756 Respiratory Protection

Fit Testing

Fit testing also reinforces respirator training by having wearers review the proper methods of donning and wearing the respirator. Employees must be medically evaluated and found eligible to wear the respirator selected for their use prior to fit testing.

Fit testing is required for all negative or positive pressure tight-fitting facepiece respirators using the protocols detailed in 1910.134, Appendix A. The OSHA respiratory protection standard requires fit testing be performed:

• before an employee first starts wearing a respirator in the work environment,
• whenever a different respirator facepiece is used, and
• at least annually thereafter.

Demonstrating and Selecting a Respirator Model

Prior to the actual fit test, the employee should:

• wear the respirator to be tested for at least five minutes prior to the start of the test;
• be given a description of the fit test and the exercises he or she will perform during the test;
• be shown how to put on a respirator, position it on the face, set strap tension, and determine an acceptable fit;
• be allowed to choose a respirator from a sufficient number of models and sizes so the employee can find an acceptable and correctly fitting respirator. When choosing the respirator, the employee should take into account;
• the position of the mask on the face, nose, and cheeks;
• room for eye protection; and
• room to talk -- a user seal check must be conducted.
• be fit tested for each respirator that will be assigned.

Retesting

Retesting is required whenever there are changes in an employee's physical condition that could affect the respirators fit. Such conditions include, but are not limited to:

• facial scarring,
• dental changes (e.g., wearing new dentures),
• cosmetic surgery, or
• an obvious change in body weight.

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