General Tips for Fit Testing

Remember that tight-fitting respirators will not work if they do not have a tight seal between the facepiece and the user's face. Therefore, the following may alter respiratory protection fit:

• Beards or other facial hair
• The absence of dentures (if normally worn)
• Facial deformities
• Jewelry

Employers must also keep in mind that eyeglasses may make it difficult for employees to wear certain respirators. There are special mounts that will hold glasses in place while the employee wears a full facepiece; a qualified individual must ensure the proper fit of these additional pieces. He or she must look for proper fit, good vision, user comfort, and a proper seal.

Before beginning a fit test, the employer must explain the fit test to the employee. This includes a description of the fit test, an explanation of the employee's responsibilities, and a description of the test exercises that the employee will perform.

Please note that if the employee must wear any safety equipment during their actual job duties, they must don this equipment during the fit test.

To learn more about Respiratory Protection visit our Respiratory Protection Online Training web page.