Respirator Fit Testing

OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.134


All Respirators that rely on a mask-to-face seal need to be annually checked with either qualitative or quantitative methods to determine whether the mask provides an acceptable fit to a wearer.

The QUALITATIVE fit test procedures rely on a subjective sensation (taste, irritation, smell) of the respirator wearer to a particular test agent.

  • Also called the odor test or irritant test.

  • If the odor or irritation is noticed, the unit must be refitted or another one used.
  • The test is only as accurate as the user's sense of smell or sensitivity to irritation.


    • The QUANTITATIVE fit test procedure utilizes the 5-step CNP REDON Respirator Fit Test Protocol with the OHD Fit Tester 3000. This testing measures face seal leaking.
  • Necessary before entering a highly toxic atmosphere.

  • The respirator is connected to instruments that measure how much of the test agent gets into the facepiece.

  • You get an actual numbered measurement.


    • The relative workplace exposure level determines what constitutes an acceptable fit and seal leakage.

    For negative pressure air purifying respirators, users may rely on either a qualitative or quantitative fit test procedure for exposure levels less than 10 times the occupational exposure limit.

    Exposure levels greater than 10 times the occupational exposure limit must utilize a quantitative fit test procedure for these respirators.

    Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators and tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators shall be accomplished by performing quantitative or qualitative fit testing in the negative pressure mode.


    We offer both qualitative and quantitative fit testing at either our facility or yours.


    NOTE: You must provide the mask you will actually be using on the job. The fit test is designed to check to see that the mask you wear is functioning properly. Not using the correct mask could result in an improperly fitting mask.

    STS does not perform the necessairly medical evaluation. This evaluation, which consists of a pulminary function test, must be taken before your actual fit testing to determine if you can safely wear a mask.



    ATTENTION FIREFIGHTERS AND DEPARTMENTS

    According to the new NFPA 1500-20, all fire departments are required to ensure that the facepiece seal capability shall be verified by Quantitative Fit Testing on an annual basis and whenever new types of RPE or facepieces are issued. (7.12.1 Fit Testing.)

    The protection facture produced shall be at least 500 for negative-pressure facepieces for the person to pass the fitting test with that make of full facepiece. (7.12.6)




    Contact the STS - Training Center.