(3) Rinse completely in clean, warm water. Because some disinfectants
can damage rubber, elastomer, or metal parts, and because quaternary ammonium
solutions can even cause dermatitis if not rinsed completely from the respirator, the
importance of through rinsing cannot be stressed too strongly.
(4)
Air-dry the part in a clean area.
(5)
Clean other respirator parts as recommended by the manufacturer.
(6) Inspect valves, head straps, and other parts for wear and/or damage;
replace with new parts if defective.
(7)
Insert new filters, cartridges, or canisters; ensure that all seals are tight.
(8)
Place in plastic bag or container for storage.
c. Repairs to respirators or replacement of parts should only be done by the
Installation Respirator Specialist or other experienced personnel, using parts designed
for the particular respirator. Repairs, adjustments, or parts replacement beyond the
manufacturer's recommendations should not be attempted. Regulators and reducing
admission valves are particularly critical parts and should be returned to the
manufacturer or to a trained technician for adjustments or repair.
CAUTION:
Improper disposal of an oxygen generating canister from a closed
circuit SCBA is dangerous. Maintenance personnel should consult
manufacturer's instructions or the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH) TG.
2-26. INSPECTION
a. Respirators should be inspected routinely before and after each use.
Respirators that are not routinely used, such as those kept ready for emergency use,
should be inspected after each use and regularly (monthly, at the minimum) to ensure
that they are in proper working condition. Self-contained breathing apparatus should
also be checked monthly, and air/oxygen cylinders kept fully charged in accordance
with the manufacturer's specifications. Regulator and warning devices must be checked
carefully to ensure that they function correctly. Complete records of inspection date and
findings must be kept for respirators maintained for emergency use.
b. When inspecting respirators, be sure to check the tightness of connectors and
the condition of the face piece, headbands, valves, connecting tubes, and canisters.
During the inspection, respirators should also be checked for leaks. Rubber and soft-
formed material (elastomer) parts must be inspected for pliability and signs of
deterioration. It is helpful to stretch and manipulate rubber and elastomer parts with a
massaging action. This keeps them pliable and flexible and prevents them from
assuming an undesirable "set" during storage.
MD0165
2-43