What is Fit Testing?
Fit Testing is performed to check the seal around tight-fitting respirators to ensure you are receiving the masks full intended protection. Quantitative fit testing is the most reliable objective method of fit testing and is considered to be the gold standard. If your mask does not seal properly, you may still be exposed to the very hazard that prompted the very use of your respirator.
Respirator Compliance – Can I Fail the Test?
Yes, it is possible to fail a Respiratory Fit Test.
A test may be stopped immediately if factors arise that prevent a proper seal or compromise the accuracy of the assessment.
Common reasons for failing a fit test include:
- The mask does not form an adequate seal due to incorrect size, model, or style.
- Eating or smoking within 30 minutes prior to testing can affect particle counts and lead to inaccurate readings.
- Facial hair prevents a proper seal from being achieved.
- Incorrect mask donning technique.
- Improper strap tension.
- The mask has deteriorated, lost integrity, or is damaged.
How Often Should I be Fit Tested?
According to the Australian and New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment, fit testing should be performed when respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is first issued, at least annually thereafter, and whenever a worker is provided with a different size, style, make, or model of mask.
While not mandated by law, annual fit testing is widely adopted as best practice to ensure worker health and safety.
Respirator Fit Testing – Medicals Australia
Medicals Australia offers respiratory fit testing for workplaces and individuals. If a clinic does not offer this service, we partner with accredited external providers who can perform the testing for you.
Keep Your Workforce Safe with Professional Respirator Fit Testing
At Medicals Australia, we understand the importance of ensuring that every worker is protected from hazardous airborne contaminants. To support this, we offer comprehensive respirator fit testing through our medical clinics or trusted external partners. This ensures each individual receives a properly fitted respirator, offering maximum protection against dusts, fumes, vapours, and other hazardous airborne particles.
Why Respirator Fit Testing Is Essential
A secure and correctly fitted respirator is vital for worker safety in industries such as healthcare, construction, manufacturing, mining, and emergency services. An ill-fitting respirator can result in leaks and harmful exposure, potentially leading to serious health issues.
Our service ensures:
- Correct sizing and model selection
- Effective facial seal and no leakage
- Compliance with safety regulations
- Increased confidence and comfort for the wearer
Respirator Models commonly tested
Our providers can test a wide range of respirator makes and models, including:
- Dräger
- 3M
- Moldex
- Sundström
- Trident
- MSA
- MaxiSafe
And additional brands commonly used in Australian workplaces
Advanced Testing Equipment
Testing is performed using the TSI PortaCount 8048 condensation nuclei counter ?, which provides accurate quantitative fit testing. This advanced technology measures microscopic particles to detect any leaks and confirm the integrity of the respirator seal.
Compliance with AS/NZS 1715:2009
All testing meets the requirements of AS/NZS 1715:2009, including guidelines for the selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment. This ensures your organisation remains compliant with Australian safety regulations.
Preparation Prior to Your Respirator Fit Test
To ensure the best possible results, all participants must follow these preparation instructions:
Facial Hair
- Participants must be clean shaven in all areas where the respirator seals against the face.
- Beards, stubble, or facial hair interfering with the seal will result in the test being rescheduled.
Health Considerations
Please inform us if you have:
- Recent facial surgery
- Major dental work or new braces – not a problem on the first appointment, but on a retest, may be useful information to understand if they did not achieve the same pass result; this could be a contributing factor
- Respiratory illness on the day of testing
These factors may affect fit test accuracy.
Bring Your Current Respirator
If you already use a respirator:
- Bring the exact model you use – stipulate the exact brand, make, and model – the message is the same, but what I noted is the correct wording
- Bring associated filters or cartridges
No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking 30 Minutes Before
To maintain accurate testing conditions:
- Avoid food, soft drinks, coffee, vaping, or smoking
- Water is permitted
- Remove chewing gum prior to testing
Avoid Makeup or Moisturiser
Ensure your face is clean and dry.
Heavy makeup, lotions, or oils can break the respirator seal.
Heavy makeup, lotions, or oils can break the respirator seal.
Wear Suitable Clothing
Avoid:
- High collars
- Hooded tops
- Scarves
Tie back long hair.
Bring Photo ID
Required for certification and record-keeping.
Testing Locations and On-Site Options
We can arrange respirator fit testing through our partnered clinic locations or directly at your workplace through an external provider.
- On-site testing is available for groups.This ensures minimal disruption to operations and supports timely compliance.
What Happens During the Fit Test
Each fit test takes approximately 15 minutes and includes:
- Verification of the respirator model and size – inspection maybe needed
- Training on the correct donning and doffing, filter change-outs, and fit checking
- A series of exercises to check the seal
- Quantitative evaluation using the PortaCount 8048
- A detailed written report of results
Book a Respirator Fit Test
We work with a range of industries including but not limited to tunneling, construction, mining and healthcare.
Protect your workforce and maintain regulatory compliance.
To book a respirator fit test or to request more information, contact Medicals Australia and we will coordinate the appropriate provider for your needs.
To book a respirator fit test or to request more information, contact Medicals Australia and we will coordinate the appropriate provider for your needs.
📞 Contact Medicals Australia United today on 07 2145 8599
Learn more:
CASE STUDY – 36 Hours to Departure: How Medicals Australia
Delivered Under Pressure Pre-Employment Medicals
Optimising the Pre-Employment Medical Process: What HR Leaders Need to Know
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