collected by the protective barrier. OSHA requires that respirator cartridges be replaced at pre-determined intervals based on worksite-specific usage conditions [4]. A cartridge life-expectancy calculator is very easy to use. Simply answer a minimal number of questions by entering key environmental and usage factors. The calculator then provides a suggested maximum service time for the cartridge(s) being used in that specific environment. Although cartridge calculators may vary somewhat, they all require the same basic input: • Chemical hazard and concentration • Temperature • Relative humidity • Atmospheric pressure or altitude • Type of respirator and cartridge • Type of work and average breathing rate (light, moderate or heavy) • Breakthrough concentration preference • Safety factor When using a cartridge life-expectancy calculator you must remember that this tool provides a guideline for your final decision on cartridge replacement. Several other factors should also be considered, such as changes in conditions during the work shift, changing climate conditions (seasonal changes), condition of the cartridge or respirator, cartridge storage con-
ditions, accuracy in determining the ambient conditions and user training experience. Ultimately, the appropriate change-out schedule must be developed by a qualified professional. Manufacturer training programs. The third tool is the training programs that are available from respirator manufacturers. In addition
to onsite training, some respirator manufacturers offer online programs through their websites. As part of an effective training program, the user may be required to pass a test about the respirator, including how to wear and maintain it. An employee training program is required by OSHA. ■ Edited by Dorothy Lozowski
References 1. A list of NIOSH-approved respirators can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/cel/ 2. About ANSI Overview, http://ansi.org/about_ a n s i / o v e r v i e w / o v e r v i e w. a s p x ? m e n u i d =1 (accessed September 18, 2012) 3. The ANSI/AIHA Z88.2 “Standard Practices for Respiratory Protection” is available on the ANSI website, www.ansi.org 4. Federal Register, p. 1272, col.1 OSHA 1910.134(d)(3)(iii)
Get more out of your coal. Only too often do we fail to see the treasures that are right in front of us. With our solids gasification technology you can make more out of any feedstock. Why not contact us: you might just be surprised! As a leading EPC contractor, we also have a proprietary portfolio of technologies. And we network intelligently within the ThyssenKrupp Uhde group based on our business philosophy Engineering with ideas.
Author Dennis Capizzi is the product line manager for air purifying respirators at MSA Safety (1100 Cranberry Woods Dr., Cranberry Twp., PA, 16066; Phone: 724-7768600; Email: dennis.capizzi@ MSAsafety.com), where he has worked since 2007. He serves as head of the North American Air-Purifying Respirator Steering Team, and has a seat on the International Safety Equipment Assn.’s Committee for Respiratory Protective Escape Devices.
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