A worker is spraying paint onto small parts in a ventilated spray booth. Watch t

Question

A worker is spraying paint onto small parts in a ventilated spray booth. Watch the video below: https: //www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_VWvv31Y5U The ventilation system had to be shut down for maintenance. Subsequently, air sample results show that the worker is exposed to 455 ppm of toluene and 4.5 ppm of formaldehyde as an 8-hr TWA. Describe the minimum respirator that this worker should wear in order to be in compliance with OSHA standards. (Be specific and thorough! Include a description of the face piece and any cartridges). Also give your reason for your selection.

Explanation / Answer

According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) the current value of PEL (Permissible exposure Limit ) and STEL (Short Term Exposure Limit) of both Toluene and Formaldehyde is PEL: 200 ppm TWA, 300 ppm CEILING, 500 ppm 10-minute MAXIMUM PEAK (for Toluene) & PEL: 0.75 ppm TWA, 2 ppm STEL (for formaldehyde) respectively.

So if a worker is working under the condition where he is exposed to 455 ppm of toluene and 4.5 ppm of formaldehyde as an 8-hr TWA, he is working in the environment which comes under IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Values).

So, when thinking about the respirators to be used under these conditions one must consider the physical and chemical properties, its toxicity and concentration of the hazardous material in the environment. Since the worker has to work for 8 hours so an atmosphere-supplying respirator that supplies breathable air from an air compressor through an air-line can provide protection for extended periods.

Since the concentration of contaminants are higher, one must use an atmosphere-supplying respirator such as the positive-pressure SAR offers better protection for a longer period.

However, for minimum protection the worker must wear gloves if hand contact can occur. Glove type (light or heavy duty) and material (Nitrile, Viton, Teflon, etc.) depending on the kind of task. One should use the information in the product’s MSDS to help with good selection. He must also wear safety goggles, face-shield, coveralls, and boots as needed if there is a splash hazard.

Since the exposure here is above permissible exposure limits (PELs) hence respiratory protection must be worn.

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