Respiratory protection program
respiratory protection program RPP
😷 WRITTEN RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM (RPP)
Fireproofing Operations (Cementitious, Intumescent, & Board)
Applicable Standard: 29 CFR 1910.134 (OSHA)
1. Purpose & Scope
2. Program Administrator
3. Selection of Respirators (Fireproofing Specific)
| Task | Hazard | Respirator Type | Assigned Protection Factor (APF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixing Dry Cementitious | Silica Dust | ||
| Spraying (Cementitious) | Silica / Particulates | ||
| Spraying (Intumescent) | VOCs (Xylene, Toluene) | ||
| Confined Space / High Heat | Multiple | ||
| Emergency Response / IDLH | Unknown |
4. Medical Evaluations (Mandatory)
Per 29 CFR 1910.134(e), no employee is permitted to wear a tight-fitting respirator (including N95) unless they have been medically cleared by a physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP).
- Mandatory Questionnaire: Employees must complete Appendix C of 1910.134 (the OSHA Medical Evaluation Questionnaire).
- Confidentiality: The employer does not review the answers. The PLHCP receives the questionnaire directly.
- Frequency: A medical evaluation is required before initial fit testing/use; if the employee reports symptoms (shortness of breath, dizziness); if a supervisor or PLHCP recommends re-evaluation.
5. Fit Testing (Annual & Clean-Shaven Policy)
Per 29 CFR 1910.134(f), all employees using tight-fitting respirators must pass a fit test before initial use and annually thereafter.
- Clean-Shaven Requirement: No facial hair is permitted where the respirator sealing surface contacts the face. Beards, stubble (longer than 24 hours growth), and goatees that interfere with the seal are prohibited.
- Testing Protocol: We will use either Qualitative (QLFT) (e.g., Bitrex or Saccharin) for half-masks or Quantitative (QNFT) (PortaCount) for full-facepieces.
6. User Seal Checks (Every Use)
Employees must perform a User Seal Check every time they don the respirator (Appendix B-1):
- Positive Pressure Check: Cover exhalation valve; exhale gently. No air leaks.
- Negative Pressure Check: Cover cartridges/filter; inhale gently. Facepiece collapses slightly.
7. Cartridge Change Schedule (Intumescent Work)
| Usage Level | Change Schedule |
|---|---|
| Light Use (< 2 hrs/day) | |
| Moderate Use (4-6 hrs/day) | |
| Heavy Use (Full shift) | |
| Immediate Change |
8. Maintenance, Cleaning, & Storage
- Cleaning: Respirators shared between workers must be cleaned and disinfected after each use. Exclusive-use respirators must be cleaned as often as necessary to maintain sanitation.
- Storage: Respirators must be stored in a clean, sealed bag/container away from solvent vapors and extreme temperatures.
- Inspection: Employees must inspect cartridges, straps, and valves for cracks, swelling, or hardness before each use.
9. Training & Information
- Frequency: Training will be provided prior to initial use and annually (or more often if new hazards are introduced).
- Content: Training includes the health effects of silica/solvents, donning/doffing procedures, and limitations of the respirator.
10. Program Evaluation
The Program Administrator will evaluate the workplace annually or after any significant change in process (e.g., switching from water-based intumescent to solvent-based) to ensure the program remains effective.
Employee Acknowledgment Sign-off (To be kept on file)
I acknowledge that I have received medical clearance, passed a fit test for my specific mask model/size, and understand that I must be clean-shaven on the sealing surface of the respirator.
| Employee Name (Print) | Signature | Date | Respirator Make/Model/Size |
|---|---|---|---|
Fit Testing Log
| Employee Name | Fit Test Date | Mask Make/Model | Test Method (QLFT/QNFT) | Pass/Fail | Tester |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|