RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING

Our technicians perform quantitative respirator fit testing which meets the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) (CAN/CSA-Z94.4-18) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) (29 CFR 1910.134 and 29 CFR 1926.103) guidelines for testing. We use TSI PortaCount® respirator fit testing systems for quantitative respirator fitting. These systems can precisely identify particle disparity between the inside and outside of almost any tight fitting respirator.

The Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulations specify that employees must wear National Institute for Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators in accordance with CSA guidelines. Health surveillance is required prior to first use of a respirator, followed by ongoing periodic monitoring which is recommended annually but required at least bi-annually.

Respirator fit testing ensures that the use of a respirator meets the individual needs of a worker who is using it. By performing a respirator fit test, we ensure that your workers understand how to use their respirator properly and we confirm that their respirator fit maintains the integrity for which the respirator was designed.

Each participant will follow an approximate 10 minute long protocol in order to test their respirator in a variety of situations and positions that simulate the work environment. Once the test is complete, the employee is offered a report with the Fit Factor for their respirator and a pass or fail rating for that test. A failed test may mean that a different respirator size, brand, or adjustments may need to be considered prior to re-testing with that individual. (Note: facial hair plays a large role in failed tests).

We can provide respirator fit testing for almost any tight fitting respirator that your company may use. However, there may be additional set-up fees for special adapters that may be required.