenance and repair (10.3); ufacturer or a technician trained by the manu-
facturer. Instrumentation for valve,regulator,
d) storage (10.4);
and alarm adjustments and tests should be
e) assurance of breathing air quality (10.5). calibrated to a standard traceable to the
16
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
r \ N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 0724150 0508439 704
ANSI 288.2-1992
Table 3 - Periodic air sampling guidancefor purchased breathing respirable gas

Method of DreDaration Analysis recommended
Compression - Supplier does not fill cylin- Check 10% of cylinders from each lot for
ders with any other gases ppm CO and odor
Compression - Supplier fills cylinders with Analyze all cylinders for percent oxygen.
gases othertlhan air Check 10% of cylinders from each lot for
ppm CO and odor
Reconstitution Analyze all cylinders for percent oxygen.
Check 10% of cylinders from each lot for
ppm CO and odor
National Institute of Standards and Technolo- 10.5.2Special considerations foroxygen

gy (NIST), at a lminimum of every 3 years. systems
10.4Storage Compressed gaseous air may contain low
concentrations of oil introduced from equip-
Respirators shall be stored in a manner that
will protect them against physical and chemi- ment during processing or normal operation.
If high-pressure oxygen passes through an
cal agents such as vibration, shocks, sunlight,
oil- or grease-coated orifice, an explosion or
heat, extreme cold, excessive moisture, or
firemayoccur.Therefore,compressed
damagingchemicals.Respiratorsshallbe
stored to prevent distortion of rubber or other gaseous oxygen shall not be used in supplied-
air respirators or in open-circuit-type self-con-
elastomericparts.Respiratorsshallnotbe
stored in such places as lockers and tool tained breathing apparatus that have previ-
boxes, unless they are protected from con- ously used compressed air. Oxygen concen-
trations greater than 23.5% shall be used only
tamination,distortion,anddamage.Emer-
in equipment designed for oxygen service or
gency and rescue use respirators that are
distribution.
placed in work areas shall be quickly accessi-
ble at all times, and the storage cabinet or 10.5.3 Dew point
container in which they are stored shall be
The dew point of air used to recharge self-
clearly marked.
contained
breathing
apparatus shall
10.5 Respirable air and oxygen for self- be -65°F or lower (less than 25 ppm water
contained breathing apparatus and sup- vapor). The driest air obtainable (dew point
plied air respirators of -100°F or lower) should be usedfor recharg-
ing SCBA cylinders to be used in environments
10.5.1 Air quality with ambient temperatures below-25°F.
Compressedgaseousair,compressed 10.5.4Breathingairfrom cylinders or air
gaseous oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen compressors
used for respiration shall be of high purity.
Compressed gaseous or liquid oxygen shall Breathing air may be supplied to supplied-air
meet the requirements of the United States respirators from cylinders or air compressors.
Pharmacopoeia for medical or breathing oxy- 10.5.4.1 Cylinders shall be tested and main-
gen. Compressedgaseousair shall meetat tained in accordance with applicable Depart-
least the requirements of the specification for ment of Transportation specifications for ship-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Type I - Grade D breathing air, and liquid air ping containers (Title 49, Code of Federal
shall meet at least the requirements for Regulations,Part173,andPart 178).5)
Type I I - Grade B breathing air as described Specific test recommendations for purchased
in ANSIKGA G-7.1-1989. breathing air are given in table 3.
5) See Clause 2, Normative references.
17
A N S I 288-2 92
ANSI 288.2-1 992
Table 4 - Periodic air sampling guidance for compresslon
Combustion
Type/sample I Oil
lubricated
Non-oll
lubricated
engine
powered
CO X
Condensed
hydrocarbon X
c02
Odor l x
NOTES
1 When using air compressors, intake location shallbe carefully selected and moni-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
tored closely to ensure air supplied to the compressor is of adequate quality.

2 No frequency for periodic checks of air quality is specified, due to wide variation in
equipment type, use and working environments, and operating experience.
3 Continuous monitoring of temperature and carbon monoxide are not required.
4 For non-oil lubricated compressors that operate at less than 35 psi, no sampling for
water is required.
5 These requirements apply to systems designed for breathing air, other air-supply sys-
tems need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for the type and frequency of testing.
10.5.4.2 Acompressor shall be constructed a representative sample should be taken at

so as to avoid entry of contaminated air. For distribution supply points. Samples should be
all air compressors, including portable types, collected on a periodic basis, as directed by
theairintakelocationshallbecarefully the program administrator. Specific test rec-
selected, and monitored closely to ensure ommendations are given in table 4.
continued quality of air supply to the compres-
sor. The system shall be equipped as neces- 10.5.4.4 The dew point of breathing air used
sary with a suitable in-line air-purifying sor- with supplied air respirators should be lower
bent bed and filter to further assure breathing than the lowest ambient temperature to which
airquality.Maintenanceandreplacement/ any regulator or control valve on the respira-
refurbishment of compressor and associated tor or air-supplied system willbe exposed.
air-purifying/filter media shall be performed
periodically, by trained personnel following 10.5.4.5 Breathing air couplings shall be
manufacturer’s recommendations and instruc- incompatible with outlets for nonrespirable
tions. plant air or other gas systems to prevent inad-
vertent servicing of supplied-air respirators
10.5.4.3 As part of acceptance testing, and with nonrespirable gases. Breathing air out-
prior to initial use, representative sampling of lets shall be labeled.
the compressor air output shall be performed
to ensure that it complies with the require- 10.5.4.6 Breathinggascontainersshall be
ments in 10.5.1 and 10.5.4. To ensure a con- marked in accordance with ANSVCGA C-4-1990.
tinued high-quality air supply, and to account Further details on sources of compressed air and
for any distribution system contaminant input, its safe use willbe found in CGA G-7-1988.
18
A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 0724350 0508443 362 W
ANSI 288.2-1 992
Annex A
(informative)
Supplemental Information
A.l Approval agencies A.2 Lists of approved respirators
A.l.l National Institute for Occupational Respirators approved jointly by NIOSH and
Safety and Health (NIOSH) MSHA under provisionsof Title 30 CFR Part 11
arelistedin“NIOSHCertifiedPersonal
Title 30, CFR, Part 11 gave jurisdiction for Protective Equipment.” Supplements are is-
joint approval of respirators to the National sued periodically. (See annex C . )
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH), U.S. Department of Health and
Human Service:;, and to the Bureau of Mines
(BM), U.S. Department of the Interior.
A.3 Monitoring of respiratory hazards
A.1.2 Mining Enforcement
and
Safety
Adminlstration (MESA) The level of exposures of respirator wearers to
respiratory hazards is determined by using
In 1974, a reorganization of the U.S. Depart- instruments to measure the concentrations of
ment of the Interior resulted in the formation air contaminants or oxygen in the breathing
of theMiningEnforcementandSafety zone of the respirator wearers. Adequate air
Administration (MESA), which assumed the sampling and analysis or appropriate calcula-
health and safety activities of the Bureau of tions should be carried outto determine both
Mines (BM), including the respirator testing the time-weighted average (TWA) concentra-
and approving functions. Subsequent respiration and, when appropriate, the short-term con-
tor approvals were issued jointly by the centration of the respiratory hazard to which a
National Institute for Occupational Safety and respirator wearer may be potentially exposed
Health (NIOSH) and the Mining Enforcement or is actually exposed. The concentrations of a
and Safety Administfation (MESA). substance in air may be affected by changes in
A.1.3 Mine Safety and Health Admlnistra- process operation, changes in rate and direc-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
tion (MSHA) tion of air movement, changes in temperature
from day to night operation, and changes in
The Federal Mine Safety and Health Amend- seasons; these factors should be taken into
ments Act of 1977 transferred the authority for account in carrying out a program for monitor-
enforcement o1 mining safety and health from ing respiratory hazards.
the U.S. Department of Interior to the U S .
It is essential that the volume of air sampled
Department of Labor. Taking effect in March
during a test contain a sufficient quantity of
1978, the act created the Mine Safety and
the hazardous substance for accurate deter-
Health Administration (MSHA) in the U.S.
mination of workplace concentration. The vol-
Department of Labor, which replaced the
ume of air to be sampled or the duration of
Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
the air-sampling period depends upon thefol-
(MESA) of the U.S. Department of Interior.
lowing factors:
The Mine Safety and Health Administration
(MSHA) has assumed the respirator testing - estimatedconcentration of thesub-
andapprovingfunctions of theMining stance in air;
EnforcementandSafetyAdministration
(MESA). Respirator approvals are now issued
- sensitivity of the sampling instrument
and sampling procedures;
jointly by the National Institute for Occupa-
tional Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the - establishedtime-weighted average con-
MineSafetyandHealthAdministration centration and established short-term expo-
(MSHA). sure levels for the substancein air.
19
A N S I 288.2 92 0724350 0508442 2T9
ANSI 288.2-1 992
Although it is recognized that the concentra- i) Attachfilters,cartridges,andcanisters

