In today's fast-paced world, where the air we breathe is often laden with pollutants and harmful particles, safeguarding our respiratory health has become more important than ever. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of workers in various industries, from construction sites to healthcare facilities. However, simply donning a mask is not enough; proper maintenance and cleaning of respiratory equipment are essential to keep these vital pieces of equipment effective and hygienic.
In this guide, we delve into the importance of cleaning respiratory equipment in line with AS/NZS 1715 standards and provide actionable tips to ensure your mask remains a reliable protective tool for your respiratory health.
Cleaning Respiratory Equipment - Is It Essential?
Let’s be honest. Sometimes our masks really aren’t our priority, even though we all know they should be.
Ever hang your mask in a space that isn’t a safe, practical storage space, perhaps near chemicals? Or have you left a mask on your dashboard on a sunny day? Or kept a respirator in the cab of a truck with a cartridge stored in a random unsecured place for months on end?
It might all seem innocuous - what difference does it really make?
Respirators can be adversely affected by dust, sunlight, heat, extreme cold, excessive moisture, and harmful chemicals. To maintain their effectiveness, respirators should be cleaned thoroughly after each use and stored in a clean, dry location, away from personal clothing and pesticide-contaminated areas. Disposable respirators, or dust filter masks, should be thrown away after a single use, and cartridges should be replaced once they show signs of depletion.
Why Do I Need to Consider Cleaning My Respiratory Equipment?
Different occupations have different levels of airborne contamination. Mining and tunneling are great examples of industries with higher than normal dust levels. These environments would result in the need to implement a cleaning process for respiratory equipment post shift. Aside from simple wearer comfort, a dirty mask harbours bacteria and mould, which puts a wearer at further risk of illness.
Aside from this, and perhaps most importantly, dirty masks compromise their effectiveness in filtering out hazardous particles - the precise reason you need the RPE in the first place!
Understanding AS/NZS 1715 Recommendations
AS/NZS1715 is the Australian and New Zealand Standard for Selection, Use, and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment. This standard provides guidelines for the selection of appropriate RPE based on workplace hazards, as well as instructions for their proper use, maintenance, and storage. Adhering to these standards is crucial not only for compliance but also for ensuring the efficacy and longevity of your RPE.
The Importance of Cleaning Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)
Imagine wearing a mask that's not only uncomfortable but also harbours bacteria, mould, and other harmful contaminants. Not a pleasant thought, right? Unfortunately, neglecting to clean your RPE can lead to precisely that scenario. Dirty masks not only compromise their effectiveness in filtering out hazardous particles but also pose serious health risks to the wearer. From respiratory infections to skin irritations, the consequences of wearing unclean RPE can be far-reaching. Moreover, in the current global context, where infectious diseases pose a constant threat, maintaining the hygiene of RPE is paramount for preventing the spread of illnesses.
It really cannot be stressed enough that your RPE can only provide its maximum intended protection in the face of hazardous airborne contamination when properly cleaned, maintained, and stored.
Cleaning your respiratory protective equipment is a must.
Regularly changing filters is extremely critical to ensure your respirator provides its maximum intended protection. No ones filters should ever look like this. You can read more about appropriate filter selection for recognised hazards here.
Cleaning in Line with AS/NZS 1715 and Manufacturer Recommendations
A Comprehensive Guide To Cleaning Your Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)
So, how exactly should you go about cleaning your respiratory protective equipment in accordance with AS/NZS 1715 and manufacturer recommendations?
Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your RPE:
Before cleaning your respiratory protective equipment, ensure you're in a clean and well-ventilated area. Gather the necessary cleaning supplies, including soap or mild detergent, warm water (no greater than 40°C)), and a soft brush or cloth.
Preparation: Before cleaning your respiratory protective equipment, ensure you're in a clean and well-ventilated area. Gather the necessary cleaning supplies, including soap or mild detergent, warm water (no greater than 40°C)), and a soft brush or cloth.
Disassembly (if applicable): If your mask consists of multiple components that can be detached, such as filters or valves, carefully remove them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Hand Washing: Fill a basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the mask and gently scrub it with a soft brush or cloth, paying special attention to areas where dirt and grime may accumulate.
Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the mask under running water to remove any soap residue.
Drying: Allow the mask to air dry in a clean, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ensure all components are completely dry before reassembly.
Reassembly (if applicable): Once the mask is dry, reassemble any detached components according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Storage: Store your clean RPE in a clean, dry place away from contaminants and extreme temperatures. Avoid folding or creasing the mask, as this can damage its integrity.
