OHST Practice Exam

When supplying breathing air to five or more abrasive blasting respirators, what is the minimum amount of air to be supplied to each unit?

1. 3 CFM

2. 6 CFM

3. 9 CFM

4. 12 CFM

The correct answer is: 9 CFM

When supplying breathing air to abrasive blasting respirators, it is essential to ensure that each unit receives an adequate amount of air for proper safety and functionality. The minimum requirement is set to 9 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per unit when supplying air to five or more respirators simultaneously. This ensures that each user is adequately ventilated, reducing the risk of respiratory problems caused by insufficient air supply. Adequate flow rates are critical in environments where airborne particles, hazardous substances, or contaminants are present, as they help maintain a safe breathing environment. Choosing a standard of 9 CFM for each abrasive blasting respirator is aimed at providing a sufficient safety margin in air quantity, allowing for individual variations in respiration rates and ensuring that the air remains uncontaminated during the supply process. Therefore, this choice is based on established safety regulations and guidelines aimed at protecting the health and well-being of operators in abrasive blasting operations.