Starting a job requiring a respirator can feel overwhelming. Fit testing is one of the first things that will ensure your safety on the job and help your equipment function properly. Click here to learn more. This beginner guide explains what fit testing is, how it is performed, and what you can do before and after the appointment.
What Is Fit Testing?
Fit testing determines if the specific model and size of respirator fit snugly to your face. A proper fit is necessary to seal out harmful dusts, mists, fumes, or biological aerosols at the edges. Under the OSHA 1910.134 standard, you will need to be fit tested at least annually, and any time your face shape or the model of respirator changes.
A fit test is not to be confused with a daily user seal check. You will still conduct a quick seal check each time you put the respirator on, but the fit test is an observed and documented process completed by a trained tester.
Qualitative vs Quantitative Fit Tests
There are two acceptable methods that will be chosen for your fit testing depending on the respirator use and your job tasks. Both methods involve a series of head and breathing movements to challenge the seal of the respirator and evaluate the effectiveness of the seal while wearing the mask.
- Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT): utilizes a test hood and an agent (such as Bitrex or saccharin) derived from taste or smell. If you can taste/smell the agent, your respirator is not fitting correctly. It’s a pass/fail test and is more typically used for filtering facepiece respirators (e.g., many N95s) and half-mask elastomeric respirators. Check https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bss7wvGBNh0 for more information.
- Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT): uses an instrument (for example, a PortaCount) to measure the amount of leakage and calculate a specific “fit factor.” It is required for a tight-fitting full-face respirator but is also used with half masks. There is no taste/smell, and the test is recorded as a number.
How to Prepare for a Test
Make sure you are clean-shaven anywhere that the respirator will come in direct contact with your skin – even the shortest stubble can disrupt the seal. Don’t eat, drink sweetened beverages, or chew gum for 15-30 minutes prior to a qualitative test so the taste-based agent works properly. Make sure to bring the exact make, model, and size of the respirator you expect to be using on the job, as well as any eyewear or other PPE that may affect the seal.
Before you get to your appointment, make sure you have completed any respirator medical clearance and the medical evaluation questionnaire (MEQ), if required by your employer. A lot of companies can handle this in the online scheduling portal so some of the paperwork can be completed in advance to help move along the process. If you are already wearing a specific brand at another location, keep in mind that the various brands and models fit differently, and do not assume that the same size will fit in every situation.
Common Fit Test Failures
The most common reasons for failure fit-test results are small issues that can be easily fixed once you know what to look for. Your tester will guide you through the process, and they will note your adjustments and fit-test outcome into your company’s digital fit-test record management system, so your supervisor will have a record to check or follow up.
- Facial hair or stubble in the seal area: Even a day’s growth can cause leaks.
- Wrong size/model: Everyone’s features are different so you may need a different size or a different brand to make it fit your features.
- Straps too loose or twisted: If loose or twisted, tension or strap placement could break the seal, especially near the nose and chin.
- PPE interference: Safety glasses, face shields, or hard hats could push the respirator off your face if not adjusted together.
- Poor donning technique: Skipping a user seal check or rushing through the steps often lead to a failure result.
Next Steps After Testing
If you pass, your card or certificate will indicate the make, model, style, and size you are permitted to wear. Make only this make, model and size, keep back-ups, and perform user seal checks every time you put the respirator on. If you fail, that is fine, ask to try a different size or model or review a step in retraining until you pass.
You will want to keep your results in view for your supervisor or for their respiratory protection program administrator. You will need another fit test at least annually and sooner if you change respirator models, have major dental work, changes to weight, have facial surgery, or are going to grow a new facial hair style or length. Between fit-tests – you should store your respirator clean and dry, replace parts as scheduled, and speak up if it feels wrong because a good fit is where your safety begins.