The Importance of Proper Respiratory Protection Training

In some workplaces, simply taking a breath could be dangerous. A 2023 study shows that over 10% of lung diseases worldwide are caused by workplace exposure. The risks could include asthma, lung cancer, and asbestosis just from showing up for work without proper protection.

However, it doesn't have to be that way. Respiratory protection training can give workers the skills they need to protect their own health and promote workplace wellness. You only get one chance to get respiratory protection right, so it's essential to engage in this training as soon as possible.

Let's take a look at how respiratory protection training can help with protecting your health.

Why Is Respiratory Protection Training Crucial?

The human respiratory system is essential to life, yet also very delicate. Inhaling pollutants regularly can affect its ability to take in oxygen and expel waste gases. This may begin with mild irritation but then lead to life-threatening illnesses.

Some of these include:

• Asthma
• Asbestosis
• Silicosis
• Brown lung disease
• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Our understanding of how to prevent respiratory illnesses is better than ever. Respiratory protection training can help you or your employees to:

• Identify respiratory hazards
• Select the correct personal protective equipment
• How to use respirators and other equipment correctly
• How to reduce the risk of exposure to pollutants at work

Construction and heavy industry are not the only workplaces that need respiratory protection training. 

Who Needs Respiratory Protection Training?

Anyone who works in an environment that requires respiratory protection needs this training. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires respiratory protection in certain contexts.

Additionally, many employers go the extra mile to protect the respiratory health of their workers. Even though OSHA does not require it, your employer may ask you to wear a respirator at certain times. This can give them peace of mind that you can maintain your health and avoid serious injury while on the job.

Workplaces That Need Respiratory Protection

Many workplace situations can lead to exposure to pollutants that cause respiratory problems. Some scenarios include:

• Asbestos exposure: We understand the risks of asbestos much better now. However, there is still a danger of exposure in the construction industry. It's vital to use respiratory protection when repairing, renovating, or maintaining properties.

• Mining: Breathing coal dust can lead to black lung disease. Another possible condition caused by mining is coal worker's pneumoconiosis.

• Healthcare: As the global pandemic demonstrated, respiratory protection in healthcare saves lives. Choosing the right respirators is crucial for workplace safety in healthcare settings.

• Foundries and blasting operations: Can affect lung health due to exposure to airborne crystalline silica.

• Shipyard workers: Dock workers may come into contact with a huge range of hazardous materials. Knowing how to protect your respiratory health is crucial to prevent long-term illnesses.

The precise risks and precautions needed vary from industry to industry. This underlines the importance of accessing the right training before starting a new job. It's also crucial to retrain even if you're moving to a new role in the same organization.

What If I Only Use a Respirator Occasionally?

Even if you do not have to use a respirator every day, it's still essential to access this training. For example, you may only need to use one during service or maintenance operations. Other jobs may require you to use them in an emergency.

Proper training is vital, regardless of how frequently or infrequently you need to use them. When the time comes, you need to feel confident grabbing the right respirator and using it correctly.

The Law on Respiratory Protection Training

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) publishes guidance to help employers protect the respiratory health of their workers. They are contained in the OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard 29 CFR 1910.134. It sets out the following requirements for workplaces where respirators are necessary:

• Employers must establish a written respirator program with tailored procedures for their workplace
• They must appoint a qualified program administrator
• They need to provide respirators, medical evaluations, and training for free to employees

If workers can use them voluntarily, employers must provide the information included in Appendix D of the standard mentioned above. This appendix outlines how to choose the right type of respirators for the job.

How Often Do You Need Respiratory Protection Training?

OSHA requires employees to receive training before they start work. They need retraining every year after that. If you move to another role with different requirements, you may need extra training.

Other times when you would need retraining include:

• When there's a change in your workplace conditions
• When new types of respirators become available
• If there are concerns about your level of knowledge

Respiratory protection training doesn't take much time, but it's time well spent. And if you access online respiratory protection training, the process could be even easier.

Benefits of Online Respiratory Protection Training

Online respiratory protection training is a simple way to access the training you need. It provides the same level of depth and rigor as classroom training. However, you can complete it at a time that suits you.

Among other things, the course covers:

• Understanding key terms
• Why employees need respirators
• The different types of respirators
• How to choose the right respirator for the situation
• How to fit test respirators

The course will help you feel confident and remain safe in your workplace. It will also help you to spot potential hazards and advise your coworkers, maintaining workplace safety for all. 

Trust Compliance Training Online for Respiratory Protection Training

Everyone should be able to do their job and maintain great health. Respiratory protection training can help you promote workplace safety from day one. From mining to healthcare, knowing how to use respiratory protection can keep you safe. It could even save your life and those of other people.

At Compliance Training Online, we are proud to offer a range of respiratory protection training courses. This includes tailored training for shipyard and workers and to meet OSHA and Cal/OSHA requirements.

Check out our course catalog today to find the right training for yourself or your employees.