Which are core components of a respirator program mandated under OSHA?

Which are core components of a respirator program mandated under OSHA?

• A. PPE color coding, and labeling only
• B. Inventory management of respirators only
• C. Medical evaluation, respirator selection, fit testing, use procedures, maintenance and cleaning, storage, and program oversight
• D. Supervisory sign-off only

Answer: (C)

OSHA requires a comprehensive respirator program that ensures workers can use respirators safely and effectively. The essential elements include medical evaluation to determine who can wear a respirator, selecting appropriate respirators for the hazards and individuals, performing fit testing for tight-fitting models to ensure a proper seal, establishing use procedures for donning, doffing, and working conditions, maintaining and cleaning the devices, storing equipment properly, and having program oversight to manage training, inspections, records, and updates. These pieces together cover health clearance, device suitability and fit, proper use in real work situations, upkeep, and governance of the program. The other options focus on isolated tasks like labeling, inventory, or sign-off, which do not address the full required scope.

OSHA requires a comprehensive respirator program that ensures workers can use respirators safely and effectively. The essential elements include medical evaluation to determine who can wear a respirator, selecting appropriate respirators for the hazards and individuals, performing fit testing for tight-fitting models to ensure a proper seal, establishing use procedures for donning, doffing, and working conditions, maintaining and cleaning the devices, storing equipment properly, and having program oversight to manage training, inspections, records, and updates. These pieces together cover health clearance, device suitability and fit, proper use in real work situations, upkeep, and governance of the program. The other options focus on isolated tasks like labeling, inventory, or sign-off, which do not address the full required scope.