Voluntary Respirator Use: What You Need to Know

PPE
English (NZ)

The Problem

Respirators, including dust masks, are a key form of personal protection, but improper use can give workers a false sense of security. In New Zealand, voluntary use of dust masks is common on job sites, but even this comes with specific guidelines and limitations. Today, we’ll discuss how to use dust masks safely, understand their limitations, and follow best practice guidance from WorkSafe NZ to protect your health.

Identify the Hazards

  • Misuse or Improper Selection: Using dust masks for hazards they can’t protect against (e.g. fumes, vapours, gases).

  • False Sense of Security: Assuming a dust mask protects against all airborne contaminants.

  • Poor Maintenance: Dirty, damaged, or shared respirators can reduce their effectiveness.
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  • Lack of Awareness: Workers may not understand the limits or care requirements of the respirator.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

Understand Voluntary vs. Required Use:

  • Required Use: Requires a full respiratory protection programme with fit testing and health monitoring, in accordance with AS/NZS 1715.
  • Voluntary Use: Fewer requirements, but must still follow safe work practices.
  • Dust masks are only suitable for nuisance dusts—not hazardous materials.

Proper Selection:

  • Use respirators certified under AS/NZS 1716.
  • Select the right respirator type for the hazard present.
  • Ensure a good fit—one size does not fit all.
  • Understand that dust masks do not protect against:

    • Gases or vapours
    • Fumes or smoke
    • Oxygen-deficient environments

Proper Care and Use:

  • Follow manufacturer instructions for fitting, use, and maintenance.
  • Keep respirators clean and store them in a dry, clean area—off the dashboard and out of toolboxes.
  • Replace masks when dirty, damaged, or no longer sealing properly.
  • Never share respirators between workers.

Key Dos and Don’ts:
 Do:

  • Read all instructions before use
  • Ensure it is certified under AS/NZS 1716
  • Store it in a clean, dry place
  • Replace it when worn, wet, or damaged

Don’t:

  • Share respirators
  • Use for hazards like fumes or gases
  • Exceed the limitations of the dust mask
  • Modify or tamper with the respirator

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

A worker used a dust mask during a task involving solvent vapours. The dust mask offered no protection because it was not rated for vapour exposure. The worker developed breathing issues and required medical attention. This incident could have been avoided by understanding the limitations of the mask and using the correct type of respiratory protection.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Choose the correct respirator for the job—look for AS/NZS 1716 certification.

  • Inspect and replace your dust mask when necessary.

  • Store it properly when not in use.
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  • Do not share or alter respirators.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide workers with guidance on the voluntary use of respirators.

  • Ensure employees are aware of the limitations of dust masks.

  • Provide clean storage options.
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  • Replace respirators as required.

Discussion & Questions

  • “Where do we store our dust masks to keep them clean and dry?”
  • “How do you know when your mask needs to be replaced?”
  • “Which tasks typically require the use of dust masks?”
  • “What’s the best way to ensure no one accidentally shares a mask?”

Encourage team members to share their thoughts and practical suggestions.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to using dust masks only when suitable, replacing them when necessary, and storing them correctly. Before starting work today, check your respirator—make sure it’s clean, dry, and fit for purpose.

Wrap-Up

Dust masks are not one-size-fits-all solutions and have limitations. By understanding when and how to use them properly, we can avoid harm and ensure they offer the protection intended. Thank you for making respiratory protection part of your safety focus.

Standards Overview

  • AS/NZS 1715: Sets out requirements for the selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
  • AS/NZS 1716: Specifies performance criteria for respiratory protection devices.
  • WorkSafe NZ expects all workplaces to follow these standards and ensure workers are protected from airborne risks.

Disclaimer

These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.

The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.

It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.

The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

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Last Updated:
April 28, 2025