Which statement is true about respirator maintenance?

The statement about respirator cartridges needing to be stored in an airtight bag to maintain their effectiveness is accurate. Respirator cartridges contain chemicals designed to filter out specific contaminants from the air, and exposure to atmospheric conditions can degrade these chemicals. If cartridges are stored in a manner that allows air and moisture to enter, their filtering capacity can diminish over time, leading to compromised safety when the respirator is subsequently used.

Proper storage in an airtight container helps protect the cartridges from environmental factors that could reduce their lifespan and effectiveness. This practice is crucial for ensuring that the respirator performs as intended when needed.

In the context of the other statements, it is important to note that substituting canisters or cartridges can lead to insufficient protection since compatibility and efficacy may not be ensured. While routine inspections are important, the standard recommendation is typically more frequent than twice a year, given the demanding nature of many work environments. Lastly, while storing prefilters with canisters is practical, it should be noted that their effectiveness is not significantly compromised if stored properly but outside an airtight bag.