Document bBbYJDKbaNVky97Dv4bogDM4y

RESPIRATORS AND PROTECTIVE DEVICES Three types of respirators will be available for use under various vinyl chloride concentration conditions. They include: The canister gas mask with one-'nalf facepiece for exposures up to 10 ppm. The Airline Respirator (continuous flow} for exposures up to 1,000 ppm. The Air-Pak for all exposures. Following is information related to these three types of respirators and their use. CANISTER GAS MASK Use of this canister mask is voluntary until January 1, 1976. Federal law provides for mandatory use of air-supplied respirators at concentrations above 25 parts per million until that date. January 1, 1976, approved respirators will be required for any exposures over 1 part per million. For employees who wish to utilize them, canister gas masks will be provided. This mask is a compact air purifying unit which provides respiratory protection against those gases, vapors and/or particulates for which the canister is recommended. The inhaled air is drawn through the canister, which contains granular chemicals, where the harmful gases or vapors are removed, ousts, mists, and other particulates as uu Leu uu caulsLer label are removed by an efficient filter. Fitting the Gas Mask 1. Remove the inlet seal on the bottom of the canister. Save for re-use. 2. Adjust the front canister harness so that the canister rests comfortably on the chest or hip of the wearer. The weight of the canister must be carried by the neck strap, rather than by the breathing tube. Adjust body straps so that canister is heldsecurely. 3. Pull both straps tight to insure a snug fit. The facepiece does not require excessive strap pressure to obtain a leakproof fit. Testing for Tightness Test gas mask for tightness by holding the palm of the hand tightly over bottom opening in canister or by squeezing a tight fold in the breathing tube. On inhaling, the facepiece should collapse and remain collapsed while the breath is held. If leakage is noted, investigate the source and correct. A tightness test must be made before each use. A chemical test will be conducted on individuals to determine which mask (MSA or Welsh) fits properly. If both masks fit, employees may choose the mask they prefer. BFG30765 Tooort'frz