That being said, we sometimes have to grind samples in knife mills, and this can generate some dust (though still well below the threshold).  Per 1910.134 Appendix D (http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p _table=STANDARDS&p_id=9784) we conduct and document training to ensure that our employees have a firm basis upon which to choose a dust mask appropriate to their task and comfort.

Now, my toxicology group wants to order surgical masks, and since 1910.134 defines a “respirator” as:

Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means a negative pressure particulate respirator with a filter as an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering medium (emphasis added).

In light of the above definition, I am forced to ask:  is a surgical mask considered a ‘respirator’?  Do I now need to document a) that there is no condition which requires use of a respirator/surgical mask/form of protection in the toxicology section and b) that if not, all of the toxicologists are also trained in accordance with Appendix D to 1910.134?

<sigh>

Dr. Bradley K. Norwood

Laboratory Director

Arista Laboratories

1941 Reymet Road< /p>

Richmond, VA  23237< /p>

(804) 271-5572 ext. 307

(804) 641-4641 (cell)

brad.norwood**At_Symbol_Here**aristalabs.com

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