Comprehensive training is essential to ensure that employees understand the importance of respiratory protection and are able to use respirators correctly and effectively. All employees required to use respirators will receive training before being required to use a respirator in the workplace, annually thereafter, and whenever there are changes in the workplace, respirator type, or program procedures.

OEHS will provide training (Online and/or In-person) to all respirator users and their supervisors on the following:

• Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance can compromise the protective effect of the respirator.
• What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are.
• How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, including situations in which the respirator malfunctions.
• How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals of the respirator.
• What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator.
• How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirators.
• Explanation of the WSU Respiratory Protection Program.
• The OSHA Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134) and MIOSHA Respiratory Protection Standard (Part 451).
• Respiratory hazards that may be encountered at WSU and their health effects.
• Proper selection and use of respirators.
• Respirator donning and user seal (fit) checks.
• Fit testing.
• Medical signs and symptoms limiting the effective use of respirators.
• Employees must demonstrate their understanding of the topics covered in the training through hands-on exercises and a written test.

Retraining

This training shall be presented in a manner that is understandable to the employee and prior to being assigned to a workplace requiring respirator usage. Retraining shall be administered annually, and when the following situations occur:

• Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render previous training obsolete.
• Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the respirator indicate that the employee has not retained the requisite understanding or skill.
• Any other situation arises in which retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

To schedule Respiratory Protection Training, contact OEHS at 313-577-1200 or oehs@wayne.edu.