News from the International Safety Equipment Association

ProtectionUPDATE

S P R I N G 2 0 0 3

By Jeffrey S. Birkner Moldex-Metric

Respiratory Protection is an importantconsideration to protect employees inthe construction trades. Construction

workers can be exposed to contaminantsthat are present in the air. These contami-nants can be those we can see and thosewe cannot.

Establishing a comprehensive respiratoryprotection program that accounts for theunique aspects of your company’s construc-tion workplace(s) is central to ensure thatyour workers are properly equipped andwearing respiratory protection when need-ed. After engineering controls haveremoved respiratory hazards where possi-ble, then you should ground your respirato-ry protection program on two fundamentals.

First, use only respirators that have beenapproved by the National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).These products are tested and evaluated forperformance, they are assigned TC num-bers, and bear the NIOSH logo.

Second, follow the U.S. Occupational

Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)standard 29 CFR1910.134, which outlinesthe minimum elements required for anacceptable comprehensive respiratory pro-tection program. This regulation is applica-ble to construction, as well as generalindustry, as noted in 29 CFR1926.103. Itexplains how the respirator should be used,the type of training that must be conducted,

the type of medical surveillance that mustbe done, the extent of the maintenance pro-gram, and required record keeping.

Depending on the nature of the hazard,it may be prudent to put in place a programthat exceeds OSHA’s minimums. In a10

Protection Updateis the newsletter for theISEA Partnership for WorkerProtection program. It isintended for anyone whospecifies, purchases or usespersonal protective equip-ment, and those who regu-late it. Protection Update isdistributed without charge,and also is available onISEA’s website www.safetye-quipment.org.

1901 North Moore StreetArlington, VA 22209-1762 USATelephone: (703) 525-1695Fax: (703) 528-2148Email: isea@safetyequipment.org

Daniel K. Shipp, Presidentdshipp@safetyequipment.org

Joseph L. Walker, Editorjwalker@safetyequipment.org

2 New Protection forRoad Constructors

6 Choosing theRight Mask

8 How to Ensure GasDetection SensorAccuracy

14 Making Construction Safer

16 Safety Equipment Works For You

i n t h i s i s s u e RespiratoryProtectionHow to Establish a Program

PHO

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Editor’s NoteWorkers in heavy construction are exposed to a variety of air contaminants that may begenerated by the work they are doing or the vehicular traffic that surrounds them. Thesecontaminants may be gases, vapors, dusts, fumes, smoke or mist. Despite these haz-ards, only about four in 10 workers in heavy construction use respiratory protectionwhen needed, according to ISEA-sponsored surveys in 2001 and 2002, leaving hun-dreds of thousands exposed to breathing hazards. While a great deal of recent attentionhas focused on gasmasks for combat and homeland defense, this issue of ProtectionUpdate will help enhance understanding about why respiratory protection is every bit asimportant for workers in heavy construction.

FOR BREATHING…From AOSafety/Aearo Co. is the EZ Drop™half-mask cartridge respirator with a uniqueslide-release strap that allows the wearer toquickly remove the respirator by unhookingthe neck buckle and allowing the respiratorto slide down the straps to “park” on thewearer’s chest. The respirator is available inthree sizes. 800-678-4163 or aearo.com.

From the Biosystems Division ofBacou-Dalloz is the Instrument Quality(IQ) docking system that automatically cali-brates and maintains up to 10 gas detec-tors. The IQstation con-nects to acentral data-base moni-tored by thesoftwarecomponent,which com-municates with the docking station and cre-ates custom templates and reports, accord-ing to the company. Biosystems.com orbacou-dalloz.com.

From Draeger Safety is the first 2003issue of Dräger Review magazine, whichincludes informative articles about respirato-ry protection during tunnel operations, thelatest in the company’s portable gas detec-tion technologies and systems, and an arti-cle about chemical protective suits. 800-615-5503 or draegerreview.com.

From Mine Safety Appliances Co. are:● Airhawk™ MMR air mask, which the com-pany says incorporates the latest technolo-gies available for industrial, agricultural,wastewater, HazMat, and HVAC work. TheAirhawk SCBA is available in low-pressure(2216 psig) or high-pressure (4500 psig)versions. 800-MSA-2222 and requestBulletin 0105-102, or MSAnet.com.● Ultima® XIR gas monitor, which is a micro-processor-based, infrared point gas detectorfor continuous monitoring of combustiblegases and vapors in harsh environments. Itutilizes technology that provides definitivecompensation for temperature, humidity andaging effects. 800-MSA-4678 and ask forData Sheet 07-2054 or MSAgasdetection.com.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 20032

● A “0-1,000-parts-per-million ammoniasensor” for its Ultima X series gas monitors.The sensor features 10-ppm resolution,making it ideal for use in general industrialapplications, and the interchangeable sen-sors are easy to install and replace, accord-ing to the company. 800-MSA-4678 andask for Data Sheet 07-2051 orMSAgasdetection.com.

