The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires the following elements in training of employees in respiratory protection:
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Why the respirator is necessary (including when it must be worn),
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Why proper fit, usage, and maintenance is crucial to its effectiveness,
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What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are,
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Hands-on demonstration of how to inspect, put on, remove, use, and check the seal of the respirator,
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What the procedures are for storage and maintenance,
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How to recognize medical signs or symptoms that limit or prevent the safe, effective use of respirators,
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The general requirements of the OSHA Respiratory Protection standard,
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How to identify and react to respirator malfunctions, and
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How to use the respirator in emergencies (e.g., chemical release) if appropriate.
