Regulations for Fit Test Providers
Employees are required to have a respirator fit tested prior to being allowed to use that make and model in the workplace. But who can perform this fit test? Do they require any specific training? Let's take a look at the OSHA regulations.
29 CFR 1910.134 says that:
"The employer shall establish a record of the qualitative or quantitative fit tests administered to an employee, including"
Appendix A Part 1 of the standard says:
"The employer shall conduct fit testing using the following procedures."
So the regulations do not specifically state the requirements for the person performing the fit test, but they do list the specific procedures that must be adhered to.
Check Out XO Safety Academy's Online Respirator Fit Test Course
Required Qualifications for Respirator Fit Test Providers
OSHA does not list specific training requirements for fit test providers. As long as the person you select to perform the fit test can follow the procedure properly and documents the results, you should be compliant. It would be wise to make sure the person you designate to perform the fit tests is familiar with the company respiratory protection program.
Respirator Fit Test Instructions
Most fit test kits will come with step by step instructions. Use the instructions to practice a few fit tests before completing the real evaluations.
Free Fit Test Instructional Video
Here is a great free video on respiratory protection and respirator fit testing.
Suggested Products
References
- OSHA Respirator Fit Test Information Page
- 29 CFR 1910.134 Appendix A - Respirator Fit Test Procedures
36 comments
jason grecco
I would like information on how to be capable of preforming fit test for others. thanks
Donnie lewis
I would like to become fit test certified at my hospital. Please let me know if to obtain this certification.
Shammy S
I like that you pointed out that the person that you will designate to do the fit test must follow the procedure properly and documents the results. This is something that industries that wear N95 and respirators must consider during RPE fit testing. I could imagine how crucial it is for masks to be properly fitted to users to ensure 100% safety while doing their job. http://fittick.com.au/respirator-fit-testing/
Isaias Rubio
I would like more information on how I could become a respirator fit test & medical evaluation administrator please. I work for an employer within the construction industry.
Thank you,
Isaias
Isaias Rubio
I would like more information on how I could become a respirator fit test & medical evaluation administrator please.
Dana H.
I would like to be certified for my company
Morris Jett
I would like to be certified to perform fit testing. Please send me information.
Rose karanja
I would like to be certified for my company,thanks
Ingrid Threet
Please send information as to how I can become certified to fit test n95 masks for my hospital. I am an infection control nurse, and would like to provide this service to my hospital’s employees. Need a training ASAP. You may also reach me at 360-481-1684. Thank you!
Rachelle Sereduik
I would like information on how I can get certified to fit test N 95 mask.
Carey Webb
I would like information on how I can get certified to fit test N 95 mask.
tracy davidson
I’d like to become certified for my company. Can you please send me information
Barry Finley
Can you please send me information so I can get a few of my firefighters certified to do n95 fit testing, thanks.
DANA JOHNSON
Please send me information on becoming certified to perform Fit tests for my employees. Thank you
keith snyder
Why are people asking for info to get fit test certified? This article is explaining that no certification is needed! Anyone can perform fit testing!
Tamika (Tami) Williams-Banks
Please send me more additional information on fit test certification I’m really interested
Debbie Bettencourt
Like to find out more about becoming certified.
Dawn Griffith
Please send me additional information on fit test certification. Thank you
Dawn Griffith
Please send me additional information on fit test certification. Thank you
Heather
Please send additional information regarding fit testing. Thank you.
Tammy WIley RN
I would like to become fit test certified, can you please email me the details? Thank You
LIN Ho
I’d like to become fit test certified can you please email me?
Doug Capazzi
Please send information for fit test certification. Thank you
Megan Davis
please send information for fit test training
Beth Purvis RN
I would like to become fit test certified. could you please email me the details. Thank you
Kyaina Bethel
I’d like to become fit test certified can you please email me?..
Marta Santiago
Can I learn to do my own fit test testing ?
wanda
I am interested in becoming fit-test certified for my Hawaii campus. please email and let me know how I proceed with this.
Evelyn Greenwood
I’d like to become certified in Fit Testing. Can you email me?
Shannon Trainer
I’d like to become certified in fit test training. Can you email me?!
Joyce Hargrave, RN, BSN
I am very interested in adding the N95 testing to my training center. Ready to make the necessary protocal to be in compliance. Please give me a call 6018079132
Iva Westbrooke
Was a Fit tester for over 10years. Want to recertify and complete a train the trainer course. Kindly send me the information to complete this course work. Thank you Iva Westbrooke westbrookeiva@gmail.com
Lazarus
what do we call a person who performs the respiratory fit testing? his or her Occupation
Dragan
I have Supervisor licenses for NYS, CT, NYC and NJ asbestos abatement. Can I Perform Qualitative Respirator Fit Tests Certificates for asbestos workers?
Jen G
It appears that the EM 385 manual is open to interpretation as well. Has anyone had any issues with OSHA requirements and EM 385 contradicting each other?
Cal G.
We ordered the Saccharin fit test kit and it was pretty easy to use. The rainbow passage seems silly.