FromNextteq isthe Gastec9500 smoketube kit (alsoknown as theair flow indi-cator kit),which thecompanysays providesan easy way to meet qualitative fit-testingrequirements. These tubes provide a simpleand direct way to meet…fit test require-ments per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134,Appendix A,” the company says. 887-312-2333 or nextteq.com.

From Scott Health & Safety is the Ska-Pak® AT automatic respiratory protection

solution forentering orescapingfrom con-fined spaceor IDLH envi-ronments.The Ska-PakAT supplied-

air respirator has automatic, hands-free air-transfer capability, the company says. Aflashing indicator notifies of low or lostcylinder pressure. 800-247-7257 orscotthealthsafety.com.

FOR THE WHOLE PERSON…From Mine Safety Appliances Co. is theSafety Equipment Catalog 2003-2004, featur-ing the company’s latest products to protectand assist workers. The 170-page, full-colorcatalog covers MSA’s complete product lineand training videos. 800-MSA-2222 and askfor Bulletin 555-82-MC or MSAnet.com.

N E W P R OT E C T I O N F O R R OA D C O N S T R U C TO R S

caption

The EZ Drop™ respiratorfrom AOSafety/ Aearo Co.

DrägerReviewmagazine

Nextteq’s Gastec 9500smoke tube kit

Ultima® XIR gas monitorfrom MSA

a Bacou-Dalloz IQ

dockingsystem

Scott Ska-Pak® AT

nomical and a complete solution to theroofer’s fall-protection needs. It contains thefall protection a roofer needs in a five-gal-lon bucket. 800-633-3954 or elkriver.com.

From the Miller Fall ProtectionDivision of Bacou-Dalloz are Miller a

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 3

▼ Sellstrom catalogs are available on CD-ROM

Miller Grip anchorageconnectors

NightHawk roofer’skit harness from

Elk River, Inc.

1.800.MSA.2222MSAnet.com

From Sellstrom are all of the compa-ny’s safety catalogs on a new self-loadingCD-ROM. The CD inludes: Eye, Ear, Headand Face Protection Catalog; WeldingProtection Catalog; Respiratory ProtectionCatalog; Emergency Eyewash and ShowerCatalog; General Safety Catalog; FallProtection Catalog; Fall Protection CustomSolutions Brochure, and Price List. 800-323-7402, sellstrom.com or fallprotection.com.

AGAINST FALLS…From DBI/SALA, 800-328-6146 or sala-group.com are:

● The WrapBax™lanyard, which isdesigned for tie-back use, elimi-nating the needfor anchorstraps. The newlanyard incorpo-rates a pistol-grip design forone-handedoperation evenwhen wearing

gloves. It features a hook that exceeds the5,000-pound strength requirements fromevery angle.● The Fall Protection and Rescue Systemscatalog. This 68-page, full-color catalogprovides detailed descriptions of the compa-ny’s products, and training and consultingservices.

From Elk River, Inc.,is the NightHawk roofer’skit, which the companydescribes as both eco-

DBI/SALAWrapBax™ lanyard.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 20034

Grip anchorage connectors, which provideportable, reusable anchor points for use infall-protection. Also available is a temporaryhorizontal lifeline kit that accommodatestwo workers, the company says. 800-873-5242 or bacou-dalloz.com.

From ProtectaInternational, 800-856-2442 or protecta.com, are:● Silverback™ line of full-body harnesses, which thecompany says utilizesback pads and combina-tion leg and hip pads toenhance comfort. Quick-connect, quick-releaseand easy adjustmentmake the buckles easy tomanipulate, even with agloved hand, accordingto the company.● AD212AG self-retracting lifeline, whichthe company says has a two-pawl brakingsystem that uses the principles of centrifugalforce to arrest a fall. Fall arrest begins with-in two feet with energy absorber activationtaking place when an impact load meets orexceeds 250 pounds.

FOR THE HEAD, FACE AND EYES1…From AOSafety/Aearo Co., 800-255-9038, are:● Maxim™ series of safety eyewear, featur-ing frames that are up to 15 percent lighterthan competitive eyewear, as well as elas-tomeric browguards and temple accents foroptimum facial comfort. Aosmaxim.com.● Virtua™safety eye-wear, whichthe companysays blendsunisexstyling,impact pro-tection andaffordability into a design that weighs lessthan one ounce. It is available in clear, grayand indoor/outdoor lenses. Aosafety.com.

