FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GETTING STARTED WITH FIT TESTING
First time getting fit tested? Still unsure about what is involved or what you need to do to prepare?
We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions below for your convenience. Please have a read through everything and if there is still anything that you’re unsure about, get in touch with us via email or give us a call. There are no stupid questions so don’t be afraid to ask.
Fit testing is performed to check and test the seal around tight fitting respirators to ensure when you’re wearing Respiratory Protective Equipment you’re receiving the mask’s full intended protection.
Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT) is a method to assess the effectiveness of the seal on your selected respirator. This type of testing uses instrumentation to numerically measure the leakage of air into the respirator through any gaps between the respirator and your face. This is the most reliable and most objective method of fit testing.
Having a valid (passed) fit test report is a requirement for compliance in different industries.
Put simply, it’s a way to test if a mask, whether it’s a disposable P2 or a reusable silicone P3 full face respirator, is the right size and fit for you. The fit test will give you the peace of mind that you’re adequately protected from airborne contaminants.
Think of it as trying on a shirt at the shops. Only this shirt keeps you safe while you’re working with hazardous materials.
Quantitative fit testing is to be performed prior to wearing a close fitting respirator, each time a new respirator is issued (e.g. changing of brands), whenever there is a changes in the characteristics or features in the facial structure of the wearer (e.g when experiencing weight loss or gain) and has to be conducted at least annually.
Under WHS law, clause 44 of WHS regulation (NSW) 2017 any PCBU providing PPE to workers must ensure that the PPE is:
- selected to minimise the risk to health and safety and is suitable for the nature of the work and the hazard associated with the work, and
- a suitable size and fit and reasonably comfortable for the worker who is to use or wear it.
A PCBU is also required to provide workers with information, training and instruction in the proper use and wearing of PPE and storage and maintenance.
Most major infrastructure projects will require a valid fit test report (they expire annually) to be submitted as a part of the induction process.
If you’re still not convinced – wouldn’t you want to know if the mask you’re wearing is doing a good job at keeping you safe?
At SafetyCo we use PortaCount® 8048 machines, utilising the new modified CNC protocols. If you’ve been previously fit tested on the older 8 step original CNC protocol you’ll realise the total fit test time has reduced from 7 minutes and 15 seconds to only 2 and a half minutes while maintaining equivalency in test results.
We generally advise that the entire duration that you’ll be with us is approximately 10-15 minutes per person on successful fit tests.
Selecting what mask to use can be a daunting task, especially with so many different products and options out there. If you’re new to this, rest assured – this is what we do every day, helping people just like you.
There are a number of factors to consider and we’re more than happy to talk you through it.
We can generally narrow down the options for you by learning more about what you do and what you’re needing the respirator for.
Here are some examples of questions we ask:
- What are the primary hazards you’re dealing with?
- Have you been fit tested before? If so, what brand and model of mask was used?
- What do you currently use?
- Where/what kind of environment do you work in?
- How long will the work go for?
Get some answers ready and give us a call. One of our friendly team will be more than happy to help.
Our recommendations will vary depending on your answers but ultimately the correct respirator for you is always going to be the one that is fit for purpose and fits you best. After all, that’s what a fit test is for.
Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 and the Australian & New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1715:2009 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment requires any user of tight fitting respirators, disposable or reusable, to undergo respiratory fit testing prior to starting work.
So if you currently wear or plan to wear a tight fitting mask for work – you’ll need a fit test.
A fit test shouldn’t be viewed as another hoop you have to jump through just to get to work. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is more likely to be worn when it fits well and is comfortable for the work that you’re doing. A mask that fits you well is more likely a mask that’s going to be more comfortable.
As per the Australian and New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 1715:2009 (Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment) respiratory fit testing should be conducted when the RPE is first issued, when the wearer is issued a new size, style, make or model and at least annually.
Therefore, even if you’ve been fit tested within the last 12 months but your circumstances have changed, for example, you’ve changed jobs, you will need a new fit test. Most companies will have new employees be fit tested in conjunction with their necessary medicals.
As quantitative fit testing is conducted on tight fitting respirators, the seal between the mask and your face is critical. This is why being CLEAN SHAVEN on the day of the test is essential. You can NOT have a beard, goatee or any form of facial hair that will interfere with the seal of your respirator.
