4
Health and Safety
Executive
R4 UK Standard Assigned
Protection Factor 40
COSHH essentials:
Respiratory protective (APF 40)
equipment (RPE)
Contr
ol approach R Supplementary advice
This information will help
employers comply with the
Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health
Regulations 2002 (COSHH), as
amended, to control exposure to chemicals
and protect workers’ health.
It is also useful for trade union safety
representatives.
The sheet covers how to select and use
RPE with a UK APF of 40.
It is important to follow all the points, or
use equally effective measures.
RPE is not a substitute for engineering
controls. It is difficult to use, expensive in
the longer run, and always fails to danger.
If you are using the right controls, RPE is
not normally needed. However, some
processes always need RPE.
You should use RPE:
■ while you are planning to install engineering control;
■ clearing up a spillage;
■ maintenance;
■ emergencies;
■ cleaning, eg pressure washing;
■ a short term one-off procedure; and
■ whenever required for safe working.
Selection of RPE with an APF of 40 or more
✓
RPE is designed to help protect workers from dusts, fumes, vapours or
gases. This sheet describes respirators that filter contaminated air. Fill
in the selection table on page three and show it, with safety data
sheets, to your RPE supplier.
Types of RPE available are:
■ full face mask EN 136 and P3 filter;
■ powered hood, helmet or blouse model TH3 EN 146/EN 12941; and
■ power-assisted full face mask model TM3 EN 147/EN 12942.
Caution: These are not suitable for use in confined spaces.
Planning and preparation
✓
Plan for and practice emergency procedures.
✓
Get up-to-date safety data sheets for all chemicals and products.
✓
Make sure you get initial fit testing done. Ask the supplier for help in fit
testing and arranging training, or contact BOHS - see ‘Further
information’.
Using RPE
✓
Wearers must be medically fit to wear RPE – seek medical advice if
you are not sure.
✓
All types of RPE restrict what the wearer can do. It is uncomfortable to
wear, particularly for long periods of time.
✓
The RPE has to be worn all the time, and until the wearer is away from
the contaminated air.
✓
The RPE needs to fit the person. If the RPE depends on a face seal, it
won’t work if the worker has face hair or stubble.
