Description
N-95 Respirator Fit Test
The Canadian Standards Association (Z94.9.1.6) and the Ontario’s Occupational Health & Safety Act (OSHA) state that every worker using a respirator to perform their job must be fit-tested, and employers are required to protect them from potentially hazardous airborne particles including biological or chemical agents. If you’re required to wear an N95 filtering facepiece mask as part of your job, you MUST be fit-tested with the proper make, model and size provided by your employer before it’s first use.
A respirator fit test consists of several exercises designed to ensure the respirator/face seal during which the participant puts on the respirator to be tested.
Paramount Safety Consulting Inc. will provide a Qualitative Respirator Fit-Testing (QLFT), an OSHA approved procedure that relies on the sensory (taste, irritation, smell) response to a particular test agent in order to detect leakage into the respirator. Paramount Safety Consulting Inc uses Bitrix TM (bitter) in order to achieve the test results.
Fit Testing Frequency
Respirator fit testing must be done prior to using a mask on the job. The fit test is valid for two years from date of issue or until there are any noticeable changes to the facial features of the user. This may include major dental work, facial scarring, a visible change in weight or facial surgery. The fit test is only valid for the particular make, model, and size of the respirator tested.
N95 & KN95 Fit Test Sequence:
- Properly fit the mask to the participant.
- Ensure the bridge piece is secured to the contour of the participants facial features.
- Test Solution is then sprayed in the Test hood donned by the participant.
- A series of exercises is completed to ensure the fit test is successful.
Records of Training:
1. Documented participation and verifying objectives
2. Electronic copy of participant training records sent to the employer
Note* Re Certification will be required if there is any change in physical attributes and mask model, brand, size changes.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON N95 MASKS: Employers are responsible to provide their employees with NIOSH Approved N95 masks that protect them while on the job. As N95 masks are designed for one-time use, employers should have adequate inventory for the specific make, model and size(s) available for the employee to readily access. An N95 fit test is required to ensure the the employer supplied N95 mask can PASS for a safe seal to the face.
WHERE TO BUY? We have full stock of respirators including cartridges.
WHO WE PROVIDE FIT-TESTING TO:
- Construction
- Industrial
- Municipalities & government agencies
- Long Term Healthcare sector
- Education sector
Its as simple as “Supply your own mask” or “We can Supply For You”