If you can not shave due to medical or religious reasons a tight fit mask is not suitable for you. Please enquire about loose fitting solutions and Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR).
If a seal can not be achieved due to facial hair being present – you will FAIL THE TEST.
Do not smoke, vape or consume food within 30 minutes of your test. This will impact your test results and can cause a FAILED TEST.
Please bring the following:
- Appropriate PPE/an accurate representation of what you’ll be wearing at work to ensure compatibility with your selected RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) during the test. For example, if you normally wear glasses, they may not be suitable with certain brands of P3 full face respirators. You don’t want to find out when you show up for work.
- Medical clearance for respirator use.
- Valid ID. A successful fit test result will have a report issued with your legally recognised name and a validity of 12 months. If you have multiple names or have a preferred name, please let us know what will be recognised for any inductions/software.
Yes. Failing a fit test is definitely possible.
An instant fail can occur at any point due to various reasons, which would end the test prematurely.
Some of the reasons that could lead to a test failing include but are not limited to:
- The respirator/mask being tested doesn’t provide an adequate seal around your face due to being an incorrect size, an incompatible model or style for your specific face and shape.
- Smoking, vaping or eating within 30 minutes of the test being conducted can affect the test by potentially generating a false particle reading which might compromise the test and resulting in a fail.
- Not being clean shaven and thus a perfect seal can not be achieved.
- Donning the mask/respirator incorrectly.
- Improper strap tension.
- Your selected/provided mask has lost structural integrity or is damaged.
These are all common reasons that a failed fit test may occur. There may be fringe instances that could result in a failed test but if proper preparation has been done, we can minimise the potential of a failed test. Help us, help you by following all the steps outlined under “WHAT DO I NEED TO PREPARE FOR MY FIT TEST”
We are conveniently located at 1/103 Derby Street, Silverwater NSW.
We understand that you may have deadlines, can’t leave site or your shifts make it impossible to get to us. Our goal is the same as yours – get you to work and back home safely. That’s why we offer group mobile fit testing.
Submit an inquiry and we’ll do our best to accommodate. Please note that there may be a call out or travel fee. It’s best to speak with us first.
You can book in a fit test with SafetyCo right now.
Scroll up and select which option best suits you and your team.
A single quantitative fit test is $95 ex GST per person, per mask.
Student placement fit tests which require 2 masks to be tested, are offered at the discounted rate of $115 ex GST at our Silverwater location only.
On site fit testing may incur an additional fee, depending on the location.
Large group booking discounts are available on a case by case basis. Please contact us with your requirements.
We also offer a range of AS/NZS 1716:2012 compliant respirators for purchasing at trade prices.
AUDIOMETRIC TESTING FAQ
AUDIOMETRIC ASSESSMENTS FAQS
If you’re still unsure about what is involved or what you need to do to prepare, we have more information for you below.
Please have a read through everything and if there is still anything that you’re unsure about, get in touch with us via email or give us a call.
In 2022, the NSW Government conducted a review of Clause 58 of the WHS Regulation 2017. Clause 58 sets out audiometric testing requirements for employers in NSW. As part of the review, a public consultation forum was created to seek feedback on Clause 58. The results of the review and consultation supported audiometric testing of workers by their employer. Clause 58 – Audiometric testing will now become law, commencing 1 January 2024.
It’s recommended that workers in high-noise environments undergo hearing tests annually. This frequency helps monitor any changes in hearing ability and ensures that any hearing protection being used is effective.
A hearing test typically involves pure-tone audiometry assessment that tests your ability to hear different pitches and tones.
A standard hearing test usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific assessments required and the individual’s needs.
Avoid exposure to loud noises for at least 24 hours before the test, as this can temporarily affect your hearing. Bring any hearing aids or ear protection devices you use regularly, and inform the examiner of any medications or ear-related issues you have.
If the test indicates hearing loss, you will be recommended to see a GP or an audiologist for further examinations.
Yes, SafetyCo offers on-site hearing tests, bringing our equipment and certified professionals to your location. We would require multiple tests to be booked and confirmed prior to coming onsite along with other requirements needed to conduct the tests effectively. This may include a quiet room or office space away from noise with appropriate power and furniture.
