Respiratory Fit Testing

Under OSHA 1910.134 (Respiratory Protection), fit testing must be performed initially before the employee is required to wear the respirator in the workplace and must be repeated at least annually. OSHA also states that Fit testing must also be conducted whenever respirator design or facial changes occur that could affect the proper fit of the respirator. Examples of conditions which would require additional fit testing of an employee include (but are not limited to) the use of a different size or make of respirator, weight loss, cosmetic surgery, facial scarring, the installation of dentures or absence of dentures that are normally worn by the individual. We offer two different types of fit testing at J.A.S Training to help keep you compliant with Local, State, and Federal guidelines for respiratory protection.

Qualitative Fit Testing: 

Qualitative fit testing is a pass/fail method used on half-masks that relies on senses - such as taste and smell. We will use a combination of Bitrex (Bitter Smell) or Saccharin (Sweet tastes in mouth) to test if you have a properly sealed mask.

Quantitative Fit Testing:

Workplace Quantitative fit testing is the process to measure the precise amount of leakage into any tight-fitting facepieces. Instead of relying on bitter tasting chemicals and your senses, the test is performed by a machine calculating the measurements.

**Medical Approval**

All medical approvals must be completed prior to fit testing being performed. Individuals being tested SHALL BE CLEAN SHAVEN and avoid eating or drinking upwards of (30) Thirty minutes prior to being tested.