Respirator inspection checklist

Before you use it

• OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134(h)(3)(i) requires respirators used in routine situations to be inspected before each use and during cleaning. Respirators kept for emergency use are inspected at least monthly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and checked for proper function before and after each use. Escape-only respirators are inspected before being carried into the workplace.
• Under 1910.134(h)(3)(ii) the inspection covers respirator function, tightness of connections and the condition of the facepiece, head straps, valves, connecting tube and cartridges, canisters or filters, plus elastomeric parts for pliability and signs of deterioration. SCBA are also inspected monthly, with cylinders kept fully charged and recharged when the pressure falls to 90% of the manufacturer’s recommended level (1910.134(h)(3)(iii)).
• For respirators maintained for emergency use, 1910.134(h)(3)(iv) requires a certification recording the inspection date, the inspector’s name or signature, the findings, the required remedial action and the respirator’s serial number or other identifier, kept on a tag or label with the respirator or in paper or electronic inspection reports.
• A respirator that fails inspection is removed from service and discarded, or repaired by an appropriately trained person using the manufacturer’s NIOSH-approved parts (1910.134(h)(4)). Remove the SCBA section if your site carries only air-purifying respirators.