IOSH Urges Members to Comment on New Respiratory Standard
The draft contains guidance for establishing and implementing a respiratory program, including information on the knowledge and skills necessary for a fit test operator. The plan is to publish the standard by early 2018.
A proposed new standard for respiratory protection is now at the draft consultation stage, and IOSH – the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, located in England is asking its members to comment on it. The ISO 16975 standard will assist with the selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective devices.
IOSH Chartered Fellow Charles Tracey is the convenor of the technical committee that is drafting the standard. "This proposed standard, ISO 16975 part three, will provide organizations with guidance on face fit testing procedures. The introduction of this standard will mean that organizations can ensure the fit testing of devices is competently delivered so they can perform their protective function. Once a competent person has been trained, they won't have to rely on continued support from outside organizations," he explained.
He said it's important for IOSH members to comment on the draft, which contains guidance for establishing and implementing a respiratory program, including information on the knowledge and skills necessary for a fit test operator. The plan is to publish the standard by early 2018.
IOSH members are asked to send their comments to [email protected] by Feb. 5.