Always inspect and clean a new respirator before the first use. Respirators should be inspected, cleaned and disinfected after each use. Examine each part of the respirator for defects and replace* any defective parts.

Respirators NOT in regular use but place in the workplace or issued to individuals for emergency use MUST be inspected at least every 30 days.

1. Examine elastomeric portion of the facepiece for rips, tears, holes, deformations, cracks, stiffening or signs of aging
2. Examine head straps and harness for breaks, cuts, frays, tears, loss of elasticity and missing or damaged hardware
3. Examine filter inlet to verify proper condition of threads
4. Examine the inhalation and exhalation valves and valve seats for cracks or foreign substance which may not allow to valves to close completely. Verify that the valves are not distorted or missing and that valves have not become stiffened, distorted or decomposed
5. Examine lens on full face respirator for cracks, excessive scratches or other damage
6. Examine filtration media for physical condition. Be sure expiration date printed on the filtration media label has not passed. Be sure not more than one year has passed since filtration media was put in service
7. Examine rubber filter clips to ensure they are distorted, decomposed or contain cuts
8. Examine rubber gaskets to ensure they are not distorted or show signs of any cuts, cracks or scratches

Correct any deficiencies immediately or tag the respirator as in need of repair and remove from service.

*NOTE:   Replacement parts must be from the same manufacturer and must be for the same model respirator. If other parts are substituted, the manufacturer’s guarantee is not valid, and the respirator may not function as designed. If you are in doubt, ask your supervisor.