Enrollment in the Occupational Health Program

Employees required to use a respirator must enroll in the Occupational Health Program, which includes:

1. Medical Evaluation:

1. • Completion of a medical questionnaire reviewed by a healthcare professional to determine the employee’s ability to wear a respirator safely.
   • Additional medical examinations if necessary, based on the questionnaire responses or if changes in health status occur.

2. Fit Testing:

1. • Mandatory fit testing for all tight-fitting respirators to ensure a proper seal and effective protection.
   • Fit testing must be conducted annually or whenever there are changes in the respirator type or the user’s physical condition.
   • Frequency
     1. Annual requirement
     2. If you gain or lose 15 lbs
     3. Dental or facial surgery

3. Training:

1. • Comprehensive training on the use, maintenance, and limitations of the respirator.
   • Instructions on proper donning and doffing procedures, cleaning, storage, and emergency use.

Policy References

PVAMU’s Respiratory Protection Program must comply with relevant policies outlined in the university’s policy library, including:

• System Regulation 24.01.01: Risk Management Programs
• PVAMU Safety Manual

Reporting and Monitoring

• Supervisors are responsible for identifying personnel who need respirators, facilitating medical evaluations, and ensuring compliance with the respiratory protection program.
• Risk Management & Safety (RMS) provides technical assistance, conducts hazard assessments, and oversees the medical evaluation and fit testing processes.