When exposed to particulates, vapours and gases in the workplace that can be hazardous to health it is imperative that if a respirator is to be worn that it fits properly.  

All PCBUs need to ensure their workers are provided with appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when there are particulates, gases or vapours present that are hazardous to health and that can't be eliminated or otherwise minimised.  Remember, any form of Personal Protective Equipment is the last thing that should be considered. The Heath and Safety at Work Act 2015 is quite clear in that it is the responsibility of the PCBU to take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure workers have and use RPE when it is necessary to resort to this control. When workers are issued with respirators it is best practice to have in place a documented Respiratory Protection Programme.  A key aspect of this programme is respirator fit testing.

Click on either of the photos below to find out more about these two subjects.  

Testimonials

"Working for Health was engaged by B.E.C.A. consultants on the DC6 site at Fonterra Whareroa in Hawera, to provide a site occupational health nurse for the project. The nurse visited the site twice a month, engaging our work crew in a number of health issues. Our work crew was made up of mainly middle aged men, most were smokers. The nurse was very successful, having 3 of the 11 smokers give up smoking and a further 2 have cut back. The professionalism of the nurse throughout the project has been outstanding and I would not hesitate in recommending Working for Health to any company for health service."  
Bruce Watson
Contract Site Supervisor and HSE Rep at Fulton Hogan
"MODEC Management Services New Zealand (Operators of the Maari Oil Field) have used Working for Health, for over 2 years, and have always found the team to be very professional in their approach to Occupational Health. MODEC use Working for Health for the following: Annual Health Assessments, Pre and Post employment Medicals, Noise Mapping and Specific Atmosphere Monitoring. MODEC has always found the team to be very prompt in their response. Furthermore, they have also been flexible with the challenges of working offshore."  
Morgan Davies
HSSEQ and Training Coordinator, HSSEQ at MODEC Management Services (NZ) Pte Ltd