tion of a hazardous substance, which occurs to respiratory inlet coverings;
during an emergency, cannot always be mea- j) Visually inspect and, where possible,
sured or calculated, every reasonable effort test parts and respirator assemblies for
should be made to estimate what this concen- proper function;
tration would be.
k) Place assembled respirators in appropri-
Consideration should be given to the use of a ate containers for storage.
continuously operating air monitor and alarm
to alert respirator wearers when a high con- Machines may be used to expedite the clean-
centration of a hazardous substance suddenly ing, sanitizing, rinsing, and drying of large
occurs. numbers of respirators. Extreme care shall
be taken to ensure against tumbling, agitation,
or exposure to temperatures above those rec-
A.4 Suggested procedures for cleaning ommended by the manufacturer (normally
and sanitizing respirators 43°C or llO°F, maximum), as these condi-
tions are likely to result in damage to the res-
Procedures in addition to the manufacturer’s pirators. Ultrasonic cleaners, clothes washing
instructions are as follows: machines, dishwashers, and clothes dryers
have been specially adapted and successfully
a) Remove, when necessary, the following used for cleaning and drying respirators.
components of respiratory inlet covering
assemblies before cleaning and sanitizing: Cleaner sanitizers that effectively clean the
respirator and contain a bactericidal agent are
1) filters, cartridges, canisters;
commerciallyavailable.Thebactericidal
2) speaking diaphragms; agent frequently used is a quaternary ammo-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
nium compound.
3) valve assemblies;
Strong cleaning and sanitizing agents and
4) any componentsrecommendedby
many solvents can damage rubber or elas-
the respirator manufacturers;
tomericrespiratorparts.Thesematerials
b) Wash respiratory inlet covering assem- must be used with caution.
blies in warm (43°C or 1 10°F maximum tem-
Alternatively, respirators may be washed in a
perature) cleaner sanitizer solution. A stiff
detergent solution and then sanitized by
bristle (not wire) brush may be used to facili- immersion in a sanitizing solution. Some san-
tate removal of dirt or other foreign material; itizing solutions that have proven effective
c) Rinse respiratory inlet covering assem- are: (a) a hypochlorite (bleach) solution (50
blies in clean, warm (43°C or 110°F maxi- parts per million chlorine), 2-minute immer-
mum temperature) water; sion; (b) an aqueous iodine solution (50 parts
per million of iodine), 2-minute immersion; or
d) Drain all water, and air dry the respirato-
(c) a quaternary ammonium solution (200
ry inlet covering assemblies; parts per million of quaternary ammonium
e) Clean and sanitize all parts removed compounds in water with less than 500 parts
from respiratory inlet covering as recom- per million total hardness), 2-minute immer-
mended by themanufacturers; sion.
f) Dry parts. If necessary to remove foreign Different concentrations of quaternary ammo-
material, hand wipe respiratory inlet cover- nium salts are required to achieve a sanitizing
ing assemblies, all parts, and all gasket- and solution with waters of varying hardness.
valve-sealing surfaces with damp, lint-free Inflammation of the skin of the respirator user
cloth; (dermatitis) may occur if the quaternary
ammonium compounds are not completely
g) Inspect parts and replace any that are
rinsed from the respirator. The hypochlorite
defective;
and iodine solutions are unstable and break
h) Reassemble parts on respiratory inlet down with time; they may cause deterioration
covering assemblies; of rubber or other elastomeric parts and may
20
ANSI 288.2-1992
becorrosive to metallicparts.Immersion The effect of oxygen deficiency on the body is

times should riot be extended beyond the the same in either case. It is the quantity or
mentioned time periods, and the sanitizers partial pressure of oxygen available that is of
shall be thoroughly rinsed from the respirator utmost importance, and not the percent by
parts. volume or atmospheric pressure.
Respirators may become contaminated with As shown in table A.l, the greater the alti-
toxic materials. If the contamination is light, tude,thelowerthepp02.Peopleliveand
normal cleaning procedures should provide work at high altitudes. They do so with little
satisfactory decontamination; otherwise, sep- or no physiological effect because they are
arate decontamination steps may be required acclimatized. The human body can adapt to
before cleaning. the reduced pp0, levels by making compen-
sating changes to its respiratory, cardiovascu-
lar, andhematopoieticsystems.Complete
acclimatization requires about 4 weeks' resi-
A S Oxygen deficiency dence at the ambient pp0,.
A.5.1 Introduction When people who are not acclimatized work

