AOHC Encore 2024-404 Using Standing Orders to Grant Respirator Medical Approval

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this presentation, Dr. Thomas Bender discusses the importance of respiratory protection and medical approvals, focusing on the use of standing orders to streamline the process. He emphasizes the need to ensure employees are medically approved before fit testing and provides a detailed analysis of how to approach various medical conditions in the context of respirator use. Dr. Bender highlights the unique challenges posed by conditions like epilepsy and the importance of individualized evaluations. He discusses the use of positive air purifying respirators (PAPRs) for specific medical conditions and the need to tailor medical approvals based on the type of respirator to be worn. The presentation also addresses the issue of administrative disqualification for fit testing and the option for employees to purchase their own PAPRs if needed. Dr. Bender encourages feedback and exchange of materials for those interested in implementing a similar approach, potentially leading to a publication on the topic. Overall, the presentation underscores the significance of comprehensive and individualized respiratory medical approvals in diverse occupational settings.

Keywords

respiratory protection

medical approvals

standing orders

fit testing

medical conditions

epilepsy

positive air purifying respirators

PAPRs

administrative disqualification

individualized evaluations