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Respiratory Protection & Airborne Hazards: Keep It Clean, Keep It Safe

Let's talk about something you don't see—but definitely feel. Airborne hazards. Dust. Fumes. Mists. Vapors. The stuff that hangs in the air and messes with your lungs if you're not protected. That's where your respirator comes in. But a respirator's only as good as the condition it's in.

Week 4 is all about Cleaning, Storage, and Responsibility when it comes to respiratory protection. We're not just throwing on a mask and calling it good. You've got to take care of your gear if you want it to take care of you.

Here are a few things to lock in when dealing with respirators on the floor:

1. Clean it after each use.

Sweat, dust, oils—your respirator collects a lot during the day. Always clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use mild soap and warm water. Skip the harsh chemicals. They'll damage the material and reduce protection.

2. Store it the right way.

Don't toss it in your locker or throw it on a dusty shelf—store respirators in a sealed container or bag. Keep them dry, away from direct sunlight, chemicals, or anything that might cause contamination or damage.

3. Replace filters regularly.

You'll know when it's time. Breathing starts to feel harder, or you're catching more odors than usual. Don't wait until you're gasping—swap filters out based on the schedule your facility recommends, or sooner if needed.

4. Check your gear—every time.

Before each use, do a quick check. Look for cracks, dry rot, worn straps, or missing valves. If something feels off—it probably is. Please don't use it.

5. Take foul gear out of the game.

If a respirator is damaged, expired, or in any way—tag it, report it, and remove it from service. No exceptions.

As always, these are potential tips. Please be sure to follow the rules and regulations of your specific facility.

Respiratory protection isn't just about what you wear—it's how you care for it. A clean, well-maintained respirator means you're getting the whole level of protection every time you put it on. It means fewer health risks and more time getting the job done right.

A strong Safety Culture depends on personal responsibility. That means keeping your gear clean, storing it safely, and replacing it when needed. And knowing that your health depends on the steps you take before your shift even starts.

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 #RespiratoryProtection #PPE #AirborneHazards #SafetyFirst #CleanYourGear