in areas of reduced ppO,, they will experience
Oxygen is a normal component of our atmo- a feeling of fatigue. The same work rate in an
spheric environment, which is necessary to environment of reduced pp0, produces a
sustain life. higher breathing rate, a greater heart rate,
Earth's atmosphere is made up of the follow- and possibly other symptoms of fatigue that,
ing gases, excluding water vapor, in the pro- under normal conditions, would not be cus-
portions noted: tomary at this workload. This effect may be
reflected in the worker's choice of work tac-
Partial pressure tics.
Gas -\lolume (Y!)mmHgatsea level
A 5 2 Oxygen deficiency immediately dan-
Nitrogen 78.1 593 gerous to life or health
Oxygen 20.9 159
0.9 7.1 Oxygen deficiency immediately dangerous to
Argon life or health is defined as an oxygen content
NOTE - Small amounts of other gases, such as below 12.5% (95 mmHg pp02) at sea level or
carbon dioxide, neon, krypton, and helium, are an atmospheric pressure less than 450 mmHg
also present, as is water vapor. Partial pressure
equals the fractional concentrationof the gas in (8.6 psi) equivalent to 14 O00 ft (4270 m) alti-
question times thetotal atmospheric pressure. tude.
The percent bly volume of these gases does The rationale for this classification is that an
not vary with altitude; however, the partial oxygen content less than 12.5% (or atmo-
pressures decrease with increasing altitude spheric pressure less than 450 mmHg), corre-
because the total pressure decreases. sponds to an oxygen partial pressure of 48
mmHg in the alveoli of the lungs with a carbon
A reduction in1 the partial pressure of oxygen
dioxide partial pressure of 40 mmHg in the
(pp0,) may result from the following: alveoli of the lungs. At these conditions, the
- Reductlion of the percent b y volume of hemoglobin of the alveolar blood is 83% satu-
oxygen. This situation can result from the rated with oxygen. When the oxygen content
oxygen being displaced or otherwise re- of the hemoglobin drops below 83% satura-
moved. It i3 the most common form of oxy- tion, symptoms of oxygen deficiency become
gen-deficiency hazard, warranting extreme evident and adequate respiratory protection,
care when entering confined spaces; specified in clause 7 of this standard, shall be
provided.
- Reduct?d atmospheric pressure. This
situation occurs when the total atmospheric The relationship between oxygen partial pres-
pressure is reduced. The oxygen percent by sure in the lung's alveoli and the correspond-
volume may remain at 20.9%, but the pp02 ing percent saturation of hemoglobin is given
will be lower than normal. in figure A.l. At higher alveolar oxygen par-
21
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
s
h
8
E!
s s (U
o) % m
a, Ì?
V
e o
U)
a,
U 8V
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
o,V
22
TOB m
ANSI 288.2-1 992
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
/
- IDLH level
60 70 80 90 100
Partial pressure of oxygen in alveoli
(mm Hg)
Figure A.l - Oxygen dissociation curve
23
A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 72 D 0724350 0508446 994
ANSI 288.2-1 992
tia1 pressures (60-100 mmHg range), only high altitudes, increasing the oxygen content
slight changes are evident in the hemoglobin of the air supplied to the respirator, as shown
oxygen saturation. However, as the alveoli in table A.l is necessary to provide sufficient
oxygen pressure continues to fall (from 60 oxygen. Consideration shouldalso be given to
down to 30 mmHg), a much larger change breathing tubes, which may be included in the
occurs in the blood oxygenlevel.This rapid deadvolume,unlessthefacepieceis
rate of change then can present an unforgiv- equipped with an inhalation check valve.
ing situation to an unprotected worker where
debilitating physiological symptoms can
appear suddenly, without warning, after only
relatively small changes in ambient oxygen A.6 Recommended procedure for fit
levels. checking
A.5.3 Considerations for reduced oxygen A check shall be conductedby the wearer each
levels time the respirator is donned or adjusted to
determine if the respirator is properly seated
to
With full facepiece respirators, either air puri- the face by following the procedures recom-
fying or supplied air, the volume inside the mended by the manufacturer or by any of the
facepiece can affect the oxygen content checks described inA.6.1-A.6.3:
breathed by the wearer when these respira-
tors are used in reduced oxygen atmo- A.6.1 Negative-pressure fit check
spheres. A negative air-pressure respirator fit check
When someone breathes in normal air at 21% can be used on air-purifying and atmosphere-
oxygen, part of the oxygen is absorbed to be supplying respirators equipped with tight-fit-
used by the body. On exhalation, the breath ting facepieces.
will at first consist of this same air, since there This test may be difficult or impossible to
is little oxygen/carbon dioxideexchange at the
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
carry out onvalveless respirators. Theinlet

top of the lung. As a person continues to opening of the respirator's facepiece canis-
exhale, and more carbon dioxide is released, ter(s), cartridge(s), or filter(s) is closed off by
the last portion of the breath may contain 5% covering with the palm of the hand(s), by
carbon dioxide and 16% oxygen. replacing the inlet seal on a canister(s), or by
When a worker wears a respirator, a portion squeezing a breathing tube or blocking its
of the worker's exhaled breath remains in the inlet so that it will not allow the passageof air.
respirator. Thus, on inhalation, thepercent- Then, the wearer inhales gently and holds
age of oxygen inhaled is reduced by the his/her breath. If a facepiece collapses slight-
amount of carbon dioxide that is rebreathed. ly and no inward leakage of air into the face-
When respirators are used in oxygen-deficient piece is detected, it can be reasonably
environments, the effect of rebreathing the assured that the fit of the respirator to the
exhaled air in the facepiece can be significant wearer is satisfactory.
since it will lead to further reductions in oxy- A.6.2 Positive-pressure fit check
gen content.
A positive air-pressure fit check can be used
For negative-pressure air-purifying respira- on respirators equipped with tight-fitting respi-
tors, reducing the volume of the facepiece by ratory-inlet coverings that contain both inhala-
using a respirator designed with a small mask tion and exhalation valves. This test may be
volume or by using anose cup will lessen this difficult or impossible to carry out on valveless
effect. For supplied-air respirators, the effect respirators. The exhalation valve or breathing
is significant only with demand- and pressure- tube, or both, is closed off and then the wear-
demand-type respirators (not continuous flow) er exhales gently. The fit of a respirator
and only when reduced atmospheric pressure equipped with a facepiece is considered to be
is the cause of the reduced oxygen content. satisfactory if a slight positive pressure can
Reducing thevolume of the facepiece through be built up inside the facepiece without the
the use of a nose cup or using continuous detection of any outward leakage of air
flow respirators may lessen this effect. At
I 24
between the sealing surface of the facepiece
ANSI 288.2-1992
andtherespiratorwearer’s face. For some A.7.1.5 sensitizers: Substances that cause

