When you put on a respirator, what should you do to ensure it provides adequate protection?

• A. Only perform a facial seal check.
• B. Check the expiration date on the cartridge.
• C. Replace the respirator every hour.
• D. Ensure the respirator has an appropriate assigned protection factor and inspect for tears and missing components, and perform positive and negative pressure face-seal checks.

Answer: (D)

Protective respirators only work if they’re the right type for the hazard, fit properly, and are in good condition. Start by confirming the respirator has an appropriate assigned protection factor for the task, so the level of protection matches the exposure. Then inspect the respirator for damage or missing components, such as tears in the facepiece or straps, since any flaw can let contaminated air in. Finally, perform both positive and negative pressure seal checks to verify a proper fit: exhale to test for leaks around the face seal (positive-pressure check) and inhale to see if the facepiece pulls in slightly and holds the seal (negative-pressure check). Together, these steps help ensure the respirator will provide the intended protection, not just be worn.