Maintenance of RPE
A PCBU must ensure that RPE is maintained , repaired or replaced so that it continues to be effective . A competent person should administer an RPE maintenance program in accordance with the manufacturer ’ s instructions .
A maintenance program should include procedures for :
− daily cleaning and inspection of RPE by the worker for wear , damage and flat batteries
− appropriate storage : o each worker should be provided with a dry , clean and sealed container to store their RPE o clean , dry RPE should be stored away from dust and out of direct sunlight , and o face pieces should be stored so that they are not subject to distortion
− identification and repair or replacement of any worn or defective components of the equipment including filters ( including availability of replacement parts )
− regular periodic inspection , maintenance and testing of RPE in accordance with the manufacturer ’ s instructions
− record keeping , including :
o details of any issues , including the date o user records including training provided o fit testing records for each worker including :
• type of test performed
• make , model , style and size of respirator tested
• date of the test
• result of the test o maintenance records including filter replacement and RPE maintenance schedules , and o RPE program records , including procedures for use and audits or evaluations .
An RPE maintenance program should also consider the environmental conditions the RPE is being used or stored in ( for example , hot work vehicles ) as the rubber seals may deteriorate and require replacing more frequently .
WHS Regulation clause 38 Review of control measures
A PCBU must routinely review the control measures they have put in place to ensure they are effective and protect the health and safety of their workers .
Undertaking air monitoring to measure the airborne concentration of silica dust in the workplace is one way to check the effectiveness of controls .
If control measures are not working effectively , a PCBU must revise them to ensure effective risk control measures are implemented . A PCBU can use the same steps that were taken during the initial hazard identification to check control measures .
A PCBU must consult with their workers and , where applicable , their HSRs . They should consider :
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