ANSI Z88.2, “Practices for Respiratory Protection,” has just been released. This new edition has been in the works for some time, as the previous 1992 Edition was withdrawn in 2002. The committee considers this 2015 Edition to be a complete new standard rather than a 4th Edition, so if you use the document you’ll need the copy of the updated release. You can get your copy from Document Center Inc. in both paper format and for pdf download.
The standard is essential for understanding the minimal requirements and practices for occupational respirator use. These devices are used to protect people from the inhalation of harmful air contaminants in the workplace. And they also are used in oxygen-deficient atmospheres. You’ll get information and guidance on the right way to select, use and maintain respirators as well as establishing respirator programs.
Please note: This standard is not appropriate for use with underwater breathing devices, aircraft oxygen systems, supplied air suits, respirators used in military combat or medical inhalators or resuscitators.
ANSI Z88.2 was developed after significant changes to the OSHA respiratory protection standard (29CFR 1910.134). So this means that there are new government definitions and requirements for APF’s (Assigned Protection Factors) and MUC’s (Maximum Use Concentrations). And changes were also made to the OSHA rules for Fit Testing Procedures. So references are made in the 2015 Edition for Z88.2 to the ANSI Z88.10 standard, “Respirator Fit Testing Methods,” from 2010 which addresses some of these issues.
Where will you find other changes to the publication? There are updated sections on oxygen deficiency, respirator selection, the use of emergency respirators, and on respirator audits. There is also an Annex A with guidance on a number of topics:
- A.1 Guidance on Establishing Cartridge and Canister Change Schedules
- A.2 Respirator Classification by Mode of Operation and Considerations for Selection and Use of Respirators
- A.3 Oxygen Deficiency
- A.4 Verbal Communications
- A.5 Required Fit Factor
- A.6 Positive-Pressure Designation
- A.7 Effective Protection Factor (EPF)
- A.8 Decontaminating, Cleaning and Sanitizing Respirators
- A.9 Dew Point
- A.10 Breathing Air Equipment and Systems
You are probably aware that this standard is closely linked to OSHA regulations. You’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of references in the ANSI Z88.2, 2015 Edition, to these regulations and supporting material to help you meet your legal requirements.
Now to get your copy. Order online at the Document Center Inc. webstore, www.document-center.com. Or contact our staff by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com). We have been working with standards since 1982. Make us your Standards Experts!
