Respirator Fit Testing
When wearing Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) having the correct type and fit is crucial.
It is a requirement under AS/NZS 1715:2009 “Use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices” that all wearers of face masks undergo annual fit testing. The purpose of the test is to verify that each wearer has a mask that provides an effective seal against contaminants in the atmosphere.
AT ICS we offer Quantitative testing which is the preferred and most accurate method of respirator fit testing.
Quantitative fit testing utilises a ‘PortaCount’ machine. The effectiveness of the masks seal is measured while the wearer undertakes a series of movements, which is designed to simulate actual working conditions. The PortaCount measures the amount of leakage into the mask and provides a numerical measure. A good fit ensures the worker will get maximum protection from the respirator.
Each appointment for a quantitative fit test takes about half an hour and this includes educating the user on how to use, donning and doffing of respirator and the use, care and maintenance of the device, filter schedule changes, the importance of a cleanshaven face to achieve an optimal seal.
For fit-testing to be undertaken, employees must be clean shaven (wet or electric razor) – within the last 8 hours – and should not have eaten, drunk, smoked, vaped or chewed gum in the 30 minutes prior to testing.
Our Fit testers are certified as competent pursuant to NZOHS training programs or training towards those qualifications under supervision of a Comm2fit qualified tester.
We are able to test:
Half-mask respirator
Full-face respirator
Disposable filtering-facepiece fit testing for Series 100/99/95/P1/P2/P3 masks (All Brands)
SCBA respirator
Gas mask respirator
