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Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards: Fit Testing and Medical Evaluations

Breathing is something we don’t think about—until it gets hard to do. In a warehouse environment, airborne hazards like dust, fumes, or chemical vapors can put workers at risk quickly. That’s where respiratory protection comes in. But having a respirator isn’t enough. It needs to fit correctly, be appropriately used, and, most importantly, be safe for you to wear.

One of the top priorities of a solid Safety Culture is making sure every team member is not only equipped—but cleared and trained—to use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly. This week, we’re focusing on two of the most critical pieces of that process: Fit Testing and Medical Evaluations.

A mask that doesn’t seal is a mask that doesn’t protect. And a worker who’s not cleared to wear one can face serious health risks. So let’s talk through what to watch for.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to fit testing and medical evaluations:

• Get fit tested every year. No exceptions. Also, if you lose or gain significant weight, undergo dental surgery, or change the model of your respirator, you’ll need a new fit test. Faces change. So does fit.
• Keep facial hair trimmed. A beard, stubble, or even long sideburns can break the seal on a tight-fitting respirator. That means it’s not doing its job. Clean-shaven is the safest way to go.
• Medical clearance comes first. Before someone uses a respirator—even once—they need to complete a medical evaluation. It’s not red tape. It’s a health check to make sure their lungs and heart can handle the added strain.
• Check the seal every time. Positive and negative seal checks take seconds. Cover the valves and breathe in or out. If you feel air leaking, something’s off. Stop and fix it before starting work.
• Speak up if something feels wrong. If you’re short of breath, lightheaded, or your respirator feels loose or broken—report it. Right away. This stuff isn’t minor. Don’t wait and see.

Respirators protect you from what you can’t see—dust, vapors, airborne contaminants. But only if they’re used right. That starts with knowing they fit, knowing you’re cleared to wear them, and making checks a habit every single time.

A lot of injuries are visible—cuts, falls, burns. Respiratory issues sneak up. Sometimes the damage is done before you even realize it. Fit testing and medical evaluations are your front-line defense. Respect the process. Trust the equipment. And if something’s off—say something.

Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.

Until we meet next time – have a great week, and STAY SAFE!

#Safety #SafetyCulture #RespiratorSafety #FitTesting #PPEAwareness #BreatheSafe #AirQuality #AirborneHazards