For mandatory use, fit testing is required. It is also recommended for voluntary use. OSHA regulations require that employers ensure that employees using tight-fitting respirators are fit tested before they use them. This is true regardless of whether a different style, make, or size respirator is being used. It is also recommended that respirator users be tested annually. Fit testing should include proper placement of the chin, adequate strap tension; fit across the nose bridge; correct size to span distance between nose and chin; tendency for slippage; and self-observation with a mirror to assess fit and position.

Here are some key steps OSHA recommends to ensure a proper fit test. To ensure that a fit test is performed in accordance with safety regulations, consult an industrial hygienist or safety expert before you do it.

1. Discuss with the employee how to fit a respirator on their face. Adjust the strap tension, adjust the position and make sure it fits properly.

2. After trying a variety of sizes and models, ask the employee to choose the best fit respirator.

3. Ask the employee to bring each facepiece to your face. If they are not acceptable, ask them to remove them. In case the first one is not acceptable, note the better-fitting facepieces.

4. To assess comfort, have the employee wear the most comfortable mask for at least five minutes. Comfort should be assessed by the following factors: position on the nose and eye protection, space for talking, and position on the cheeks and face.

5. The employee should conduct a standard user seal test. Before performing the seal check, instruct the employee to place the mask on the head by slowly moving it from one side to the other while taking deep deep breaths. If the employee fails to pass the user seal test, you can choose another facepiece and retest.

6. If there is hair growth between your skin and the sealing surface of the facepiece, you should not perform the test. You must remove any apparel that is causing problems with the fit. To get more additional information visit https://n95medicalsupplies.com/

7. An employee who has difficulty breathing should be referred by a doctor or licensed health care professional to determine if a respirator can be used to perform his or her duties.

8. If the employee finds the fit of their respirator to be unacceptable, they should be offered the chance to choose a different respirator.

9. Perform the fit test while the employee is wearing any applicable safety equipment that may be worn during actual respirator use which could interfere with respirator fit.

A number of exercises are required to pass a fit test. These include: breathing normally, deep breathing, turning your head sideways, moving your head up and down, talking, and breathing normally. These exercises will allow employees to assess their ability to adapt to the various situations they will be working in.

OSHA safety regulations cover many areas, including respiratory protection. Fit tests for respirators can be performed under the supervision of qualified experts to help companies implement and manage an effective safety program.