New guidance on respiratory protective equipment released

SafeWork SA has released new guidance on respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

SafeWork says recent compliance audits relating to crystalline silica and licensed asbestos removal highlighted the need for greater education on the selection and use of RPE.

Over the last three years, 62 statutory notices associated with RPE have been issued- 78% of prohibition notices and 48% of improvement notices were issued to the construction industry.

SafeWork SA Executive Director Martyn Campbell said, "selecting the incorrect RPE for the task or RPE that does not fit correctly is ineffective and may give the wearer a false sense of protection.

"For many workers, the incorrect use of RPE is putting their health at risk.

"RPE should be used to manage residual risks of exposure after all other reasonably practicable control measures have been implemented."

Our aim is that by providing guidance on RPE, we will provide clarity on expectations under the WHS Act."

Read SafeWork SA's new guidance information on RPE.