respirators, this test method requires that the a formation of antibodies that can leadto an
respirator wearer first remove an exhalation increased probability of asthmatic-like reac-
cover from the respirator and then replace it tions (for example, isocyanates,epoxy resin
after completion of the test. These tasks systems).
often are difficult to carry out without disturb-
ing the fit of the respirator to the wearer. A.7.1.6 systemlcpoisons: Substancesthat
damage organs and systems in the body (for
A.6.3 Irritant or odorous test agent example, mercury (nervous system and kid-
ney), phosphorus (bone), hydrogen sulfide
The person wearing the respirator is exposed
to an irritant smoke, isoamyl acetate vapor, (respiratory paralysis), and arsine (red blood
saccharin mist, or other suitable test agent cells and liver)).
easily detected by irritation, taste, or odor (an A.7.1.7 reproductivetoxins: Chemicals
air-purifying respirator must be equipped with that affect the reproductive capabilities includ-
theappropriate air-purifying element). If the ing chromosomal damage (mutation), and that
respirator wearer is unable to detect the pene- affectfetuses(teratogens)(forexample,
tration of the test agent into the respirator, it Dichlorobutene).
can be reasonably assured that the seal of
the respirator to the wearer is satisfactory. A.7.1.8 carcinogens: Substances that pro-
duce cancer in some individuals after a latent
WARNING: Care must be taken in conducting period (for example, vinyl chloride, benzene).
negative-orpositive-pressurefitchecks.
Thorough training in carrying out these tests A.7.2 Particulate
contaminants (dust,
should be given to respirator wearers. fog, fume, mist, smoke, and spray)
NOTE - Fit checks are not substitutes for qualita-
tive or quantitative fit tests. A.7.2.1 nuisance dusts: Contaminants that
may cause discomfort and minorirritation, but
generally without injury at reasonable concen-
trations (for example, marble, gypsum).
A.7 Classification of respiratory har- A.7.2.2 pulmonary fibrousproducing:
ards according to their bíological effect Contaminants that produce modulation and
fibrosis in the lung, possibly leadingto compli-
A.7.1 Gas and vapor contamlnants cations (for example, crystalline silica, asbes-
A.7.1.1 simple asphyxiants: Physiolo- tos).
gically inert substances that dilute oxygenin A.7.2.3 reproductivetoxins: Chemicals
the air (for example, nitrogen, hydrogen, heli- that affect the reproductive capabilities includ-
um, methane). ing chromosomal damage (mutation) and that
A.7.1.2 chemicalasphyxiants: Low con- affect fetuses (teratogens) (for example, lead).
centrations that interfere with supplyor utiliza- A.7.2.4 carcinogens: Contaminantsthat
tion of oxygen in the body (for example, carbon produce cancerin some individuais after latent
monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, cyanogen, and period (for example, asbestos, chromates,
nitriles).
radioactive particulates).
A.7.1.3 irritants: Corrosive in action. May
A.7.2.5 chemicalirritants: Contaminants
cause irritation and inflammationof parts of the
that produce irritation, inflammation, and ulcer-
respiratory system (also skin and eyes) and
ation in upper respiratory tract (forexample,
pulmonary edema (for example, ammonia,
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
acidic mists, alkalies).

hydrogen chloride, formaldehyde, sulfur diox-
ide, chlorine, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, phos- A.7.2.6 systemic poisons: Contaminants
gene, and arsenic trichloride). that damage organs and systems in the body
A.7.1.4 anesthetics: Substances that (for example, lead, manganese, cadmium).
cause loss of feeling and sensationwith uncon- A.7.2.7 sensitizers: Contaminants
that
sciousness and death possible (for example, cause a formation of antibodies that can lead
nitrous oxide, hydrocarbons, andethers). to an increased probability of asthmatic-like
25
ANSI 288.2-1 992
reactions (for example, pollens, spices, ani-

mal fur, epoxy resin systems). metalsarechemicallybondedtoorganic
groups (for example, tetraethyl lead.)
A.7.2.8 febrile reaction producing: Con-
taminants that produce chills followed by fever A.8.6 radlonuclides: Thesearematerials
(for example, fumes of zinc and copper). that undergo a spontaneous transformation,
A.7.3 Combinations of gas, vapor, and par- called decay, during whichradiation is emitted
ticulate contaminants and anew nuclide, called a daughter(or decay
product) is formed. The radiations areof spe-
Combinations of contaminants may occur cific type(s) and energy or energy distribution
simultaneously in the atmosphere. When they for each speciesof radionuclide.
do, synergistic effects (joint action of two or
more agents that results in an effect that is A.8.7 aerosol contaminants: Aerosolsare
greater than the sum of their individual produced by mechanical means by disintegra-
effects) may occur. Such effects may require
tion processes such as grinding, crushing,
extraordinary protective measures. drilling, blasting, and spraying; by reactions
such as combustion, or by condensation. Can
be composed of the types of materials listed
above.
A.8 Classification of respiratory haz-

ardsaccordingtotheirproperties,
which Influence respirator selection
A.9 Classification and description of
A.8.1 inert: Substancesthatdonotreact respirators by modeof operation
with other substances undermost conditions,
but create a respiratory hazardby displacing A.9.1 Atmosphere-supplying respirators
air and producing oxygendeficiency (for exam- A class of respirators that supply a respirable
ple, helium, neon, argon). atmosphere independent of the ambient air.
A.8.2 acidic: Substances that are acids or A.9.1.1 Self-contained breathing apparatus
that react with water to produce an acid. In (SCBA)
water, they produce positively charged hydro-
The breathing atmosphere, air, oxygen, or
gen ions (H+) and a pH of less than 7 . They
oxygen-generating chemical is carried by the
taste sour, and many are corrosive to tissues
wearer. A fullfacepieceis most commonly
(for example, hydrogenchloride, sulfur dioxide,
used, although half-masks, mouthpieces, and
fluorine, nitrogen dioxide, acetic acid, and car-
hoods are available on some units.
bon dioxide).
a) Closed-circuit SCBA. In closed-circuit
A.8.3 alkaline: Substances that are bases or breathing apparatus, all or a percentage of
that react with water to produce a base. In the exhaled gasis cleaned and rebreathed.
water, they result in the productionof negative- All closed-circuit units have the advantage of
l y charged hydroxyl ions (OH-) and a pH lower weight for the same use duration as
greater than7. They taste bitter, and many are open-circuit apparatus. Units are available
corrosive to tissues (for example, ammonia in duration from 30 minutes to 4 hours. Dis-
and amines). advantages include increased complexity
and cost. With the exceptionof the liquified
A.8.4 organic: The compounds of carbon. gas systems, closed-circuit SCBA tend to
Examples are aliphatic hydrocarbons (octane), run hotter than the open-circuit units. Units
alcohols(propanol, methanol),ketones are available in which the facepiece is
(methylethyl ketone), organic acids (acetic always driven negative during inhalation
acid), halides (1,l ,i-trichloroethane), nitriles (negative pressure), or maintains a positive
(acrylonitrile), epoxies (propylene oxide), and pressure during inhalation while the person
aromatics (toluene, xylene). is at restor performing light work.
26
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
A N S I 288.2 92 0724350 0508449 b53 D
ANSI Z88.2-1992
1) Storedoxygensystemssupplyoxy- flow to the wearer. Exhaled air passes to the

