Understanding Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) in the Workplace: Compliance Under HSWA 2015
When it comes to protecting workers from harmful airborne contaminants, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) plays a crucial role. While the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA 2015) sets out the overarching responsibilities for managing risks to worker health, the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 (GRWM) provide specific guidance on using RPE effectively.
Ensuring RPE is correctly selected, implemented, and maintained is vital for managing health risks associated with dust, fumes, vapours, and other airborne hazards in New Zealand workplaces. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
What Is RPE and Why Is It Necessary?
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is a type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) designed to protect workers from inhaling hazardous substances. It is typically required when other control measures—such as elimination, substitution, or engineering controls—cannot adequately manage the risk.
Common airborne hazards include:
Dust from grinding, cutting, or demolitions.
Fumes from welding or soldering.
Vapours from paints, solvents, or chemicals.
Biological hazards such as mould spores or bacteria.
Under HSWA 2015, PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) have a duty to ensure worker health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes minimising exposure to airborne hazards using the hierarchy of controls. RPE, as an administrative control, is used as a final safeguard when higher-order controls are not sufficient.
Legal Responsibilities Under HSWA 2015 and GRWM Regulations
The HSWA 2015 and GRWM Regulations outline specific duties for PCBUs regarding RPE:
Identifying and Managing Risks
PCBUs must identify airborne hazards through a thorough risk assessment. Where risks cannot be eliminated, they must be minimised using appropriate controls, including RPE.Providing Suitable RPE
RPE must be fit for purpose, appropriate for the specific hazard, and meet relevant AS/NZS standards (e.g., AS/NZS 1715:2009 for selection and use).
It must consider factors such as fit, type, comfort, and duration of use.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Fit-Testing
A fit test is essential for tight-fitting RPE to ensure an effective seal and protection for the wearer. This is particularly important for masks like:Disposable P2 respirators.
Half-face and full-face respirators.
Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) with facepieces.
Providing Training and Information
PCBUs must train workers on:How to properly use, wear, and adjust RPE.
How to maintain and clean RPE.
The limitations of the equipment.
Monitoring and Maintenance
RPE must be regularly inspected, maintained, and replaced when worn or damaged. PCBUs must also ensure clean storage to prevent contamination.Consulting Workers
PCBUs must involve workers in decisions around selecting and implementing RPE to ensure it is practical, effective, and used correctly.
Types of RPE and When to Use Them
The choice of RPE depends on the hazard, exposure levels, and workplace conditions. Common types include:
Air-Purifying Respirators (APR)
Disposable masks: For dust and non-toxic particulates.
Half-face respirators: With filters for particulates, gases, and vapours.
Full-face respirators: Offering greater protection, including for eyes.
Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPR)
These use a fan to draw air through filters, reducing breathing resistance and providing higher protection.Supplied-Air Respirators (SAR)
Used in environments with oxygen deficiency or highly toxic contaminants. These supply clean air from a tank or air line.
Best Practices for RPE Use
To ensure RPE is effective, follow these WorkSafe NZ-aligned best practices:
Risk Assessments First
Always identify hazards and attempt to manage them using higher-order controls before relying on RPE.Select the Right Equipment
Match RPE to the specific hazard, ensuring it meets appropriate standards. For example, P2-rated respirators protect against fine particulates, while organic vapour filters are used for solvents.Ensure Proper Fit
Conduct fit-testing for tight-fitting RPE.
Facial hair can compromise the seal, so ensure workers are clean-shaven when using tight-fitting masks.
Train and Supervise Workers
Provide comprehensive training on:RPE use and maintenance.
Identifying signs of wear or failure.
Cleaning and storing equipment properly.
Regularly Inspect and Replace RPE
Set up schedules for inspection and replacement of worn or defective equipment. Disposable RPE should never be reused.Monitor Usage
Supervisors must ensure workers use RPE consistently and correctly throughout tasks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Despite good intentions, errors in RPE implementation can reduce its effectiveness. Key mistakes include:
Using incorrect or inadequate RPE for the hazard.
Failing to fit-test workers for tight-fitting respirators.
Allowing damaged or dirty RPE to be used.
Relying solely on RPE without first addressing hazards through higher-level controls.
Final Thoughts
While RPE is a vital safeguard, it should always be viewed as the last line of defence within the hierarchy of controls. Under the HSWA 2015 and GRWM Regulations, PCBUs have clear responsibilities to identify hazards, implement effective controls, and ensure RPE is fit for purpose, well-maintained, and used correctly.
At Advanced Safety, we’re here to help you navigate your responsibilities, from risk assessments to selecting and implementing the right RPE for your workplace.
Need guidance on meeting compliance or improving respiratory safety on-site? Contact us today and let’s work together to keep your people safe and healthy.