Cleaning Cartridge Respirators
Cleaning Frequency: Clean respirators after each use, except for disposable respirators or dust filter masks, which should be discarded after one use.
Intermittent Use: Use non-alcohol wipe pads for intermittent use.
Disassembly: Disassemble the respirator according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inspection: Inspect all parts and replace any that are damaged or worn.
Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.
Wash reusable face pieces with mild disinfecting soap.
Rinse thoroughly and air dry before storing.
Clean inhalation and exhalation valves with a mild soap solution, taking care not to damage them.
Avoidance: Do not use strong cleaning agents or solvents as they can damage rubber or plastic parts.
Drying: Ensure all cleaned parts are completely dry before reassembling.
Reassembly: After reassembling, check seals and gaskets for proper fit and leaks.
Hand Hygiene: Wash hands before and after cleaning the respirator.
Cartridges and Filters
Cleaning: Cartridges and filters should not be cleaned.
Disposal: Replace cartridges and filters when:
Contaminants can be smelled or tasted.
You experience irritation in your eyes, nose, or throat.
They exhibit any signs of damage.
Appropriate Storage of Respirators
Preparation: Clean respirators and allow them to dry thoroughly before storage. Store them promptly after drying to prevent dust buildup.
Containers: Use sturdy, airtight containers like zip-sealed plastic bags to store clean, dry respirators.
Separation: Keep cleaned respirators separate from cartridges.
Storage Location: Place respirators in a cool, dry cabinet specifically designated for storage.
Positioning: Store respirators in a way that maintains their natural shape. Ensure exhalation valves and face pieces are positioned normally to avoid deformation.
Protection: Protect respirators from dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, and harmful chemicals.
How Often Should I Clean Respiratory Equipment?
Respirators should be cleaned after each use, except for disposable respirators or dust filter masks, which should be discarded after a single use. For intermittent use, non-alcohol wipe pads can be employed.
Use Cleaning Your Respiratory Equipment To Check For Damage
Cleaning your RPE should be done after each use, it is also a good time to inspect your RPE for any damages or wear and tear during the process. Damaged and neglected RPE, like the example below, should be discarded and replaced immediately.
Where Should I Clean My Respiratory Equipment?
Large organisations can use a dedicated household clothes washer or dishwasher with a rack to securely hold face pieces in place to clean your respiratory protective equipment. Loose placement in a washer may cause damage due to the agitator. Keep in mind, water temperature should not exceed 40°C. This approach is particularly beneficial for large scale RPE programs. Alternatively, you can place face pieces in mesh bags before placing them in the washing machine.
Advantages Of Regular Mask Cleaning
Maintain peak performance of respiratory protective equipment or mask.
Prevent accumulation of bacteria, dirt, or dust.
Extend the lifespan of your mask.
Facilitate early detection of any damage or issues that could affect mask performance and user safety.
When To Disinfect Respiratory Protective Equipment
Disinfection is required if either or both of the following usage conditions are present:
The respirator or face-piece will be used by more than one person.
There is a chance of the respirator or face-piece being contaminated with biological materials.
Disinfecting Your RPE
Disinfection should be carried out after cleaning of the RPE. If the cleaning agent being used lacks disinfectant properties and disinfection is necessary, immerse respirator components in one of the following solutions for approximately two minutes:
Mix around 2 mL of laundry bleach into one litre of water at a temperature below 40°C to create a hypochlorite solution with 50 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine.
To make an aqueous solution of iodine with 50 ppm of iodine, add roughly 0.8 mL of tincture of iodine to one
of water at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. Tincture of iodine contains 6–8 grams of ammonium and/or potassium iodide per 100 mL of 40% alcohol.
Use other commercially available cleansers of comparable disinfectant quality according to the respirator manufacturer's recommendations or approvals.
Different cleaning methods are advised for resuscitators and medical masks. Always check for the latest information.
Overview
In the realm of workplace safety, respiratory health should never be taken lightly. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in AS/NZ S1715 and adopting a regular routine for cleaning your respiratory protective equipment (RPE), you not only safeguard your own health but also contribute to a safer and healthier work environment for all. Remember, a clean mask isn't just a piece of equipment; it's a shield designed to protect your lungs aiding you to breathe easy and tackle the day with confidence knowing you are safeguarded within hazardous environments. So, here's to cleaner air and healthier lungs – because when it comes to respiratory protection, every breath you take matters.
Your health and safety is our priority
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