Hearing protection must be worn by workers if hazardous noise cannot be controlled below the exposure standards using higher order controls. If the PCBU requires a worker to frequently use hearing protection (e.g., often or many times) throughout their work shift to minimise the risk of hearing loss from noise that exceeds the exposure standards, the PCBU must provide hearing tests to the worker.
- Early detection of noise induced hearing loss (NIHL)
- Educates workers about their hearing and the importance of protecting it
- Identifies the type of hearing loss, e.g., conductive, or sensorineural
- Assists in identifying non-noise related hearing problems
- Assists in limiting employer liability for hearing loss claims
RCS SILICA MONITORING FAQS
RCS MONITORING FAQS
RCS (Respirable Crystalline Silica) monitoring is crucial for maintaining workplace safety, particularly in industries where silica dust exposure is a concern. Effective RCS monitoring helps ensure compliance with health regulations, protects workers from potential respiratory issues, and minimizes long-term health risks.
This FAQ section will guide you through the importance of RCS monitoring, how it works, and best practices for safeguarding your workforce.
Health monitoring is critical for workers starting occupations exposed in crystalline silica processes to detect early signs of silicosis, a disease that may not show symptoms for years. Monitoring includes baseline respiratory exams, spirometry, and chest X-rays before work begins, and ongoing annual checks. Initial discussions should cover the health risks of silica exposure, symptom recognition, and previous exposures. Tests are conducted by registered medical practitioners, with specialist follow-ups if necessary, to track any changes in health over time.
Crystalline silica, primarily found in quartz, is a common mineral that can pose serious health risks when inhaled as fine dust, leading to lung diseases like silicosis. It’s prevalent in industries like construction, mining, and stone processing. High-risk activities include cutting, grinding, and blasting materials containing silica, especially composite stone. The model WHS Regulations classify crystalline silica as a restricted hazardous chemical, particularly in abrasive blasting. Proper safety measures are essential to minimize exposure and protect workers’ health.
Crystalline silica exposure primarily occurs through inhalation, targeting the lungs and leading to conditions like silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Other organs affected include kidneys and the immune system, potentially causing autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma and rheumatoid arthritis. Acute exposure can result in silicosis, with severe symptoms appearing quickly, while chronic exposure leads to long-term lung damage. Respirable quartz is classified as a carcinogen, increasing the risk of lung cancer in affected workers.
Yes. Sources of non-occupational exposure Silica is abundant in nature in multiple forms including quartz, cristobalite, tridymite and tripoli. Non-occupational exposure to silica dust can occur around industrial sites (quartz crushing, agate grinding, ceramics, use of slate pencils, mining and milling of sand stones, silica flour milling) or from naturally occurring sources such as desert dust or sand.
When workers are exposed to crystalline silica, annual health monitoring is crucial, including medical exams, respiratory tests, and chest X-rays. Workers with significant exposure or signs of health issues should undergo more frequent monitoring or advanced imaging. The PCBU must ensure control measures are reviewed, and workers showing signs of exposure may need to be removed from silica-related work. They can only return after medical clearance and remediation of the workplace environment. The workplace exposure limit is 0.05 mg/m³ for an eight-hour shift. This is the time weight average for exposure of silica dust.
At the end of work in a crystalline silica exposed occupation, a final medical examination is necessary, including medical history, physical exams, spirometry, and possibly another chest X-ray or CT scan. The imaging method should match the worker’s most recent tests. Workers with ongoing health issues from silica exposure should continue medical checkups. A detailed health monitoring report must be provided to the PCBU, covering test results, exposure risks, and recommendations for any necessary remedial measures or further medical counseling.
DRY FIRE SERVICES FAQS
FIRE SAFETY FAQS
The ILO chest xray, is a critical tool for occupational health professionals worldwide. We’re here to help you understand the importance of these chest xrays in the context of occupational health and safety.
If you’ve ever encountered silica dust in the workplace you most likely would have also heard about ILO chest xrays. To find out more check out of the FAQs below. If you still have questions about what xrays are about and how it effects you, please contact us directly. We’re more than happy to answer your queries to make sure you’re covered.