From the Fendall® Division of Bacou-Dalloz is the Pure Flow 1000® eyewash sta-

tion, which the com-pany says offers self-contained, low-main-

caption

caption

N E W P R OT E C T I O N c o n t i n u e d

Fendall®

Pure Flow 1000®

eyewash station

E • A • R S O F T™ F X

LEADING THE ADVANCEMENT OF HEARING PROTECTION.™

Best NRR. Best fit. Best price.You just can’t get any better. E•A•Rsoft™ FX shaped earplugs fit the ear canalmore effectively to help provide an NRR of 33 dB—the best protection ofany earplug. That’s not all, in a plug-to-plug comparison test for softness andcomfort, wearers said E•A•Rsoft™ FX earplugs were the best. Ready for this?They’re also the lowest priced shaped polyurethane earplug in the industry.

New E•A•Rsoft™ FX earplugs. The best of all.

Get your Free Samples. Visit our website at www.earsoftfx.com

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FX SHAPED EARPLUGS.NEWSilverback™full-bodyharness fromProtectaInternational

AOSafetyVirtua™ safety eyewear

1 ALL LENSES MENTIONED IN PROTECTION UPDATE MEET THE ANSI Z87.1 STANDARD FOR INDUSTRIAL EYE PROTECTION.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 5

tenance emergency eye care. The Pure Flow1000 meets the ANSI Z358.1-1998Eyewash and Shower Standard, accordingto the company. 800-FENDALL or bacou-dalloz.com.

FromHornell,Inc., aremolded pro-tection platesfor itsSpeedglas®

9000 andutility seriesof auto-dark-ening weld-ing lenses.These pro-tectionplates offerthe same impact protection as previousmodels, but with increased clarity throughan improved manufacturing process,

according to thecompany. 800-628-9218 or hor-nell.com.

From KleinTools is a new lineof protective eye-wear that, the com-pany says, hasanti-fog, scratch-resistant, and anti-UV lens coatings;adjustable templelengths, and wrap-around designs.800-553-4676 orkleintools.com.

From Mine Safety Appliances Co. isthe “American Flag” hardhat, with eachshiny helmet being “unique” because each iscovered with a slightly different flag pattern,

according to the company. The helmets meetor exceed applicable requirements of ANSIZ89.1-1997 for a Type I helmet (Class E).800-MSA-2222 or MSAnet.com.

FOR HANDS AND ARMS…From Marigold Industrial is the GraspHand Protection Report, a full-color, 26-page booklet of useful information abouthands and skin and how to protect them.Included is information about how toassess and select hand protection, thecosts of neglecting hand protection, andhow to find the right glove for the job. 888-566-3468 or marigoldindustrial.com. ●

HandProtection

Report fromMarigold

Industrial

Molded protection plate forHornell Speedglas® 9000

Klein Tools’ new line of protective eyewear

MSA’sAmericanFlaghardhat

6

ChoosingThe RightDisposableParticle MaskBy George BlankDraeger Safety

Respiratory protection is a broad sub-ject that can be complicated and mis-understood by even the most experi-

enced people. Moreover, there are many types of parti-

cle filtering respirators. General categoriesinclude: (1) disposable particle masks, (2) half-and quarter-mask respirators with a reusablefilter pad, and (3) half or full facemasks withreplaceable cartridges. In this article we willdiscuss the fundamentals of respiratory pro-tection, particles, and the most basic andwidely used form of individual worker respi-ratory protection — disposable particle masks,also known as filtering facemasks, which arewidely used in heavy construction.

Many activities involve substances againstwhich you need to protect yourself. Very fineaerosols or respirable dusts may bereleased by grinding, drilling, milling, aswell as painting and cleaning. These parti-cles can be a health hazard since they maycause respiratory tract and lung irritation,and diseases. In particular, diseases such asasbestosis and silicosis generally are knownto the public. However, many other sub-stances such as metal dusts and fumes alsocan cause diseases.

It is important to note that OSHA’s deci-sion logic requires the use of engineeringcontrols as the first line of defense againstrespiratory hazards. Individual respiratorsshould only be used when the hazard(s)cannot be eliminated by engineering methods.

Some fundamental information you shouldknow about respiratory protection: In orderto provide proper protection, users must

know what contaminant(s) they are beingsubjected to, the level of contaminant(s),and the permissible exposure limits of thecontaminant(s). They also must be trained inrespirator donning/doffing and such thingsas possible symptoms of over exposure.

Following manufactures’ recommendationsfor donning respirators is very importantbecause improper donning can cause a poorfit and subject the user to high levels of con-taminants. Users must also be clean shavenand have been fit tested with the appropri-ate respirator within the last 12 months.