gen compressed in cylinders or carried ambient atmosphere through a valve(s) or
as a liquid (cryogenic). Oxygen is admit- opening@) in the enclosure (facepiece, hel-
ted to a breathing bag either as a contin- met,hood,orsuit).Up to 300 feet (91
uous flow or controlled by a regulator meters) of hose length is permissible, de-
governed by the pressure or degree of pending upon the certification. Hose supplied
inflation of the bag. The wearer inhales by the manufacturer and recommended oper-
from the bag and exhales into it. Exhaled ating pressures and hose lengths shall be
breath is scrubbed of carbon dioxide by a used.
chemical bed, usually a caustic such as
sodium hydroxide. a) Continuous-flowclass(positive pres-
sure). Equipped with a loose-fitting face-
2) Oxygen-generatingsystemsutilize piece, tight-fitting facepiece, hood, or
suitable solid chemicals to supply need- helmet. At least 115 liters (4 cubic feet)
ed oxygen. Water vapor in the exhaled of air per minute for tight fitting face-
breath reacts with a chemical in the can- pieces and 170 liters (6 cubic feet) of air
ister that releases oxygen. Carbon diox- per minute for loose-fitting facepieces,
ide is scrubbed from the exhaled breath helmets, and hoods is required;
by a chemical in the canister.
b) Demandtype(negativepressure).
b) Open-circuit SCBA. In this type, breath-
Equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece
ing gas isexhaled to the surrounding envi-
only. The demand valve permits flow of
ronment after use ratherthan recirculated. air only during inhalation;
The equipment is simplerand cheaper than
the closed-circuit apparatus. Typical dura- c) Pressure-demandtype(positive
tion of use is30 minutes to l hour. Breathing pressure). Equippedwithatight-fitting
gas is usually compressed air, but systems facepieceonly. A positivepressureis
that use compressed oxygen or cryogenic air normally maintained in the facepiece. Air
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
have been developed. It is available in both flows when pressure inside the facepiece
negative-pressure and positive-pressure is reduced because of leakage or inhala-
(pressure-demand)configurations.Be- tion.
cause of the increased protection provided
by positive-pressure open-circuit SCBA, A.9.1.3 Combination-type airline resplra-
these are recommended over negative-pres- tors with self-contained airsupply
sure systems.
These types of respiratory devices combine
c) Escape SCBA. SCBA designedfor the capabilities of a supplied-air respirator
escape are similar to the types described and self-contained breathing apparatus into a
above, except the use duration tendsto be single device.
shorter, typically 5,7 , or 10 minutes. When
certified for escape only, the respirators may Such combination devices are certified by
not be used to enter a hazardous atmo- NIOSH in accordance with the requirements
sphere. Since these SCBA are certified for for self-contained breathing apparatus and
escape only, assigned protection factors may be used for:
were not established for this category of res- - situations requiring extended work peri-
pirator. ods where the self-contained air supply
alone does not provide sufficient time. In
A.9.1.2 Alrllne respirators this situation, the wearer may connect to an
Respirable air is supplied through ahose from airline to afford additional service time;
a compressor or compressed air cylinder(s). - situations requiring the use of a self-con-
The hose is attached to the wearer by a belt tained breathing apparatus only.
or other suitable means and can be detached
rapidly in an emergency. A flow-control valve These combination devices are generally
or orifice is provided to govern the rate of air divided into the following two groups:
27
ANSI 288.2-1 992
- Combination-typesupplied-airrespira- This standard does not address the respirato-

tors equipped with a self-contained air ry protection program necessary to ensure
supply having a rated service life of 15 safety with the use of suits.
minutes or more. These may be used to
enteranIDLHatmospherebreathing A.9.2 Air-purifying respirators
from the self-contained air supply, provid-
Ambient air is passed through an air-purify-
ed that not more than 20 percent of the
ingelement,whichremovesaerosols,
rated self-contained airsupply is used dur-
vapors, gases, or a combination of these
ing entry;
contaminants.Innegative-pressuretype,
- Combination-typesupplied-airrespira- breathing draws air through the air-purifying
tors equipped with a self-contained air element. The negative-pressure type is
supply having a rated service life of less equippedwitha tight-fitting facepiece. The
than 15 minutes. These may be used to powered type contains a blower, stationary
enter an IDLH atmosphere only if connect- or carried by the wearer, which passes ambi-
ed to the supplied air source. The self- ent air through an air-purifying element and
contained air supply in this case is only to then supplies purified air to the respiratory
be used for egress purposes. inlet
covering.Thepowered type is
equipped with a tight- or loose-fitting face-
Users shall always carefully read and under- piece, helmet, hood, or suit.
standtherequirementsandlimitations
detailed on the device’s NIOSH certification A.9.2.1Vapor- and gas-removing respira-
label. tors
These respirators are equipped with car-
A.9.1.4 suits tridge(s) or canister(s) to remove a single
Suits are a class of respirator that includes vapor or gas (for example, chlorine gas), a
both skin and inhalation protection in the single class of vapors or gases (for example,
same unit. Respirable air is supplied through organic vapors), or a combination of two or
airlines and is self-contained or powered-air more classes of vapors or gases (for example,
purifiers. This class does not include chemical organic vapors and acid gases) from air.
protective clothing that is used with respirato-
ry protection such as fully encapsulating gar- A.9.2.2 Aerosol-removing respirators
ments commonly used with SCBA’s in haz- These respirators are equipped with filter(s) to
ardous material sites. remove a single type of aerosol (for example,
dust) or a combination of two or more types
At this time, there is no NIOSH approval
schedule for
suppliedair
suits.
The (for example, dust and fume) from air. The fil-
Department of Energy (DOE)has a testing ter may be a replaceable part or a permanent
andacceptancescheduledescribedin part of the respirator.
“Acceptance-Testing Procedures for Air-Line A.9.2.3 Combination aerosol- and vapor-
Supplied-Air Suits,” LD-10156-MS, June 1984. and gas-removing respirators
The approval system functions only for the
DOE, who grants permission for use of the These respirators are equipped with car-
suit to a contractor after certain conditions tridge(s) or canister(s) to remove aerosol,
have been satisfied. A series of tests are per- vapors, and gases from air. The filter may be
formed on the suit, but in addition, the proce- a permanent or a replaceable part of the car-
dures for use of the suit in the workplace are tridge.
reviewed, as well as actual observations of
theseprocedures. The permissionthatis A.9.2.4 Combination atmosphere-supply=
granted is for use of the suit by the contractor ing and air-purifying respirators
at specified locations under the approved pro- These respirators can be used in either an
cedures. This differs from theNIOSH certifi- atmosphere-supplying or air-purifying mode.
cation, which in effect, can only state that the The air-purifying element provides protection
device meets defined test criteria. while the air supply is not used.
28
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ANSI 288.2-1992
A.10 Considerations for use of respira- A.10.1.2 Airline respirators

