Table 1.

Respiratory protection program written policy elements present: N = 23

Elements	n	%
Presence of written RPP: to provide a clear policy and specific procedures for the use of respirators in protecting employees from respiratory hazards	21	91.3
Program administrator: to assign responsibility for ensuring full implementation and evaluation of the written program to a suitably trained employee	9	39.1
Medical evaluation: to ensure that employees are able to wear respirators safely	16	69.6
Fit testing: to choose the brand, model, and size of respirator that provides the best fit for each individual employee and to provide an opportunity to review proper donning and doffing procedures	15	65.2
Record keeping: to maintain a record of individual medical evaluations and fit tests and to ensure the availability of the written program	12	52.2
Training and information: to ensure that employees understand their facility's written program and the purpose of and limitations of respirators and that they are trained in the specific procedures for proper use and maintenance	15	65.2
Respirator selection: to determine which types of NIOSH-approved respirators will be required for each job or task based on an evaluation of respiratory hazards	14	60.9
Use of respirators: to provide clear, written policies and procedures for proper use of respirators by employees	15	65.2
Maintenance and care of respirators: to provide clear, written procedures for storage, care, and maintenance of respirators	14	60.9
Program evaluation: to ensure that the written program is being implemented and that it continues to be effective	11	47.8

NIOSH, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health; RPP, respiratory protection program.