There are two basic fit-testing methods —qualitative (QLFT) and quantitative (QNFT).QLFT methods include smoke, Bitrex™, sac-charin, and isoamyl acetate. This method canbe considered a go-no-go type of test. Theuser must not detect any of the test media inorder to pass the test. If the media are detect-ed by taste or smell, the fit test has failed.The QNFT test method has two approvedtesters; the Fit Test 3000 by OHD and thePortacount by TSI. These testers provide anactual number that signifies how well themask fits. If a test from either the QNFT orQLFT method has failed, the wearer shouldre-don the same mask, select a different size,or try a different brand until a successful testhas been achieved.

Particles are the smallest solid and/or liq-uid parts that may result from mechanicalprocesses such as grinding, crushing andmilling, and also from thermal processessuch as combustion, reactions and heatingmetal. Merely mixing and sweeping of sub-stances, or demolition and renovation workcan spread particles in the air.

Particles with a size of less than 5 micronsare referred to as respirable substances orfine dusts. Table 1 shows different substanceswith their average size distribution demon-strating where contaminants occur. Finedusts are invisible and may penetrate therespiratory tract as far down as the alveoli.

Filtering half masks must in general notbe used for protection against radioactivesubstances, micro-organisms and biochemi-cally active substances.

All varieties of particle filtering respiratorsare manufactured to fit into one of the nine

ABOUT THE AUTHORGeorge Blank is respiratoryprotection product manager forDraeger Safety. The Pittsburgh-based company and ISEAmember is a manufacturer ofrespiratory protection and gasdetection equipment. ReachBlank at 412-787-8383 orgeorge.blank@draeger.net.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003

Look forRespiratoryProtection FromISEA MemberCompaniesAearo Company

Bacou-Dalloz

Brookdale InternationalSystems, Inc.

Bullard

Draeger Safety, Inc.

Hornell, Inc.

International SafetyInstruments, Inc.

Interspiro

3M Company

Micronel Safety, Inc.

Mine Safety Appliances Co.

Moldex-Metric, Inc.

North Safety Products

Phoenix ProtectiveTechnologies Inc.

Scott Health & Safety

Sellstrom

Shalon Chemical Industries

U.S. Safety

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 7

categories of particle filtering media. Three categories of the filter media that

concern oil-based aerosols are: N – Not oilresistant, R – Oil Resistant, and P- Oil Proof;three levels of filtering efficiency are 95%,97%, and 99.97% (100). The P100 providesthe greatest level of protection and the N95provides the lowest level. See Table 2.

Filtering facemasks are available in shapesthat include preformed three dimensional,accordion flat fold, fold in half and combi-nations of these designs. Folded masks thatare individually packaged can be kept cleanwhen taken to the workplace in pockets orwork supply containers. When at the work-place, a clean mask can be donned quickly.

A layered filter material should providelonger service life than a single ply material.

The filter material should keep breathingresistances at an extremely low level; to min-imize the heat generated within the mask.Furthermore, many masks are equipped withan exhalation valve, which even furtherreduces breathing resistance and heat buildup. Heat buildup and breathing resistancerepresent two of workers’ principal objectionsto wearing filtering face masks.

Features affecting user acceptance andmask quality include:● Cloth-faced elastic or rubber straps.● Number of attachment points of thestraps, 2 or 4.● Straps that are the proper length andstrength to obtain a proper fit.● Ease of donning and doffing.● Adjustable nose bridge seal clip.● Exhalation valve.● Breathing resistance.● Durability.● Interface with additional protective acces-sories such as goggles, ear protection or a

safety helmet without aproblem.

The respirator must not only meet safetyrequirements, but also should be userfriendly, comfortable, and easy to use.●

Table 2

95% 97% 99.97% N N95 N97 N100 R R95 R97 R100 P P95 P97 P100

Table 1

0.001 0.01 0.1 5 10 100 1000 10000 µm

ASHCOAL DUST

CEMENT DUSTMETALLURGIC FUMES AND DUST

SMOKEPAINT MIST FUNGUS SPORESOIL MIST POLLEN

BACTERIASANDTOBACCO SMOKE MIST

RAINDROPS

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 20038

A sensor verification test for gas-detection instruments must be con-ducted according to gas detector

manufacturers’ requirements to ensure sen-sors are working properly to save lives whenthe need arises, according to ISEA.

“User safety is obviously the primary con-cern of portable instrument users,” saidGretchen Manning, chair of ISEA’s InstrumentsGroup, and Portable Instruments ProductGroup manager for Mine Safety AppliancesCo. (MSA). “But reports coming to our atten-tion indicate that many users are confusedby calibration requirements and, therefore,may not take the time to perform a simplesensor verification test before each use.”

