What is meant by “a check of respirator function” dealing with respirator inspection?

OSHA does require that the respirator be physically placed on the employee to ensure that it is working properly. Visual inspection can detect factors that would interfere with proper performance (e.g., distortion in shape (often the result of improper storage), missing or loose components, blockage, and improper connections). Alarms can also be examined without actually putting the respirator on the employee. In addition, examining elastic parts for pliability and signs of deterioration can be performed without wearing the respirator as required in paragraph (h)(3)(ii)(B) of the standard.