FAQ
What are the legal obligations for an employer to provide RPE training?
Workplace Health and Safety Regulations note employers have a duty of care to provide information, training & instruction in regards to foreseeable workplace health and safety risks and the control measures implemented. When an employee is provided with or required to wear RPE, AS/NZS 1715:2019 “Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment” requires employers to train employees on the use of the equipment.
Our training covers key obligations for both the employee and employer to meet under WHS regulations and requirements under the relevant Australian / New Zealand Standard.
Is the training nationally recognised?
On successful completion of the training participants will receive a Certificate of Completion for the course. The training is developed by accredited Occupational Hygienists and designed to meet relevant Australian / New Zealand Standards. At this stage there is no nationally recognised competency for this type of training.
What will participants learn?
On completion participants will understand how to correctly fit and wear respirators. Participants will also be taught the correct selection of respirators for types of airborne hazards, their obligations while wearing RPE in the workplace as well as the limitations of respirators. Knowledge acquired through the training modules is reinforced through targeted test questions.
Course duration?
The P2/N95 disposable respirator training course is split into 6 modules and takes approximately 15-25 minutes to complete. The course is provided entirely online meaning participants can undertake the training in their own time and space, without the need to enter crowded classrooms.
How much does the training cost?
The P2/N95 disposable respirator training course cost is currently FREE. Employers can directly purchase access for their employees by emailing info@masksafety.com.au . For bulk enrolments of over 40 participants you can apply for your own landing page.
What is the most common mask type to protect wearers from airborne pathogens (including carona virus or COVID-19)?
P2 / N95 disposable respirators are typically used by healthcare workers or cleaners for protection from diseases spread by droplet and airborne transmission. These types of masks are typically issued to workers in the front line who are at risk of coming into contact with people who are potentially carrying infectious diseases.
How do I know if my mask is illegitimate or fake?
All provided RPE should be manufactured in accordance with Australian Standard 1716:2012 “Respiratory Protective Equipment”. Compliant products typically have the labelling “AS1716” printed on the packaging or respirator itself.
Are surgical masks suitable to protect me from airborne pathogens (including carona virus or COVID-19)?
Surgical or patient care masks do not protect the wearer from airborne contaminants such as bio-aerosols. These masks protect the wearer from splashes of large droplets of blood or body fluids only. They can also help to protect others from the wearer by minimising the spread of a cough or sneeze. These masks will not be marked with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1716:2012.
What is the correct way to remove and dispose of a respirator?
Removal of the respirator involves pulling the straps back over the user's head, taking care not to touch the front face piece. The user should only handle the respirator by the straps. The respirator should then be disposed of in a closed or designated bin.
Can I reuse a disposable respirator?
Disposable masks should be replaced after each use. The recommended duration of use will vary from individual to individual and depend on the work being carried out (exposure time and environment to which the airborne hazard is encountered). Reuse of disposable masks is not recommended and should only occur in a last resort situation.