Calibration drift is normal and happensto most gas-detection instruments over time,Manning noted. If unchecked, it can lead toinaccurate readings and subsequent failure

to alarm at hazardous levels, risking users’health and safety.

There are two ways to verify instrumentcalibration accuracy: (1) through a function-al or “bump” test, or (2) a full calibration.

“A ‘bump’ test exposes the instrument toa known concentration of a test gas,”Manning said. “The instrument reading iscompared to the actual quantity of gas pre-sent, as indicated on the cylinder. If theinstrument’s response is within an accept-able range of the actual concentration, thenits calibration is verified. If the bump testresults are not within the acceptable range,then a full calibration must be performed.”

ISEA’s new “Statement on Verification ofCalibration for Direct Reading Portable GasMonitors Used in Confined Spaces” may befound on safetyequipment.org. ●

How to Ensure GasDetection Sensor Accuracy

ISEA ‘Safety Station’ Protects10,000 at World of ConcreteSome 10,000 visitors to World of Concrete(WOC) 2003 in Las Vegas returned to theirjobs better protected against hazards bypersonal protective equipment (PPE) distrib-uted at the “ISEA Safety Station.”

Four leading PPE manufacturers and ISEAmembers — Aearo Company, Bacou-Dalloz,Mine Safety Appliances Co. and North SafetyProducts —gave out10,000pairs ofcomplimen-tary safety glasses and earplugs, and 5,000respirators at the “Safety Station,” which waslocated in the show’s outdoor demo area.With more than 73,000 registrants, the 2003show rivaled the all-time record of 77,000set in 2001. a

Heavy equipment passesthe ISEA Safety Station atWorld of Concrete 2003.

▼

▲

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 9

ISI Frontier is the $895 SCBA that exceeds

industry standards.The ISI Frontier’s new Compact Demand Valve(CDV) delivers a flow rate that far exceeds bothNIOSH and NFPA breathing rates.Plus, it’s size (industry’ssmallest) provides anunobstructed viewthrough the facemask orhood. Contact us andsee what else you’ll getat this fantastic price.

888-ISI-SAFEwww.intsafety.com

“By donating PPE to prevent construction-related injuries and illness, our membersunderscored their commitment to our industry’sultimate mission — worker protection,” saidISEA President Dan Shipp. “If this gesture at

WOC saves one eye, or pre-vents one loss of hearing orinstance of lung damage,then our ‘Safety Station’goal has been achieved.”

In addition to safetyglasses,earplugs andrespirators,visitors tothe “SafetyStation” col-lected“Partnershipfor Worker

Protection” information —including Protection Updatesubscriptions — to enhancetheir overall worker safetyprograms. ●

ISEA’s Safety Station was a busy place.

73,000 attended WOC 2003.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 200310

sues such as the eyes? Is the substance at aconcentration that makes it immediatelydangerous to life or health (IDLH)?

First, the respiratory protection programmust be in a written program or StandardOperating Procedure (SOP). It must act as aroadmap in providing the directions to suc-cessfully run the program. The detail requiredfor the program is mainly driven by the toxi-city of the hazard from which the employeeis being protected and site-specific concernssuch as the actual operation that is creatingthe hazard, the temperature, humidity, theemployee’s work rate, and various other fac-tors. Additionally, the employer must consid-er how to handle emergency situations. Asuitably trained individual must administerthe program. As a minimum, the program

those cases, the manufacturer of the respi-rator(s) you choose can provide assistanceand recommend other sources of informa-tion. In addition, you may wish to considerobtaining help from an industrial hygienistor other health and safety professionals.

After becoming familiar with OSHA’s reg-ulation and knowing that you should onlyuse NIOSH-approved equipment, begin thedevelopment of your unique respiratory pro-tection program by understanding thenature of the hazard(s) from which theemployee is to be protected. Is it a gas,vapor, dust, fume, smoke, mist, etc? Whatare the concentrations? What are the healtheffects? Are the effects of the substance onlythrough the respiratory system or can theybe absorbed through the skin or other tis-

* Meets ANSI / ISEA107-1999 class 2 req.

* Approximately 1.6 lb.* Made out of polyester* Featuresheavy-duty

construction and easy to use fastenings.

* Sides are adjustable for a custom fit.

For more information:

Sellstrom/RTC800.323.7402

www.sellstrom.comwww.fallprotection.com

High visibility personal protective garment available in7000 Series without pockets or 7001 Series with pock-ets. Attaches to Sellstrom/RTC full body harnesseswith an opening for the back D-ring.

