Respirator Fit Testing

Safe-T-Works provides technicians certified in qualitative fit testing for all brands, models, styles, and sizes of half mask respirators including N95’s and SCBA devices. The device the employee is tested in must be the device they wear in the performance of their job duties.

Testing may be conducted in our offices or we can come directly to your facility to provide testing tailored to your organization’s needs while following 29 CFR 1910.134 App A, Part I. OSHA – Accepted Fit Test Protocols.

If you are required to wear a respirator in the workplace, you must be retested:

• At least every 12 months.
• Each time your employer or employee changes brands, models, or styles of respirators.
• If there is a change in your physical condition that could affect the fit of your respirator – which could include:
  • Substantial weight changes
  • Major dental work
  • Facial Surgery
  • Facial scarring in the areas of the seal
  • Facial hair in the areas of the seal

If your employees are required to wear other PPE such a safety glasses, goggles, or earmuffs while performing their jobs, they must wear them during the qualitative fit test to be sure they do not interfere with the respirator’s fit.

Qualitative Fit testing is a PASS / FAIL test method using your sense of taste or smell or your reaction to an irritant to detect leakage

Safe-T-Works utilizes the following test methods:

• Saccharin – which leaves a sweet taste in the mouth.
• Bitrex – which leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.