tors Since the air supply can be interrupted, their
use is limited to situations from which the
A.lO.l Atmosphere-supplyingrespirators wearer can escape unharmed without the aid
Atmosphere-supplying respirators provide of the respirator. The wearer is restricted in
protection against toxic and oxygen-deficient movement by the hose and must return to a
atmospheres. The breathing atmosphere is respirable atmosphere by retracing his or her
supplied from an uncontaminated source. route of entry. The hose is subject to being
severed, pinched off, or disconnected.
Except for some suits, no protection is provid-
ed against skin irritation by materials such as A.10.1.3 Combination airline respirators
ammonia and hydrogen chloride, or against with auxiliary self-contained air supply
absorption through the skin by materials such The auxiliary self-contained air supply on this
as hydrogen cyanide, tritium, or organic phos- type of device allows the wearer to enter or
phate pesticides. Use of atmosphere-supply- escape from a hazardous atmosphere.
ing respirators in atmospheres immediately
dangerous to life or health is limited to specif- A.10.2 Air-purifying respirators
ic devices under specified conditions (see Air-purifying respirators do not protect against
clause 7 ) . oxygen-deficient atmospheres, skin irritation,
or absorption of contaminants through the
A.lO.l.l Self-contained Breathing Appara- skin.
tus (SCBA)
The maximum contaminant concentration
The period during which the device will pro- against which an air-purifying respirator will
vide protection is limited by the amount of air protect is determined by the design efficiency
or oxygen in the apparatus, the ambient atmo- and capacity of the cartridge, canister, or filter
spheric pressure (service life of open-circuit and the facepiece to face seal on the user.
devices is cut in half by a doubling of the For gases and vapors, the maximum concen-
atmospheric pressure), and the type of work tration for which the air-purifying element is
being performed. SomeSCBA devices have designed may be specified by the rnanufactur-
a short service life (less than 15 minutes) and er or regulatory agency.
are suitable only for escape (self rescue) from
a hazardous atmosphere. The time period over which protection is pro-
vided is dependent on the canister, cartridge,
Important considerations in using SCBA are or filter type; the concentration of contami-
their weight, bulk, service life, and the training nant; the temperature and humidity levels in
required for their maintenance and safe use. the ambient atmosphere; the wearer’s respira-
For example, closed-circuit SCBA are gener- tory rate, etc.
ally designed to provide an extended rated
service life of greater than 1 hour compared to The proper type of canister, cartridge, or filter
open-circuitSCBA,whichareprimarily shall be selected for the particular contami-
designed to provide a rated service life of 1 nants and operational conditions.
hour or less. Nonpowered air-purifying respirators may
cause discomfort due to a noticeable resis-
Closed-circuit and open-circuit SCBA are tance to inhalation. These devices do have
available in either the negative- or positive- the advantage of being small, light, and sirn-
pressure mode. Negative-pressure or ple in operation.
demand-type SCBA are not designed to main-
tain positive pressure in the respiratory inlet A.10.2.1 Vapor- and gas-removing respira-
covering during inhalation. Positive-pressure tors
or pressure-demand type SCBA are designed No protection is provided against aerosol con-
to maintain positive pressure during inhalation
taminants.
and exhalation. This is usually accomplished
by spring loading such components as breath- Use in atmospheres where the contaminant(s)
ing bags, regulators, and exhalation valves. lacks sufficient warning properties (that is,
29
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
ANSI 288.2-1 992
odor, taste, or irritation at a concentration in Such general considerations include (in addi-
air at no greater than the exposure limit(s)), tion to moisture content requirements for air in
requires an end-of-service-life indicator or a the standard):
determination of sorbent life. It is recommend-
ed that a cartridge replacement schedule be
- the checking of all connections that may
be affectedwhen exposed to low tempera-
used instead of relying on warning properties
tures;
for the determinationof the end-of-service life.
A.10.2.2 Aerosol-removing respirators
- the proper storage of elastomeric com-
ponents such as facepieces and breathing
Protection againstaerosolsonly. No protec- tubes that may be prone to distortion if
tion against gases and vapors. improperly stored in coldweather (such dis-
torted components as facepieces couldpre-
A.10.2.3 Combination partlculate- and va-
vent the user from attaining an adequate fit);
por- and gas-removing respirators
The advantages and disadvantages of the
- the availability of accessories and other
components that are specially designedto
component sections of the combination respi-
withstand cold temperatures. This includes
rator as described above apply. special elastomeric gaskets anddiaphragms
A.10.2.4 Combinationatmosphere-supply- that are designed to retain their elasticity at
lng and air-purifying respirators low temperatures.
The advantages and disadvantages, ex- At very low atmospheric temperatures, the
pressed in A.lO.l and A.10.2of the mode of valves of a respirator may freeze open or
operation being used will govern. closed due to the presence of moisture.
Some supplied-air respirators are approved
with a device called a vortex tube to warm the
A.ll Low-temperatureenvironments
air supplied to the respiratory inlet covering of
the respirator.
A low-temperatureenvironment may causefog-
ging of the lens in a respiratory inlet covering
and freezing or improper sealing of the valves.
Coating the inside surface of the lens may A.12 High-temperature environments
inhibit fogging at low atmospheric temperatures
approaching 0°C (32°F). Full facepieces are A person working in anatmosphere having a
available with nose cupsthat direct the warm high temperature is under stress. Wearing a
and moist exhaled air through the exhalation respirator in such an environment creates addi-
valve without contacting the lens. Facepieces tional stress on the person. The additional
with nose cups may provide satisfactory vision stress should be minimized by using a light-
at temperatures as low as -32°C (-25OF). weight respirator, offering a low resistanceto
It is important to note that self-contained breathing and minimal dead-air space.
breathing apparatus equipped with a full face- Dead-air volume is the volume of previously
piece and certified for use below 32OF shall exhaled air remaining in a respiratory inlet
be equipped with a nose cup or other suitable covering that is available to be inhaled.
accessory or coating to maintain the device’s Reducing the amount of dead-air volume in a
NIOSH certification when used in environ- respirator reduces the level of carbon dioxide
ments below 32OF. (CO,) in the inhaled air, which is a major
Additionally, there are several other important source of respirator-usage-related stress.
considerations that users shall be aware of This can be accomplished through the use of
powered air-purifying respirators, continuous-
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
when using SCBA in a low-temperature envi-

