Fit Testing Service For Face Masks

At DeconSafe Solutions, we know that proper respiratory protection is critical in hazardous environments. Our professional free fit testing services on our respirators ensure the highest level of protection. The combination of respirators and coveralls provides full-body protection for workers being exposed to airborne contaminants such as asbestos, dust, fumes and chemicals.

What is Fit Testing?

Fit testing is a mandatory process that verifies whether a respirator forms an adequate seal on the wearer’s face. Most advanced respirators can’t provide adequate protection if it does not fit properly.

Key Factors that Affect the Fitting of the Mask

  • Facial structure and shape
  • Facial hair
  • Incorrect donning technique

Fit testing is required under Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1715) and other international safety guidelines to ensure that the selected respirator provides the intended level of protection for workers.

Why is Fit Testing Important?

Fit testing is crucial when testing the importance of an air filtration system, as it ensures

  • Regulatory Compliance: Fit testing is a legal requirement in many industries, including asbestos removal, construction, and healthcare.
  • Worker Safety: A poor-fitting respirator allows harmful particles to enter, putting workers at risk.
  • Performance Assurance: Ensures the selected respirator works as intended in real work conditions.
  • Avoid Costly Failures: Prevents exposure incidents, fines, and downtime caused by improper protection.

Types of Fit Testing We Offer

We provide two industry-approved fit testing methods to ensure your respirators offer maximum protection. Each method is designed to comply with Australian Standards and suit different types of respiratory protective equipment.

Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT)

In Qualitative Fit Testing, a test agent (such as Bitrex or saccharin) is used to check if the wearer can taste or smell it. It is best suited for negative pressure respirators where a fit factor of 100 or less is required.

Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT)

In Quantitative Fit Testing, Advanced instruments like TSI PortaCount are used to measure the exact leakage into the respirator, providing a numerical fit factor. It is recommended for full-face respirators and environments with high-risk contaminants.

How Often Should Fit Testing Be Done?

Fit testing is not a one-off requirement; it must be repeated regularly to ensure effective protection against asbestos fibres, dusts, fumes, and chemicals. According to HSE, NIOSH, and Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1715), the following guidelines must apply:

  • Before first use of a new respirator model or size to confirm a proper seal.
  • At least once every 12 months to ensure the respirator continues to fit correctly.
  • Whenever there is a change in facial features, such as significant weight gain or loss, dental surgery, facial scars, or growth of facial hair.

Products We Provide Fit Testing For

We carry out comprehensive qualitative and quantitative fit testing for a wide range of respiratory equipment, including Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) and 3M Respirators. These include:

Why Choose DeconSafe Solutions for Fit Testing?

  • Certified Technicians trained in accordance with industry standards
  • State-of-the-art equipment, like quantitative fit test machines, for utmost accuracy
  • On-site or Off-site Testing for maximum convenience
  • Compliant with AS/NZS 1715 & international standards

Protect your team and stay compliant with industry regulations. Contact us, your trusted partner in asbestos and respiratory safety, to schedule your fit testing service today.

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