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NIOSH Notice May Affect Paint Spray RespiratorsThe National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently conducted an investigation involving a dust/mist filter which was approved under Title 30, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 11. NIOSH investigated a report involving the presence of a fine yellow-white dust on a limited number of "packaged," unused dust/mist filters that were approximately four years old. Since respirator manufacturers have not produced these filters since July 10, 1998, any dust/mist filters, remaining in the field, are at least four years old. Paint spray respirators that were processed using the same methods might also be affected. After examination of the sample filter NIOSH suggested that the zinc/calcium salt resin that is applied as a coating to the individual filter fibers can crumble, resulting in the release of small particles of the resin. There are no known health risks associated with exposure to the zinc/calcium salt resin. Recommendation NIOSH recommends that any respirator user who is still using these filters replace them. For more information about the performance and/or useful shelf life of respirator filters contact the manufacturer directly. If you have questions about respirator use and approval, NIOSH provides the Certified Equipment List which is a database of all NIOSH approved respirators that you can search online or download to your computer. Obtain additional information from NIOSH by contacting Mr. Lynn Rethi at 412-386-6686. Source: NIOSH
Respirators User Notice, September 4, 2002.
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Search EPA's ECHO (Enforcement and Compliance History Online). --------------------------- |
