What is Respirator Fit Testing?
A fit test determines if the seal between a respirator and an individual's face is appropriate and is to be done annually. There are two types of tests: qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative is a pass/fail approach that uses one's sense of taste or smell while a quantitative process utilizes a machine to measure the amount of leakage into the facepiece. Customized respirator fit testing is tailored to our client's needs. Employees scheduled are asked to bring the respirator they plan on using on the job to their appointment, and a fit test is performed by our staff. Medical clearance must be in place before the fit test. The examinee is required to be clean-shaven for the fit test.