TAKEAWAY: The CSA Group is a standards organization that develops standards in several areas, including respirator selection, care, use, and testing. Formerly known as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), the CSA Group is integral to SureHire’s Respirator-Fit Testing program.

By Elly McGuinness

In conjunction with NIOSH, OSHA, and OHS, the CSA Group forms part of the framework for how SureHire conducts Respirator-Fit Testing. This article is the third and final part of our series decoding these acronyms. Read on to find out what CSA does and its role in Respirator-Fit Testing.

What is the CSA Group?

The CSA Group is a global leader in standards development, testing, inspection, and certification. Their primary aims are to enhance public safety, improve the quality of life, preserve the environment, and facilitate trade. 

CSA Group started as the Canadian Engineering Standards Association (CESA) as the first Canadian organization to develop commercial and industrial standards exclusively. In 1944 it became CSA, and in 2012, the CSA Group better reflected its scope.

The CSA Group develops and administers standards in a broad selection of industry sectors. These include health and safety, electronic, business management systems, construction, sustainability, etc.

CSA Group is an independent, not-for-profit organization recognized by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).

Anyone can submit a proposal to request a standard from CSA Group. For example, a government department or consumer organization may see a need for a standard that they’ll put forward for the CSA Group to consider.

Why are standards required for respirators, and what role do different organizations play?

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is an essential health and safety consideration for many industries and job roles. It helps minimize the chance of inhaling dangerous substances and reduces the risk of respiratory conditions, ultimately helping keep workers safe and well.

Standards are crucial to ensure respirators meet minimum safety and quality requirements. They are also imperative for RPE use, such as SureHire’s Respirator-Fit Testing program. A respirator that meets health and safety standards is one part of the equation, and correct fit and use are another.

Several industries come together in various aspects of respirator health and safety. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sets performance criteria for respirators, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) tests and certifies respirators.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets respirator safety standards and provides guidance and training. OSHA standards are enforceable by U.S. law. CSA Group standards are generally consistent but go into greater detail than OSHA standards.

Companies and organizations can purchase relevant occupational health and safety-related standards from CSA, such as maintenance of electrical systems, full-body harnesses, and selection, care, and use of respirators.

What are the CSA Group standards for respirators? 

CSA Group standards are regularly reviewed and refreshed in line with requirements and technology development. Each standard is revised every five years, at a minimum. 

CSA Group respirator standards specify that respirator selection is based on workplace hazards, current regulatory guidelines, and manufacturer information. A hazard assessment covers aspects such as the presence of contaminants and their source, acceptable exposure limits, signs and symptoms of irritation, and how dangerous they are.

What are the CSA Group standards for Respirator-Fit Testing?

Respirator-Fit Testing (also known as Mask-Fit Testing) ensures the respirator is the right fit for the person and worn correctly. SureHire’s Respirator-Fit Testing program follows the CSA group standards for respirator-fit testing, including the following.

When to test

Respirator-fit testing must be carried out at least every two years. Although this is the minimum requirement, industry bodies may recommend or require annual testing. 

Employers should arrange testing after user screening, during or after training, and before using a respirator.  It is also necessary to carry out Respirator-Fit Testing for any replacement respirator or when the person’s physical condition changes if it could affect the respirator fit.

Type of test

CSA Group standards allow a qualitative or quantitative mask-fit test. A qualitative test relies on taste or smell to detect leakage or a tight fit. Quantitative tests use specific equipment to test the respirator, which is considered the gold standard. SureHire uses the OSHA-compliant Portacount Pro Respirator Fit Tester as a quantitative testing method, reverting to qualitative testing at partner locations where it’s not available.

Personal testing considerations

The CSA Group standards require that the person testing the mask is clean-shaven in the area where the mask seals to the skin. Small patches of short facial hair that don’t interfere with the sealing surface may be acceptable. However, a clean-shaven policy is a more straightforward assurance that testing will be accurate. Although hair growth rate varies, this often requires the person to shave 12-24 hours before testing.

Accessories mustn’t affect the respirator fit. Items such as facial jewelry and head coverings must not come between the mask and seal, and the person should present themself in the same physical condition as when they’ll wear the respirator. Considerations for respirator fit include hairstyles and glasses or contact lenses. Make-up and lotions can also affect respirator effectiveness.

CSA Group and Respirator-Fit Testing | In Conclusion

OSHA recognizes the CSA Group to set standards across various industries and sectors. They provide standards for respirators and respirator-fit testing, with which SureHire complies.

Employees in industries with a high risk of lung health issues should invest in Respirator-Fit Testing to protect employees fully. Not only is it imperative to select a respirator that meets minimum safety requirements, but it’s also crucial to select one that fits the user correctly.

Contact us for more information about lung health testing services such as Respirator-Fit Testing, Spirometry Testing, Lead Exposure and Health Monitoring, and Lung Health Monitoring programs.

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