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Purpose
To outline the Respiratory Protection Fit Testing Program as it pertains to the members of the St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD).
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Background
The SJRFD, in compliance with CSA standard Z94.4-02 (Selection, Use and Care of Respirators) and CSA Z198—M1978 (Compressed Breathing Air) is committed to providing proper respiratory protection, education, health surveillance and fit testing to all personnel involved with fire suppression. This process ensures personnel are knowledgeable in appropriate respirator use and care.
This replaces POG #02-02-08, "Respiratory Protection Fit Testing", dated 2014/07/09.
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Policy Statement
1.All suppression/ training personnel will participate in SCBA Training which is administered annually by the Training Division.
2.Quantitative fit testing (Appendix A) will be completed on personnel annually, alternating between SCBA and N95 by the OHN or other trained designate in quantitative fit testing.
3.Records of the fit test will be maintained electronically and a copy will be placed on the Employee Wellness chart.
4.If an employee fails a SCBA fit test, then the OHN will immediately notify the Deputy Fire Chief and send the employee to Atlantic Offshore Medical Services (AOMS) for a second opinion. If AOMS indicates a pass, then the employee’s file will be updated with a pass grade. If AOMS advises the OHN of a fail, then the employee’s file will be updated with the fail status and the employee will be removed from suppression until a suitable mask is acquired.
5.Any employee requiring special masks or adaptations, the OHN will advise the Deputy Fire Chief and the Fire Equipment Technician who will coordinate the accommodations.
6.Health Surveillance will be addressed through the biannual Wellness Fitness Medical which is completed by AOMS and includes a respiratory medical. If there is a change to a person’s physical condition, they can be sent for testing before their biannual scheduled test. AOMS will advise the OHN of any restrictions that may impact personnel from their duties. Should there be a medical issue noted preventing the use of SCBA, the Deputy Fire Chief will be notified by the OHN immediately.
NOTE
All Operational Guidelines are provided as a guideline only and may be altered by the OIC to meet extenuating circumstances. |
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Approvals
Fire Chief/Director
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Responsibility
St. John's Regional Fire Department
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Appendix/Appendices
Appendix A – Quantitative Portacount Steps
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