Cleaning and Storing Respirators Toolbox Talk

Respirators must be properly cleaned, disinfected, inspected, and stored after use to ensure they remain effective and ready for the next task. Dirt, dust, chemicals, moisture, and improper storage can damage respirators, reduce their protective performance, and increase the risk of worker exposure. Good maintenance is an essential part of every respiratory protection program.

This toolbox talk reviews the proper cleaning, storage, and maintenance practices for reusable respirators.

Why This Matters

• Clean respirators provide reliable respiratory protection.
• Proper cleaning helps prevent contamination and the spread of germs.
• Routine maintenance extends the service life of respirators.
• Correct storage protects respirators from damage and contamination.
• Well-maintained equipment is more likely to function properly when needed.

Common Hazards

• Using dirty or contaminated respirators.
• Improper cleaning damaging respirator components.
• Storing respirators where they are exposed to dust, chemicals, sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
• Failing to inspect respirators after cleaning.
• Leaving respirators unprotected in toolboxes, vehicles, or work areas.
• Using damaged or deteriorated respirator components.
• Cross-contamination from sharing respirators without proper cleaning and disinfection.
• Improper storage deforming the facepiece or damaging the sealing surface.

Safety Checklist

After Each Use

• Clean and disinfect reusable respirators according to the manufacturer's instructions and company procedures.
• Remove dirt, dust, sweat, and other contaminants without using cleaning products that could damage respirator materials.
• Allow the respirator to dry completely before storage.
• Inspect the facepiece, straps, valves, and other components for wear or damage.
• Replace damaged or worn parts before the respirator is used again.
• Dispose of single-use respirators according to company procedures when they are no longer serviceable.

Storage

• Store respirators in a clean, dry container or bag that protects them from contamination and physical damage.
• Keep respirators away from direct sunlight, chemicals, oils, moisture, excessive heat, and freezing temperatures.
• Store the respirator so the facepiece and sealing surface are not crushed, bent, or distorted.
• Keep cartridges and filters installed or sealed as recommended by the manufacturer and company procedures.
• Do not store respirators with contaminated PPE or hazardous materials.
• Inspect stored respirators before each use, even if they were cleaned after the previous use.

Crew Talking Points

• When should reusable respirators be cleaned and disinfected?
• Where should respirators be stored between uses?
• What types of damage should be looked for during inspection?
• How should single-use respirators be handled after use?
• Who should be notified if a respirator is damaged during cleaning or storage?
• Speak up immediately if you discover a respirator that is dirty, damaged, or improperly stored.

Stop Work If

• Your respirator is contaminated or cannot be properly cleaned.
• The respirator has damaged, missing, or deteriorated components.
• The facepiece or sealing surface has become distorted.
• The respirator has been improperly stored and its condition is uncertain.
• You cannot verify the respirator is clean, functional, and suitable for use.
• You are unsure whether the respirator will provide adequate protection.

Final Reminder

A respirator is only effective if it is clean, properly maintained, and stored correctly. Clean and inspect your respirator after every use, replace damaged parts promptly, and store it in a protected location to ensure it is ready to provide reliable protection the next time it is needed.