High VHigh Visibility PPE Garmentisibility PPE Garment7000 & 7001 Series7000 & 7001 Series

NEWNEW

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAMfrom coverADVERTISE

inProtectionUpdateContact Joe Walker,

editor, at jwalker@

safetyequipment.org

for further information.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 11

and that the label may not be removed andmust remain legible. ● Training and Information — Outlines thetraining items that must be covered in train-ing and re-training employees in the use ofrespiratory protection; re-training must a

must include all the following elements:● Procedures for selecting respirators foruse in the workplace — Outlines how selec-tion of respirators should be made andsome of the items that must be consideredas part of the selection process.● Medical Evaluation — Details minimalrequirements to perform medical evalua-tions and how they should be done, and bywhom.● Fit Testing — Outlines the fit testingrequirements for use of respirators.Delineates the use of qualitative and/orquantitative fit test procedures. Fit testingmust be performed annually.● Use of Respirators — Details the responsi-bilities of the employer.● Maintenance and Care of Respirator —Outlines that the employer must provide forcleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection,and repair of respirators used by employees.● Breathing Air Quality and Use — Outlinesthe breathing air requirement for supplied-air and SCBA respirators (not all programswill use this level of respiratory protection).● Identification of Filters, Cartridges andCanisters — Simply states that all filters,cartridges and canisters must be properlycolor coded with the NIOSH approval label,

Rule Will Address Number of Times aRespirator May Be UsedIn 2003, OSHA is expected to release aproposed rule that will be added to res-piratory protection regulation29CFR1910.134. This will be anassigned protection factor (APF) table.

APFs are the minimum expected work-place level of respiratory protection thatwould be provided by a properly func-tioning and used respirator or a class ofrespirator to properly fitted and trainedusers.

Simply stated, this number tells the userhow many times above the PermissibleExposure Limit the respirator may beused. Half-mask respirators, includingdisposable filtering facepieces, areassigned a 10, full facepiece respiratorsa 50, and so on.

The rulemaking process allows for publiccomments and hearings; the public isencouraged to comment.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 200312

be performed annually.● Program Evaluation — Outlines how theeffectiveness of a respiratory protection pro-

gram should be measured; it gives itemsthat should be examined, including fit,exposures, employee use, and maintenance.● Record Keeping — Outlines what writtenrecords the employer must keep.

Naturally, each program must be devel-oped based on employee needs andrequired level of respiratory protection.Once the hazard has been identified, theemployer can think about the selection of arespirator. This process really needs to occurprior to a program being written. Logically,you need to know the level of protectionprior to writing your program.

Often, the MSDS will indicate what levelof protection is needed and should be usedas a guide. For example, if we are talkingabout a relatively low toxicity chemical indust form and the exposure levels are low, adisposable filtering facepiece may be ade-quate and will not require an extremely in-depth respiratory protection program. If, onthe other hand, we are talking about ahighly toxic chemical vapor with excessiveconcentrations in the work place, a suppliedair respirator may be advised. This level ofrespiratory protection requires a much moredetailed respiratory protection program.

Construction trades are somewhat uniquebecause the worksite, as well as personnel,

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION from page 11

ExoFit. Comfort in uncomfortable places.The revolutionary ExoFit Harness. With state-of-the-art design and materials,it’s the safest, most comfortable harness ever made. Call 1-800-328-6146or visit www.salagroup.com. It’s what the crew up there wants to wear.

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60 stories high.10-inch girders.18 mph winds…

Silica Hazard CardsAvailable from OSHA

New health hazard information on crys-talline silica is available from OSHA oncards to help workers and employersunderstand more about how they canprotect themselves against exposure.Pocket-size cards in English and Spanishprovide a quick reference and recom-mendations, they identify symptoms ofsilicosis and the most common causes ofoccupational exposure, and include rec-ommendations for appropriate use ofrespirators and other personal protectiveequipment. Visit the Publications/Posterspage of osha.gov.

Note: This article is based inlarge measure on an articlepublished in the January 2003issue of Plant Safety &Maintenance magazine, andwas reprinted with the permis-sion of that magazine.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 13

may be mobile. This situation presents somedifficulties in the implementation of a respi-rator program. It is important to considerthese nuances in developing a respiratorprogram.

Obviously, it may be necessary to obtainthe assistance of a health and safety profes-sional in setting up a program. Do not beafraid to ask questions and get assistance.Local OSHA consultation offices can be veryhelpful in providing guidance in these andmany other health and safety matters. ●

ABOUT THE AUTHORJeffrey S. Birkner, M.S., CIH, is vice president—technical services, for Moldex-Metric, Inc. TheCulver City, Calif.-based company is an ISEAmember and manufacturer of respiratory andhearing protection. Reach Birkner at 310-837-6500 or jeffreyb@moldex.com.

