Commercial Spray Painting Respirator Fit & Use Checklist

Is there a written respiratory protection program that meets OSHA 1910.134 requirements?

Are employee training records available and up-to-date, covering proper respirator use, maintenance, and limitations?

Are procedures in place for selecting the correct respirator type and cartridge for the specific VOCs present?

Is there documentation of medical evaluations for all employees required to wear respirators?

Are annual respirator fit tests conducted and documented for each employee?

If qualitative fit testing is used, is the approved method (e.g., saccharin, Bitrex) appropriate for the respirator type?

Have employees been trained on how to inspect their respirators before each use?

Are respirators stored properly to protect them from damage, contamination, and sunlight?

Is there a cartridge change schedule based on manufacturer recommendations and exposure levels?

Do employees understand the respirator program and their responsibilities?

Is the respirator model the same as the one used during the employee's fit test?

Is the respirator clean, undamaged, and free from cracks, tears, or other defects?

Do the respirator straps have adequate elasticity and are they properly adjusted?

Are the inhalation and exhalation valves functioning correctly and free from obstructions?

Is the correct type of organic vapor cartridge (or combination cartridge) being used for the specific VOCs present?

Are the cartridges properly sealed and tightened to the respirator facepiece?

Are the cartridges within their expiration date?

Is the employee performing a user seal check (positive and negative pressure) each time the respirator is donned?

Is there any facial hair interfering with the respirator seal?

Are glasses or other PPE interfering with the respirator seal?

Is there adequate ventilation in the spray area to control VOC concentrations?

Is the ventilation system functioning properly and regularly maintained?

Is the air velocity within the spray booth or area within the required range (typically 100-150 fpm)?

Are all potential ignition sources (e.g., open flames, sparks, hot surfaces) eliminated from the spray area?

Are all spray equipment and containers properly grounded and bonded to prevent static electricity buildup?

Are employees wearing flame-retardant clothing?

Is the airless sprayer in good working condition, with no leaks or defects?

Is the spray area kept clean and free from accumulated paint residue and other combustible materials?

Is a suitable fire extinguisher readily available and accessible near the spray area?

Is smoking prohibited in the spray area?

Are employees wearing appropriate eye protection (e.g., safety glasses, goggles) to prevent paint splashes?

Are employees wearing gloves and other protective clothing to prevent skin contact with paint?

Is hearing protection provided and used if noise levels exceed permissible exposure limits?

Is all PPE in good condition and properly maintained?

Is appropriate PPE readily available to all employees?

Have employees been trained on the proper use, care, and limitations of PPE?

Are employees wearing appropriate coveralls or protective suits to prevent skin contamination?

Are boot covers used to prevent contamination of footwear?