flow supplied-air respirators, use of a half-
ronment. Users should thoroughly review the
manufacturer’s instructions and, if necessary, facepiece respirator in lieu of a full facepiece,
consult with the manufacturer to become thor- or use of a nose cup in full-facepiece devices
oughly familiar with the precautions and rec- (regardless of the mode of operation).
ommendations of using a specific SCBA in A supplied-air respirator is recommended for
cold-weather conditions. use in a high-temperature environment.
30
A N S I 288.2 92 m 0724l150 0508453 084 m
ANSI 288.2-1992
Supplied-air respirators approved with a vor- 3) Not all facepiece respirators are
tex tube will substantially reduce the tempera- available with speaking diaphragms.
ture of theairsupplied to therespirator. If Check with the equipment manufacturer
air-purifying respirators are to be used, a half- for availability;
facepiece respirator, where it offers adequate
protection, is preferable to the full facepiece. b) Built-in microphones: Some respirator
manufacturers make available small micro-
Elastomeric components of respirators stored phones that are mounted inside, or connect-
in high-temperature environments may deteri- ed to, the respiratory inlet covering. The
orate at an accelerated rate and the facepiece microphone may be connected to a radio,
may become permanently distorted. Special telephone, loudspeaker, or other means of
care shall be used to prevent facepiece distor- electronic transmittal. Two considerations
tion.Inspection frequency should beestab- are:
lished considering the effects of high tempera-
tures. 1) Any component that is attached to or
through the respiratory inlet covering
may affect its function. In cases in which
components are provided by the manu-
A.13 Verbal communications facturer, strict adherence to the installa-
tion instructions and leak test procedures
Verbal communications in a noisy industrial is necessary to ensure that the airtight
environment can be difficult. It is important to integrity is maintained;
ensure that respirator wearers can comfortably 2) Voice-actuated-typecommunication
communicate when necessary, because a systems may cause continuous sound
worker who is speakingvery loudly or yelling pickup of the blower when used with
may cause a facepiece seal leak, and the work- powered air-purifying respirators, or air
er may be tempted to temporarily dislodge the flow noise when used with supplied-air
device to communicate. Both situations are devices;
undesirable.
c) Hand or coded signals: A predetermined
There are several options that may be em- set of signals may be useful in communicat-
ployed to aid communications when wearing ing:
respirators:
d) Cranial,throat, or ear microphones:
a) Speakingdiaphragms: A speaking Cranial and throat microphones are held in
diaphragm consists of a resonating surface place with a harness against the wearer’s
and cavity that vibrates during speech, head or larynx, respectively. Ear micro-
thereby amplifying the wearer’s voice out- phones are worn in the same manner as a
side of the respirator. transistor radio earphone and function as
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Several points must be considered when both a microphone and speaker. Use of
using speaking diaphragms: these devices does not require making pen-
etrations or attachments to the respirator,
1) Theyarekeycomponents in main- and does not impact the NIOSH certification
taining the airtight integrity of the face- status. They may be used with radios, tele-
piece requiring care when installing and phones, loudspeakers, or other means of
handling: electronic transmittal, similar to facepiece
2) Use of a respirator having a speaking microphones:
diaphragm during welding, cutting, burn- Considerations when using these devices
ing, or grinding operations is of special
are:
concern, as flying sparks may burn a
hole in the diaphragm, thereby creating a 1) Cranialmicrophonesshallnever
leak.Somemanufacturershavecom- be placed under the head harness of
pensated for these applications by pro- facepiece respirators since their dis-
viding shrouds to cover the diaphragm or lodgement may loosen the respirator
by using metal diaphragms; straps:
31
ANSI 288.2-1992
2) When connectingwiresarepassed tive is to hold the handset or microphone to

