Respirator
Fit Testing
Respirator fit testing is now a mandatory requirement of the AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices and must be performed on all tight fitting respirators.
Fit testing is used to assess whether the respirator assigned to a person forms an adequate seal around their face.
Environmental Health Solutions (EHS) verifies whether the wearer is provided the required level of protection against exposure to hazardous atmospheric contaminants such as dusts, mists, fumes, gases, vapours and biological contaminants such as influenza and other infectious diseases.
Environmental Health Solutions (EHS) conducts respirator fit testing that’s fast, easy and accurate for all types and brands of respirators at your workplace using the latest PortaCount quantitative fit test technology.
This fit test method measures respirator fit whilst the user performs a series of moving, breathing and talking exercises designed to simulate actual use in the workplace.
What to fit test?
- Disposable masks
- Half face canister masks
- Full face canister masks
- Full face self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) masks
- Full face powered air purifying (PAPR) masks
When to fit test?
- Before a respirator is first issued to the wearer
- Annually on all wearers who wear one or more of the abovementioned masks
- If the wearer’s face undergoes significant changes (weight changes, surgery)
How long does the fit test take?
- Approximately 15 minutes per test including training on correct fitting, maintenance and use of the respirator
Who requires fit testing?
- Anyone who wears a respirator
- Industry and Construction
- Asbestos removalists
- Hospitals and Healthcare
- Emergency Services
- Law Enforcement
- Military
- Mining
