N95 Respirator Fit Testing Services

What is an N95 Fit Test?

An N95 fit test provides peace of mind that respirators seal properly to a wearer’s face. This precise fit is crucial to prevent harmful particles from seeping in around the mask’s edges.

An N95 fit test is not the same as an N95 fit check. More informally, an N95 fit check is an employee’s daily self-assessment each time they wear the respirator.

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 requires N95 fit testing for any worker who wears an N95 mask in an occupational setting.

Who Needs an N95 Fit Test?

People who work in various workplaces often wear N95 respirators on the job. Essentially, anyone who is required to wear a respirator at work is required to have an N95 fit test.

One example is healthcare workers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Construction and manufacturing employees exposed to dust, silica, and chemicals wear N95 masks.

You may also wear one while handling infectious materials as a researcher in a lab or a waste management employee who handles biohazards and toxins. Students and professionals may require an N95 fit test during clinical rotations or for access to specialized sites.

OSHA Requirements for N95 Fit Testing

Under OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134), N95 fit testing is required before the initial use of the respirator and annually to confirm its ongoing quality. Repeat N95 fit tests may be required after an employee receives a respirator of a different size or model.

An employee may need to take a new N95 fit test if their face shape changes significantly, such as after a substantial weight gain or loss, facial scarring, or dental surgery. Complying with this OSHA standard not only protects your staff but also helps you avoid costly fines and liability issues.

Types of N95 Fit Tests We Offer

Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT)

One type of N95 respirator fit test is the qualitative fit test, which relies on the wearer’s ability to observe and detect a test agent, such as a bitter or sweet taste, to assess the fit.

This is a simple, quick, and widely accepted N95 fit test conducted while a person is moving and performing breathing exercises. It’s ideal for low to moderate-risk work environments.

Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT)

The second type of N95 fit testing involves the quantitative fit test, which utilizes specialized equipment to measure air leakage into a respirator. You’ll get precise and objective results with a numerical fit factor result.

Specific high-risk industries require the QNFT when maximum protection is essential. The QNFT is most commonly used for full-face respirators, but it is also available for an N95 fitting test near you.

What to Expect During an N95 Fit Test

When you schedule a professional N95 fit test with Postured Ergonomics, here’s what you can expect:

• Instruction on proper respiratory donning
• A medical clearance review, as applicable
• Testing with relevant exercises, such as normal and deep breathing, head movements, and talking
• Seal assessment with qualitative or quantitative testing

Please note that participants in N95 respirator fit tests must be clean-shaven where their masks seal to their faces to ensure accurate results. At Postured Ergonomics, we operate efficiently through N95 fit test protocols, completing our assessments while minimizing downtime and ensuring your business’s compliance.

Benefits of Professional N95 Fit Testing

N95 fit testing offers many benefits, including the following:

• Protect your employees’ health
• Fewer exposure risks of hazardous materials
• Instill employees’ confidence in the PPE you provide
• Confidence with OSHA compliance
• A strong workplace safety culture

Why Choose Postured Ergonomics for N95 Fit Testing?

Businesses choose Postured Ergonomics for their N95 fit testing needs because we specialize in OSHA-compliant N95 fit testing across various industries.

Our experienced professionals excel in ensuring the best respiratory protection, with qualitative and quantitative options available for individuals and groups. Our hands-on training and ongoing compliance support are trusted by employers across various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and more.