Because we never know when an accident will happen, Draeger Safety maintains a stock of emergency safety equipment so you get the products you need when you need them...

You don’t need to wait to get Draeger’s latest in respiratory protection technology, the ProAir SCBA. With over 112 years in the respiratory protection industry and with more SCBA’s in operation than any other manufacturer,Draeger’s ProAir SCBA not only delivers the air you vitally need, but also delivers quality at a price you can afford. Draeger also offers a number of rental program options. We have complete equipment rental packages for plant outages and shut downs or other turn-around jobs. Draeger also offers a full range of protection equipment from full face masks and half masks to emergency escape units. Click or call today 800-615-5503 and ask for our ProAir informaiton.

www.draeger.net • prodinfo@draeger.net

Draeger Safety, Inc.101 Technology DrivePittsburgh, PA 15275

USAPhone (800) 615-5503

Fax (800) 922-5519

Draeger Canada, Ltd.7555 Danbro CrescentMississauga, ON L5N 6P9CanadaPhone (877) 372-4371Fax (800) 329-8823

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NEWNEW

NEWNEW

Tell Us Your StoryProtection Update seeks stories from

construction industry safety specialists

giving concrete (pardon the pun) exam-

ples about how their safety programs

incorporating personal protective equip-

ment have prevented injuries, saved

lives and saved their companies’ money.

If you have a story to tell, contact Editor

Joe Walker at 703-525-1695 or jwalk-

er@safetyequipment.org. If you send an

email, please provide your telephone

number. Protection Update will write the

stories for future newsletter issues based

upon your experiences.

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 200314

Employers who expose their workers toserious safety and health hazards andwho continue to defy worker safety

and health regulations will be subject to anenhanced enforcement policy under theU.S. Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA). A PBS Frontline/NewYork Times series in January concerningsafety conditions at a company’s pipefoundry operations apparently promptedOSHA to develop the new policy. It focuseson employers that have received violationsconsidered to be at the highest level ofseverity, OSHA said. The policy strengthensfive specific areas: (1) follow-up inspections,(2) programmed inspections, (3) public

awareness, (4) settlements, and (5) federalcourt enforcement. Visit osha.gov.

American Society of Safety Engineers(ASSE) welcomed the OSHA announce-ment. “The unacceptable problem of these‘bad actor’ employers like those document-ed in the PBS Frontline/New York Timesseries…is long standing. It is an encourag-ing development that…OSHA will be takingthese steps to force a relatively small num-ber of employers, who flagrantly disregardoccupational safety and health laws, tounderstand and carry out their responsibili-ties,” said ASSE President Mark Hansen.

“Work Zone Flagger Training is anaffordable way to protect your crew and

M A K I N G C O N S T R U C T I O N S A F E R A R O U N D T H E N AT I O N

OSHA’s $100,000 Club for Construction-related Safety Violations

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed penalties of $100,000 or more for the

following recent failures to protect workers from potential hazards, including many that could be avoided or mitigated

by safety equipment:

● Oakwood Homes Corp., Greensboro, N.C., $182,500 for failure to protect employees with adequate fall protection

at a Killeen, Texas, worksite. The company was cited for two alleged willful and numerous serious and other violations.

OSHA investigated after a worker was injured.

● Campo Sheet Metal Works Inc., Houston, $175,000 for failure to implement procedures to prevent the accidental

startup of a machine that contributed to the death of a 17-year-old worker. The citation involved four alleged willful and

two serious violations, including one for failing to require the use of personal protection equipment.

● Plum Creek wood products plant, Columbia Falls, Mont., $169,000 for failure to protect employees working on a

conveyor system; OSHA issued one willful, eight serious, two repeat, and one failure-to-correct citation after an accident

took the life of a worker.

● H.C. Price Co., Dallas, $150,000 for failure to protect workers excavating a pipeline near overhead power lines in

Genoa, Ill. OSHA investigated based on information that a worker was paralyzed after contacting a power line. Violations

included operating a crane and excavator too close to power lines, and issues involving fall protection and training.

● Johnson Bros. Corp., Litchfield, Minn., $126,000 for failing to protect workers from trenching and excavation hazards

at a Venice, Fla., job site. The company was cited for two willful violations of trenching standards.