underneath the bibs or neck seals of the wearer'sthroat while speaking;
supplied-air hoods or helmets, they shall
1) Safetyconsiderations:Electronicde-
be attached to the worker's body to avoid
vices shall be selected and used with cau-
disturbing the bib positioning;
tion in explosive atmospheres. Ensure that
e) Use of telephone handsets: Since a per- all such devices comply with requirements
son exhales while speaking, the exhalation for permissibility and intrinsic safety. The
valve in a facepiece respirator is partially effect of radio frequency emissions should
open. This is a perfect location to placea be consideredwhen utilizing such devices in
handset or hand-held microphoneto obtain the vicinity of sensitive electronic equip-
the clearest voice transmission. An alterna- ment.
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A N S I 2 8 8 . 2 92 W 0724350 0508455 957
ANSI 288.2-1 992
Annex B
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
(informative)
Further research needs
In revising this standard, the committee had to project and field evaluation effort are needed
use the best judgment of the members to to answer these questions.
answer some of the questions posed in rewrit-
Certification tests for both filter and adsorbent
ing this standard. To rely less on judgment, cartridges and canisters have not been
further research is needed in several areas. revised since 1972, and many of the current
These include performance of respirators
tests do not reflect realistic workplace use
under use conditions, standard methods for conditions.Newtestmethodsneed to be
cartridge performance determinations, effect developed and validated, which address filter
of facial hair on the performance of supplied-
efficiency as a function of particle size, vapor
air respirators, the monitoring of carbon adsorption capacity, realistic temperature
monoxide in breathing air, and the critical oxy- extremes, and relative humidity, as well as
gen concentration at which a supplied-air res-
variable work rates. The need to develop con-
pirator is needed.
sistent guidance for cartridge change sched-
Methods of assigning respirator protection fac- ules based on workplace performance must
tors need to be studied, and appropriate also be addressed.
experiments performed by several indepen- The current standard does not permit any
dent investigators to generate the data need- facial hair in the sealing surface of any tight-
ed to calculate a table of assigned protection fitting respirator. However, insufficientinfor-
factors (APFs). The APFs in this table need mation is available to determine if supplied-air
to be internally consistent. New styles of res- respirators can be used by bearded people in
pirators have been developed (for example, work situations requiring low levels of protec-
elastomeric disposable half masks and hoods tion. If this were feasible, more personal free-
with a suit top), but no laboratory or field test dom could be allowed.
data has been published to allow a compari-
son to familiar styles. The present practice of Two requirements that were in the 1980 revi-
grouping them with existing styles may not be sion of this standard have been changed in a
appropriate. manner that is perceived by some to be less
safe. This has resulted in some negative com-
The need for the respirator program adminis- ments. One of these changes is the substitu-
trators to recognize their responsibility to tion of periodic testing for carbon monoxide in
determine the effectiveness of respirator per- breathing air for the requirement that CO mon-
formance cannot be emphasized enough. itors or temperature alarms be used with oil-
Recommended test methods to carry out lubricated compressors. The other is lowering
these workplace respirator performance evalu- the IDLH concentration for oxygen deficiency
ations need to be developed and validated so from 14% to 12.5% and lowering the concen-
they can be easily used in the field. Results tration at which supplied air must be used from
from these studies will provide the database to 19.5% to 16%. Thesechangeswere made
evaluate the appropriateness of existing APFs because no reasons could be found to justify
as well as the need for different values the more restrictiverequirements. The new
depending on job assignment. requirements were based upon the best avail-
able technical and experiential information.
The question of what constitutes a respirator These situations need to be monitored in order
certification test and what constitutes a respi- to provide data for fine tuning of the require-
rator field performance test also requires addi- ments, if needed.Thereduction of oxygen
tional evaluation and study. The proposal to concentration due to carbon dioxide buildup in
combine the two in the area of respirator pro- the facepiece needs to be studied and its
tection factors for selection purposes may be importance considered both at ambient and
incorrect. A major research and development reduced oxygen concentrations.
33
-
A N S I Z88 2 072435 O
ANSI 288.2-1 992
Annex C
(informative)
Bibliography
ANSI 287.1 -1989 {and its supplement, ANSI287.1a-1991), Practice for occupationaland educa-
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ANSI 288.3-1983, Respiratory protection - Protection during fumigation
ANSI 288.5-1981 , Practices for respiratory protection for the fire service
ANSI 288.7, Identification of air-purifying respirator canisters andcartridges 6,
ANSUNFPA 1500-1987, Fire departmentoccupational safety and health program
ANSVNFPA 1981- 1987, Open-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus forfire fighters
NFPA FSP-296-1975, Breathing apparatus forthe fire service, A fire officer's guide
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NlOSH 87-108, NlOSH respirator decision logic
NlOSH 87-1 16,A guide to industrial respiratory protection
NlOSH 90-117, NlOSH pocketguide to chemical hazards
--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
NlOSH certified equipment list (October 1986) (supplements published periodically)
NlOSH certified personal protective equipment, Title30, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1 1a)
NUREG 0041, October 1976, Manual of respiratory protection against airborne radioactive materials
9,
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lo)
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Threshold limit values and biological exposure indices (published annually) 13)
Clayton, G. D., and Clayton, F. E. (Editors), Patty's lndustrial Hygiene and Toxicology,Volumes 1-111,
revised edition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, NY; 1981-1985
Cornroe, J. H., Physiology of Respiration, Yearbook Medical Publishers, Inc., 1965
6, This standard is currently under development. Contact the secretariat for more recent information.
Available from the National Fire Protection Association, P.O. Box 9101, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy MA
02269-9101.
Available from Publications Dissemination, DSDTT, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226.
9, Available from U.S.Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
lo) Available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.Government Printing Office, Washington, OC
20402.
11) Available from the U.S.Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines.
12) Available from the American Industrial Hygiene Association, 345 White Pond Drive, Akron, OH 44320.
13) Available from the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 6500 Glenway Ave., Bldg.
D-7, Cincinnati, OH 4521 1-4438.
34

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--````,``,``,`,,,,,`,`,```,`,,,`,,,,``,```,````,,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Approved August 6,1992

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI

Standard Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of

American National Standards institute

Copyright O 1992 by American National Standards Institute

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any

Printed in the United States of America

OrganizationRepresented Name of Representative

International Union of Bricklayers ...................................... Albert R. Couillard

The 288 Committee acknowledges the contributions of the following individ-

Subcommittee 288.2 on Practices for Respiratory Protection, which revised

*Participated as a nonvoting NIOSH advisor.

American National Standard

1 Scope and purpose advisory in nature where the word “should” is

ANSI 288.2-1 992

3 Definitions 3.13 confinedspace: An enclosed space

ANSI 288.2-1 992

ANSI 288.2-1 992

3.43 pressure-demandrespirator: A posi- 3.56 vapor: Thegaseousphase of matter

trol measures (for example, enclosure or con-

3.55 tlme-welghtedaverage (TWA): The - malfunction of the respirator;

- increase in resistance of respirator dur- 4.5.2 Standard operatlng procedures

Table 1 - Assigned protection factors

Half Full Helmet/ Loose-fitting

g) respirator-assigned protectionfactors list- b) the engineering and administrative con-

ANSI 288.2-1 992

revised by the employer as necessary. The potentially flammable or explosive envi-

ANSI 288.2-1 992

g) Determine whether the contaminant(s) h) If the contaminant is a paint, lacquer, or

numerousdeathsandseriousinjuries. supplied air respiratorisrequired.Table 2

ANSI 288.2-1 992

7.4 Abrasive blasting 7.5.4.2 The head harness straps of tight-fit-

ously demonstrated that he or she has had

- principles and criteria for selecting respi- - Instructionsinemergencyprocedures

designed to assess fit factors 1 O times greater 9.1.7

ANSI 288.2-1 992

Table 3 - Periodic air sampling guidancefor purchased breathing respirable gas

National Institute of Standards and Technolo- 10.5.2Special considerations foroxygen

5) See Clause 2, Normative references.

ANSI 288.2-1 992

Table 4 - Periodic air sampling guidance for compresslon

tored closely to ensure air supplied to the compressor is of adequate quality.

10.5.4.2 Acompressor shall be constructed a representative sample should be taken at

ANSI 288.2-1 992

A.l Approval agencies A.2 Lists of approved respirators

ANSI 288.2-1 992

Although it is recognized that the concentra- i) Attachfilters,cartridges,andcanisters

becorrosive to metallicparts.Immersion The effect of oxygen deficiency on the body is

A.5.1 Introduction When people who are not acclimatized work

ANSI 288.2-1 992

ANSI 288.2-1 992

carry out onvalveless respirators. Theinlet

andtherespiratorwearer’s face. For some A.7.1.5 sensitizers: Substances that cause

acidic mists, alkalies).

reactions (for example, pollens, spices, ani-

A.8 Classification of respiratory haz-

1) Storedoxygensystemssupplyoxy- flow to the wearer. Exhaled air passes to the