Steps for Properly Obtaining a Respirator

Do not buy a respirator! 

• 1. For new hazards/job duties: contact the EHS Occupational Safety Team.

  Call the EHS Occupational Safety Team (517-355-0153) to discuss the hazards to be encountered, and determine if an assessment needs to be performed.

• 2. Get cleared to wear a respirator by MSU Occupational Health.

  Unpaid students using the respirator for coursework do not need to complete this step - go to step 3.

  Employees: Check your status with MSU Occupational Health at https://herd.msu.edu. Under Health Risks, verify that you have an active Respirator requirement and that the Compliance column shows "Compliant."

  

  If you are not compliant, you will be required to complete a respirator questionnaire. See: http://occhealth.msu.edu/resources/respirator-clearance.

  Your fit-test cannot be scheduled until you are cleared by Occupational Health.

  Medical clearance must be renewed periodically (interval determined by MSU Occupational Health). Coming due and expired notifications are sent by MSU Occupational Health.

• 3. Schedule a respirator fit-test and training with MSU Environmental Health & Safety.

  To schedule an appointment:

  • Vet Med personnel, contact Stephanie Smith-Edwards (517-574-8766)
  • All other personnel, select an available appointment in Microsoft Bookings; contact EHS.Respirators@msu.edu with questions

  Preparing for the Fit Test Appointment

  • Men must be clean shaven where the mask will seal on the face. Mustache and goatee are acceptable as long as no hair interferes with the sealing of the mask.
  • Long hair must be worn pulled back or put up away from the face.

  
  During the Fit Test Appointment

  • You will be given options for masks. You may choose a comfortable mask.
  • When you pass the fit test:
    • N95 respirator – you will obtain the manufacturer, model and size information as well as training.
    • Other respirators – you will be given information for ordering, cartridge selection and change out.

  
  After the Fit Test Appointment

  • EHS will add the fit-test/training record in the Ability Training Compliance system.

  
  Fit-tests must be completed annually. Coming due and expired notifications are sent from ORRS.train@msu.edu.