Hazardous Materials Technician how-to
How to Perform a Respirator User Seal Check
A user seal check confirms your tight-fitting respirator is sealed every time you put it on. It does not replace an annual fit test.
A user seal check confirms your tight-fitting respirator is sealed every time you put it on. It does not replace an annual fit test. In short: inspect; put; negative-pressure, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Inspect the respirator for cracks, worn straps and damaged valves.
Put it on and adjust straps snugly, starting with the lower straps.
Negative-pressure check: cover the cartridges or inlets and inhale gently: the facepiece should collapse slightly and stay collapsed.
Positive-pressure check: cover the exhalation valve and exhale gently: the facepiece should bulge slightly without leaking.
If you feel leaks, readjust and repeat.
Do not enter the work area until you pass both checks.
Safety reminders for hazardous materials technicians
- Never work on a hazardous waste site without current HAZWOPER training
- Wear the PPE and respirator specified in the site safety plan
- Follow decontamination procedures every time you exit
- Report exposures, symptoms and damaged PPE immediately
Key terms
HAZWOPER · Exclusion zone (hot zone) · Contamination reduction zone (warm zone) · Support zone (cold zone) · Decontamination (decon) · PPE levels A–D: see the full hazardous materials technician glossary.