Respirator Change Schedules Decision Logic Flowcharts

• Selection Flowchart
• Flowchart 1
• Flowchart 2
• Flowchart 3
• Flowchart 4
• Flowchart 5
• Flowchart 6

Text Version

• 4 The results of the following decisions can be combined based on contaminant/cartridge combinations.
  • Does the cartridge have an ESLI for all contaminants?
    • Yes - A change-out schedule is not required.
    • No - Go to "Is manufacturer recommendation available for cartridge type?"
  • Is manufacturer recommendation available for cartridge type?
    • Yes - Go to "Using manufacturer's information and your work environment, develop service life for each respirator user".
    • No - Go to "Is breakthrough data available for contaminants?"
  • Is breakthrough data available for contaminant?
    • Yes - 5 Go to flowchart 5
    • No - Go to "Will you perform testing to obtain needed data?" - 5R
  • Will you perform testing to obtain needed data?
    • Yes - 6 Go to flowchart 6
    • No - Insufficient information to develop a change-out schedule. You cannot use an APR.
  • Using manufacturer's information and your work environment, develop service life for each respirator user.
  • 7 - Document respirator cartridge change-out schedule.
  • Identify all gas/vapor respirator type, manufacturers, and cartridges to be included.
  • Identify each job classification which will be using a respirator.
  • Identify all environmental and work factors (temperature, humidity, work rate, expected time used, etc.) for each job class.
  • For each job class, identify all contaminants and worse case concentration.
  • For each combination of the above items, document the maximum time between cartridge changes.
  • Unless substantial information supports a decision otherwise, require cartridges to be changed at the end of each work shift.
  • Prepare a written document describing all factors and supportive data used to develop the change-out schedule.
  • Train respirator users in the application of the change-out schedule and ensure they are aware of the availability of the change-out schedule documentation.
  • Enter change-out schedule information into respiratory protection program.
  • Review change-out schedule annually or whenever a change occurs in respirator manufacture or usage.