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How to Get a Respirator  
 
Summary: Before you can be issued an air-filtering respirator, you must be certified by Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S). Follow these steps to get a respirator.
What to do How to do it
1 Request a workplace evaluation.
  1. Request a workplace evaluation from the EH&S Industrial Hygiene Division, (858) 534-1075.
  2. An EH&S industrial hygienist will schedule an evaluation of your workplace activities to determine the most effective and efficient means of respiratory protection for you. A respirator may not be necessary.
  3. If respiratory protection is necessary for your work, follow the next step.
2 Apply for medical approval.
  1. Print out and complete the two forms below:
  2. Send the completed forms in a sealed envelope to Daphne Thaung, EH&S, Mail Code 0958.
  3. UCSD Occupational & Environmental Medicine (COEM) will review the forms and send medical approval or denial to the EH&S industrial hygienist.
  4. If you are denied medical approval to wear a respirator, the industrial hygienist will consult with you on other means of respiratory protection.
  5. If you are medically approved, the industrial hygienist will schedule an appointment for you to be:
    • Fit tested for a face piece and filters appropriate for the kind of materials you work with
    • Trained in proper use and care of your respirator
3 Get fit tested and trained to use your new respirator.
  1. Have your department's index number with you when you come to EH&S for respirator fit testing and training. The cost of the respirator and filters will be recharged to your department.
  2. When you satisfactorily pass the fit test, the respirator will be issued to you.
  3. You will then be trained on:
    • Fit, usage, and care of your respirator
    • Limitations of respirators
    • How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of your respirator
    • Regulations governing respiratory protection in the workplace
Men will need to be clean shaven along the perimeter of the mask in order to pass the fit test for a half-mask or full-face respirator.

4 Renew your respirator certification annually.
  1. Annual certification is required. EH&S will notify you when it is time for renewal.
5 What to do when you no longer need your respirator.
  1. Return unwanted respirators to the EH&S Industrial Hygiene Division at Mail Code 0958. Please include your name and department.


Questions regarding UCSD's Respiratory Protection Program? Contact the EH&S Industrial Hygiene Division, (858) 534-1075.


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Last reviewed/updated on April 03, 2008 (see more info)
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