● Brett-Robinson and three subcontractors, $126,000 for failing to protect workers from fall hazards at a 10-story

building under construction in Gulf Shores, Ala. The three subcontractors cited were United Forming, Inc., Baroco

Electric Construction Co., and Kittrell Acoustics, which also was cited for failing to provide eye protection for an employ-

ee using a nail gun. ●

Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003 15

those driving by them,” says National SafetyCouncil (NSC). The four-hour course meetsguidelines in the Manual of Uniform TrafficControl Devices and the ANSI standard ISEA-107-1999. Flagger students get a laminat-ed, pocket-sized Participant Guide that pro-vides quick reference. NSC Training Centersoffer the training in most states. Call 800-621-7619 or visit nsc.org/osh/flagsaft.htm.

New websites to enhance construc-tion worker safety have been launched byContractor Tools & Supplies magazine (con-tractortoolsandsupplies.com), which has astrong emphasis on safety, and theChicagoland Construction Safety Council(buildsafe.org). The CT&S site is designed tohelp contractors find their way “through themaze of cyber information,” writes EditorClair David Urbain. Within the “Buildsafe” site,visitors will find useful links, resources andinformation geared to the construction safetyand health industry; contact webmaster JackKozina, 708-544-2082, with suggestions.

OSHA plans to move forward with anegotiated rulemaking to update its con-struction safety standard for cranesand derricks. The proposed list of Craneand Derrick Negotiated RulemakingAdvisory Committee members appears onOSHA’s website under Federal RegisterNotices. Visit osha.gov.

Concrete Sawing and Drilling Associationhas published a new CSDA SafetyManual. It features a Field Safety Manualsection with a sample policy statement,safety program responsibilities and sectionson electrical safety, vehicle safety policies,accident reporting, roadway safety policiesand employee safety orientation, accordingto Concrete Openings magazine. 727-577-5004 or csda.org.

OSHA reports that more than $2.2million in new funding is earmarkedin the President’s Fiscal Year 2004 budgetfor outreach to Spanish and othernon-English-speaking workers; this isthe first time that OSHA’s budget will includeadditional funding for multilingual outreach.

National Work Zone AwarenessWeek was observed April 6-12 to empha-size the growing number of fatalities and

injuries that occur each year in roadwaywork zones. In 2001, the latest year for whichstatistics are available, more than 1,000people lost their lives in work zones. ●

Your respiratory system hasn’tchanged in a million years.

North hasn’t been around for a million years, but we have spent the last forty

designing and manufacturing innovative and comfortable respiratory products

to meet the needs of today’s changing workplace. From disposable respirators

to SCBAs, we have a full line of products for a wide range of applications.

For advice on the selection and use of personal

protective equipment contact us:

800-430-4110 www.northsafety.com

marketing@northsafety.com

Fortunately, the products to protect it have.

16 Protection UPDATE | SPRING 2003

He Lives to Fight Another DayRobert, a fire captain in Columbia, S.C., was wearing respiratory protection as he climbed the stairs in a burningtwo-story apartment. Suddenly the roof collapsed; Robert was knocked down, pinned briefly on the floor, and

exposed to dense smoke and heat estimated at 2,500 degrees F. His clothing and equipment were ablaze as Robert extri-cated himself from the fallen debris and escaped. But his mask stayed in place, providing the fresh air that enabled him tolive to fight another fire. Respiratory protection by Mine Safety Appliances Co., MSAnet.com.

Smoke Wasn’t In His EyesIn March 2000, Dennis escaped through thick smoke from a fire on the 18th floor of a Chicago apartment build-ing. When the building’s fire alarm sounded again in 2002, Dennis was prepared with a respiratory protection

escape hood. “Having the mask knocked down the panic I was feeling so I could think of my plans and how to get out,”said Dennis, who already had plotted an escape route. Wearing the hood, he then helped a neighbor to safety. Parat Csmoke escape hood by Draeger Safety, draeger.net.

Hardhat “Saves His Neck”Eric, a ventilation installation supervisor, fell about three meters onto the steel deck of an offshore accommodationplatform in the Gulf of Mexico. Although he suffered some fairly serious injuries — fractured sternum, neck injury,

and stitches to the back of the head — he credited his hardhat for staying in position during the fall and “saving his neck,”even though the helmet was not meant to provide fall protection for the head. Hardhat by Mine Safety Appliances Co. ●

WorksforYou

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

1901 North Moore StreetArlington, VA 22209-1762 USA

Editor’s Note: Protection Update welcomes contribu-tions from readers for our regular Safety EquipmentWorks for You feature. Email examples of where PPEhas saved workers’ lives or prevented injuries to EditorJoe Walker, jwalker@safetyequipment.org, or mailthem to the Editor, Protection Update, InternationalSafety Equipment Association, 1901 N. Moore Street,Suite 808, Arlington, VA 22209. Photos are welcome.