Cleaning & Disinfecting Procedures

Appendix B-2 of 8 CCR 5144 provides general instructions for cleaning and disinfecting a respirator. These instructions may be replaced by the manufacturer's instructions as long as following the different instructions does not cause damage to the respirator or harm the user. The general instructions for cleaning and disinfecting respirators are as follows:

• Remove filters, canisters, or cartridges.
• Disassemble facepieces by removing the speaking diaphragm, valve assemblies, hoses, and any components recommended by the manufacturer.
• Discard or repair any defective parts.
• Wash components in warm water with a mild detergent or with a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.
• Use a stiff-bristled (not wire) brush to remove dirt.
• Rinse components in warm, running water.
• If the cleaner does not include a disinfectant, soak the components for two minutes in one of the following solutions:
  • One milliliter of laundry bleach diluted in one liter of water
  • 0.8 milliliters of tincture of iodine diluted in one liter of water
  • Other commercially available disinfectants that are equivalent, if approved or recommended by the manufacturer

To learn more about Respiratory Protection visit our Cal/OSHA Respiratory Protection Online Training web page.