Respirator storage: ready to use

Washed respirators in boxes stored in a clean room.
Photos by Kit Galvin.
Photos by Kit Galvin
Clean respirators stored in a covered box stay clean and ready for use.

idea icon Idea...

Pesticide handlers like the respirator storage box because it is easy to use and keeps their respirators clean.

 

 

alert iconAlert

Remember to replace respirator cartridges after using them for a maximum of eight hours. Check the package for the manufacturer's instructions.

 

 

setup iconSetup & use

  • Decontaminate facepiece and cartridges.
  • Inspect the straps, valves, and facepiece for wear and damage.
  • Replace worn or damaged parts.
  • Put cartridges to be reused in a new sealable bag.
  • Put respirator and cartridges in a clean dry storage box.
  • Store box in a clean room away from pesticides.

 

supplies icon Supplies

  • A separate clear box with a tight seal & latches for each handler’s respirator.
  • Sealable plastic bags for cartridges.
  • Replacement cartridges and respirator parts.
     
Close up of instructions on lid
Respirator checklist attached to the lid.

 

 

“[the checklist] reminds me that I need to wash my respirator before putting it in the box.”
Pesticide handler
Cartridge use tracking sheet.
Cartridge use tracking sheet.

 

tips icon Tips

  • Put a respirator cleaning and storage checklist on the inside of the box lid.
  • Post a chart for easy tracking of cartridge use times.

Respiratory Protection Regulations

Federal

            (h) Maintenance and care of respirators.

 Washington State (Washington Administrative Code)

Oregon State (Oregon Administrative Rules)

Last updated

We hope that you are inspired to use these solutions in your workplace. Did you try one of the practical solutions or develop a new one? We would appreciate hearing about your ideas and experiences.

Thank you and safe pesticide handling,
PNASH

Contact your state agency for more information on WPS regulations. The content of this website is for informational purposes only. It may need modification to fit your needs or it may not be appropriate for your workplace. Safe use of these solutions is your responsibility. The University of Washington and the Pacific Northwest Agricultural Safety & Health Center is not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of the information provided on this website.

PNASH Project 2016-2021 (CDC/NIOSH Cooperative Agreement # U54 OH007544)

Contact us

Project Email:
PractSLN2@uw.edu

Project staff:
Maria Tchong-French (habla español)
Email: mitchong@uw.edu
206.685.6728