13
H. MAINTENANCE
Respirators should be cleaned after each day’s use by washing with mild soap and
warm water. Then disinfect the respirators with a suitable sanitizing solution. ANSI
Z88.2, latest edition, also provides information and guidelines on the cleaning and
sanitizing of respirators.
1. Cleaning
WARNING
• Specialized processes are required to disinfect and decontaminate a
respirator. You must follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the
equipment and chemicals.
• It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the processes chosen pro
-
vide adequate cleaning, disinfection, and decontamination, and do not
damage the respirator in any way.
• In the absence of a commercial sanitizing product, the hypochlorite so
-
lution described below will eliminate many, but not all biohazards.
• Failure to comply with this warning may lead to personal injury, illness,
or death.
CAUTION
• Do not use solvent type cleaners to clean any part of the respirator.
• Do not use sonic cleaners on respirators equipped with a speaking dia
-
phragm.
a) Remove the cartridges and/or filters.
b) Immerse the facepiece in warm, soapy water and gently scrub with a soft
brush.
c) Rinse thoroughly in fresh water to remove all traces of soap, especially
from the exhalation valve.
d) Disinfect the facepiece in a warm, 120°F (48°C) maximum, suitable sanitiz-
ing solution, such as “hypochlorite” for 2 to 3 minutes. A hypochlorite solu-
tion can be prepared by mixing 2 tablespoons of chlorine bleach per each
gallon of water. Rinse thoroughly with fresh warm, 120°F (48°C) maximum
water.
e) Dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or allow to air dry. Warm air may be used.
f) Carefully inspect the respirator as described in section G. Reinstall the car-
tridges and/or filters before use.
2. Repair (See the Table at the End of this Manual for Replacement Parts)
a. Threaded Connector Replacement
1) Remove cartridges, P100 filters, or filter holders from the facepiece.
2) Remove the damaged threaded connector from the facepiece by pressing
it inward
.
