Face fit testing is a process to verify that the selected make, model and size of a tight-fitting respiratory protective device adequately fits the wearer, and to check that the wearer knows how to correctly inspect, don, doff and perform a wearer-seal check (fit check) on the specific respiratory protective device.

There are two types of fit tests: qualitative and quantitative. The main difference between the fit test methods is that qualitative testing relies subjectively on the wearer’s taste, smell, and their ability to detect leakage. By contrast, quantitative fit testing objectively measures the existence of leakage around the seal and also the amount of leakage that is occurring.

Quantitative fit testing is considered the gold standard for workers exposed to hazardous particles in the workplace, and it is this methodology that Fit 4 Fit uses to fit test.

Fit testing is conducted using a PortaCount, The machine samples the ambient air outside and air inside the respirator while the wearer performs a series of exercises, and calculates a fit factor by dividing the outside concentration by the inside concentration. The resulting fit factor must score above 100 for half face respirators and above 1000 for full face respirators.

Quantitative fit testing takes approximately 15-20 minutes if a pass is achieved however, 30 minutes per test is allowed.

We need to know what make and model of respirator and filters are provided in your workplace prior to testing.

* While we can offer suggestions for respirators on the day of the test, we are not able to provide specific advice on respirators to use in your workplace however, we are able to provide referral to a specialist occupational hygiene service provider with air monitoring expertise across a diverse array of sectors.

During the fit testing appointment, we show your workers how to:
- assemble and inspect the respirator;
- don and doff the respirator;
- complete a fit check;
- change filters; and
- how to clean and store the respirator.

People’s facial features vary significantly in shape and size so it is unlikely that one model or size of respirator will fit everyone. Fit is important because it involves seal, compatibility, comfort and stability. Inadequate fit significantly reduces the wearer’s protection and may result in immediate and/or long-term health effects.

Health and safety legislation places obligations on a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to ensure personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, is a suitable size, fit and reasonably comfortable for the worker who is to use or wear it.

Fit testing of tight-fitting respirators is required, using a validated protocol, to ensure that the specific make, model and size of respirator matches the wearer’s facial features and seals adequately to the wearer’s face. It is an essential step in the respirator selection process.

Not only is fit testing vital to respiratory safety, it is required by AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment:
- before a user first wears a tight-fitting respirator on a job;
- at least annually;
- whenever a different size, style, model or make of respirator is used;
- when any facial changes occur that could affect fit (such as weight fluctuations, facial piercings, dental work or other facial changes); and
- if other head-worn PPE is introduced or changed.

Fit testing is an element of the Respiratory Protection Program required for compliance with AS/NZS 1715:2009, for implementation where RPE is required to be worn.

Health and safety legislation and International and Australian Standards require that fit-test operators are properly trained and demonstrate proficiency in the fit-test method being used.

At a minimum, fit test operators should be appropriately trained, qualified and experienced in the following competencies:
- knowledge of the respirator used for the fit test;
- knowledge of the fit test method;
- ability to set up and monitor the function of the applicable test equipment;
- ability to conduct the fit test and evaluate the results; and
- ability to identify likely causes of fit test failure.