Respiratory Protection - doe-std-1128-98

DOE-STD-1128-98

condition should be changed without delay. Gloves that are not in use for the

remainder of that shift should be capped off with a glove cover or plastic bag.

Gloves not in sue should be stored inside the glove box in such a manner that

they do not interfere with operations.

4.3.4 Respiratory Protection

Respiratory protection should be readily available. Respiratory protective equipment

should be used for all bag-out operations, bag and glove changes, and any situation

involving a potential or actual breach of confinement. Alternatively, the operation

could be performed in a glovebag to maintain confinement. In any case, protection, in

the form of air-purifying or atmosphere-supplying respirators, should be considered

whenever concentrations of radionuclides in the air are likely to exceed 30% of the

Derived Air Concentration (DAC). For good performance, the respirator must fit

closely on the facial contours and make an impenetrable seal so that all air enters

through the filter or is supplied by the breathing-air supply. ANSI Z88.2-1992

(ANSI, 1980b) describes qualitative and quantitative tests that should be used to

ensure that the respirator fits the individual; only the quantitative test should be used

for verification of respirator fit at plutonium facilities. Respirator fit tests should be

performed annually.

The respiratory protective device selected should provide a protection factor

appropriate for the air concentration anticipated. ANSI Z88.2 provides protection

factors guidance.

Air-supplied hoods are becoming more popular because a fitting is not required and

facial hair does not prohibit their use. Protection factors greater than 1000 have been

determined with air-supplied hoods. All respirators, including air-supplied hoods,

require approval. While NIOSH approves most respirators, some respirator types in

use at DOE facilities are not part of the NIOSH testing program.

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