Eastern CPR OSHA Standards N95 Respirator Fit Testing
This program is designed for employees who have been medically cleared to wear a respirator. Fit testing is mandatory for all tight-fitting respirators and the N95 Fit Test should be conducted before the employee uses the respirator on the job.
It is important that employees complete the test using the same make, model, and size of the respirator they will wear on the job, along with any other required equipment (e.g., glasses).
NOTE: We provide you with a free N95 mask for fit testing, which you also get to keep. However, if you have a specific N95 mask that you intend to use at your job, bring it with you.
How Often Should I Get Fit Tested?
OSHA mandates qualitative or quantitative fit testing before a user wears a mandatory respirator on the job, and it must be conducted at least annually. Additionally, fit tests should be performed:
- Whenever a different size, style, model, or make of respirator is used.
- When any facial changes occur that could affect fit, such as significant weight fluctuation or dental work.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Employees should be clean-shaven for the test. Religious adaptations, such as for Sikh individuals, are also considered. Let us know before your class, if you are unable to shave and we will discuss the options with you.
How is the Fit testing done?
We use the 3M fit testing package for respirator fit testing.
This Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT) for N95 is a pass/fail test that relies on the user’s sensory response to one of four OSHA-accepted test agents:
- Isoamyl acetate (banana smell) – for testing respirators with organic vapor cartridges.
- Saccharin (sweet taste) – for testing respirators with any class of particulate filters.
- Bitrex® (bitter taste) – for testing respirators with any class of particulate filters.
- Irritant smoke (involuntary cough reflex) – for testing respirators with level 100 particulate filters.
Each QLFT method includes seven exercises performed for 1 minute each:
- Normal breathing
- Deep breathing
- Moving head side to side
- Moving head up and down
- Bending over (or jogging in place if fit test unit doesn’t permit bending at the waist)
- Talking
- Normal breathing again
Important note before your Fit Test
Do not eat, drink, or chew gum for 15 minutes prior to the exam.
How to schedule your Fit Testing
To schedule your respirator fit testing, select one of the dates/times below or give us a call at 347-961-1341.
For groups or agencies: If you prefer, we can come to your location to provide on-site testing for your employees.
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(347) 961-1341