A dry fire suppression system is a type of fire protection system that uses dry chemical agents to suppress fires. It’s ideal for environments where water could damage equipment or materials, such as in server rooms or archives.
Fire extinguishers should be tested and tagged every 6 months with mining site being every 3 months due to it being higher risk.
The installation process includes assessing the specific needs of your location, choosing the appropriate type and number of extinguishers and blankets, and placing them in easily accessible areas while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards.
The type of fire extinguishers needed depends on the specific fire risks present. Common types include water, foam, dry powder, CO2, and wet chemical extinguishers. You may also need Lithium-Ion Battery fire extinguishers for specific areas. The quanitty and locations are also just as important as the appropriate type that is installed.
Regular inspections, maintenance, and training are essential to maintain compliance with fire safety regulations.
Before a new fire safety installation, conduct a thorough assessment of your premises to identify potential fire hazards and determine the best locations for fire safety equipment. Ensure that the areas where equipment will be installed are clean, accessible, and free of obstructions. Communicate with all relevant personnel about the installation schedule and any temporary disruptions that might occur. It’s also important to review and update your fire safety plan to incorporate the new equipment. We offer site assessments and expert guidance to help you prepare effectively for your new fire safety installation.
DRY FIRE SERVICES FAQS
ILO CHEST XRAY FAQS
The ILO chest xray, is a critical tool for occupational health professionals worldwide. We’re here to help you understand the importance of these chest xrays in the context of occupational health and safety.
If you’ve ever encountered silica dust in the workplace you most likely would have also heard about ILO chest xrays. To find out more check out of the FAQs below. If you still have questions about what xrays are about and how it effects you, please contact us directly. We’re more than happy to answer your queries to make sure you’re covered.
ILO stands for “International Labor Organisation”. This organisation systemises the description and recording of chest radiographic abnormalities, specifically focusing on issues in the chest provoked by the inhalation of dust. The internationally recognised classification provided is used internationally for screening and surveillance of people working in dusty occupations.
There are various occupations that require an ILO chest xray to comply with work health and safety codes. Different states in Australia may have different requirements. The ILO chest xrays are included in:
- Asbestos Health Monitoring Medicals
- NSW Order 43 Coal Mine Workers Medicals
- Queensland Coal Board Medicals
- Respirable Crystalline Silica Medicals
However, B reading is only a requirement for ILO chest x-rays completed under the Queensland Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme.
If you are potentially exposed to dust, asbestos, silica dust, or involved in mining, check with your PCBU to see if an ILO chest xray and health monitoring are required for you to be on site?
The frequency of ILO X-rays depends on the level of exposure and specific job requirements. Typically, they should be conducted annually or biannually for workers in high-risk environments. SafetyCo can provide guidance based on industry standards and regulations.
Like any regular xra, wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing any metal objects like jewelry or belts, as these can interfere with the xray images. Inform the technician if you are pregnant or have any specific medical conditions that may affect the procedure.
The duration of an ILO chest xray examination itself is quite brief, typically taking only a few minutes however, additional time may be needed for preparation. Overall, the entire process, from preparation to initial analysis, can take approximately 15 minutes.
The results are then sent away for the radiologist or trained reader to analyse and classify the images according to the ILO guidelines. This can take up to 10 working days.
If the ILO X-ray indicates signs of a lung disease, we will immediately recommend seeing a GP or specialist. We also provide the appropriate services to follow up with any adverse results. Because we are partnered with medical health professionals from Qualitas Occ Health, we are able to respond to any adverse effects quickly and efficiently with the proper procedures required to address the issues discovered.
OUR APPROACH TO PPE
We understand that PPE is at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls. Our goal is to make your work safer, not just sell you products. As a solutions first company you can trust that the PPE we DO sell directly to you, our team of experts have personally vetted, meets AS/NZS standards and has been rigorously field tested by our clients.
Whether it’s a cut D glove, a lithium-ion battery fire extinguisher, or a P3 full face respirator, every single item has been the right product for a specific purpose. If you know exactly what you need – great, shop away. If you don’t, reach out to us and we’ll guide you through.
