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COSHH L5 (Sixth Edition 2013)
EXTRACTS FROM CODE OF PRACTICE RELATING TO
RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (RPE)
178. The maintenance, examination and tests should be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Examinations should comprise a thorough visual examination of all parts of the respirator or breathing
apparatus, to ensure that all parts are present, correctly fltted, and the equipment is in good working order. In
particular, the examination should ensure that the straps, facepieces, filters and
valves are sound and in good working condition. For powered and power-assisted respirators, tests should:
• be made on the condition and efficiency of those parts;
• ensure that the battery pack is in good condition;
• ensure that the respirator delivers at least the manufacturer's recommended minimum volume flow rate.
179. For RPE incorporating compressed gas cylinders, tests should include the condition and efficiency of all
parts, the pressure in the cylinders and the volume flow rate. Frequency of examination and tests
180. The quality of the air supplied to a breathing apparatus should be tested at suitable intervals, depending
on the task and the frequency of use. When the air supply is from mobile compressors, the employer should
ensure that wherever a compressor is located, the quality of air it supplies is not compromised by nearby
contaminants. In every case, the air supplied to a breathing apparatus should meet the relevant quality
standard. As it is not reasonably practicable to test for all contaminants, the risk assessment made under
regulation 6 should guide what other contaminants will require testing.
181. Thorough maintenance examinations and, where appropriate, tests of items of RPE, other than one-shift
disposable respirators, should be made at suitable intervals. The frequency should increase where the health
risks and conditions of exposure are particularly severe.
182. In situations where respirators are used only occasionally, an examination and test should be made before
their next use and maintenance carried out as appropriate. The person who is responsible for managing the
maintenance of RPE should determine suitable intervals between examinations. Emergency escape-type RPE
should be examined and tested in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
183. Suitable arrangements should be made to ensure that no employee uses RPE which has previously been
used by another person, unless it has been thoroughly washed and cleaned in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
