Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 002 Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.134(c)(2)(ii): In addition, the employer must establish and implement those elements of a written respiratory protection program necessary to ensure that any employee using a respirator voluntarily is medically able to use that respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to the user. On or about August 22, 2024, the employer did not ensure that any employee using a respirator voluntarily is medically able to use that respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and maintained so that its use does not present a health hazard to the user. CSHO observed respirators not properly stored. The employer did not provide medical evaluations for all employees voluntarily wearing respirators. Employees were exposed to respiratory hazards and illnesses from welding fumes and to potential stressors on the respiratory system from the respirator which can exacerbate undiagnosed respiratory illnesses. Abatement documentation is required for this item in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1903.19(d).