QUANTITATIVE
FIT TESTING
BREATHE BETTER with safetyco
There are countless hazardous materials present in our workplaces and we unknowingly inhale the vapours, particles and fumes produced by these materials every day. It is imperative that all workplaces understand the importance of respiratory health and safety.
Respirators and masks are used to protect us from inhaling these hazardous materials and prevent any physical complications that may occur. However, respirators and masks are only made effective when the seal between wearer and mask is tight.
To achieve the protection needed, respirators require fit testing when first issued to the wearer and continue to be retested annually, unless there are factors in which the mask needs to be retested earlier. Some of these factors may include the wearer being issued a new respirator, the respirator has been in service for a period of 12 months, the wearer has experienced excessive weight gain or loss, or the wearer has undergone major dental work.
In the event of a successful pass test, a certificate will be issued and emailed to the wearer and/or their company.
PREPARING FOR YOUR FIT TEST
Fit testing is performed to check the seal around tight fitting respirators to ensure you are utilising your Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) in an optimal manner and receiving the selected mask’s full intended protection. Failing a fit test is possible but with proper preparation, we can minimise that possibility from occurring.
A proper seal, and therefore a successful fit test, can only be achieved on workers that are clean shaven. If there is any obstruction between the respirator and face, including a small amount of stubble can result in a fit test failing. It’s important to note that whenever wearing tight fitting RPE, it’s important to maintain a clean shave.
If you are unable to shave a tight fit respirator is not suitable for you. A Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) with a loose fitting head top will be your solution. If this is applicable to you, please get in touch with us prior to your appointment.
Consumption of food, tobacco and nicotine products such as cigarettes and vapes can not occur within 30 minutes prior to your test.
If you are getting fit tested and working in an environment where PPE is a requirement, please ensure that it is compatible with your RPE during the test.
Please familiarise yourself with Facial Hair Restrictions and the Principles of Fit Checking below.
BREATHE BETTER
QUANTITATIVE
FIT TESTING
Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT) is a facial fit test for tight fitting respirators and is required to ensure compliance with AS/NZS 1715:2009. QNFT detects the existence of any leakage as well as the amount of leakage that is occurring in the tested respirator. A Portacount machine is used and attached to the respirator through a tube and adaptor to achieve the results of the test.
Most tight fit respirators, P3 full face and P2 half face respirators are preferred options for testing. Most major brands including 3M, Trident, Sundström, STS Shigematsu, JSP, MaxiGuard as well as disposable P2 options are able to be tested.
Not all tight fit masks are able to be tested just as not every respirator is suitable for every work site. If you’re not sure – please reach out to our team.
MOBILE/ON-SITE
FIT TESTING
Fit testing is required before a user wears a respirator on a job and is to be assessed annually. At SafetyCo we understand that you may have deadlines, can’t leave the work site or your shifts make it impossible for you to reach our convenient Silverwater location during our opening hours.
It’s a common request for us to come out to worksites and we’re more than happy to assist. There is a common misconception that the PortaCount machine (fit testing machine) requires a completely clean and sterile room – this is not the case. Ideal spaces are smaller rooms such as a crib room where it’s easier to control the ambient particle count but we are also able to fit test from our vehicles.
We work with you to come up with a plan to minimise the disruption to your workers and their work day. Please get in touch and we’ll accommodate as best as we can.
STUDENT PLACEMENT FIT TESTING
Students attending placement in certain clinical settings (determined by the health service) will be required to be fit tested for a P2/N95 respirator. It’s important to ensure health workers and students are able to work safely, and are protected against exposure to respiratory pathogens. PPE and the correct selection of PPE, plays an important role in minimising that risk whilst working.
In accordance with the Clinical Excellence Commission of NSW, health workers are to be successfully fit tested to two disposable respirators. The list of respirators are dynamic and may require local updating in terms of Respirator Fit Testing Algorithm. As there are many suitable disposable P2 products, you can be assured that we only fit test respirators that NSW Health is able to procure.
At SafetyCo we offer a discounted student rate for these services at our convenient Silverwater location.
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.
GET WORK READY
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.
BOOK YOUR FIT TEST
EXPRESS BOOKING
Respiratory Fit Test
Quantitative Fit Test | Single
$
95
ex GST
-
Includes Disposable P2
AS/NZS 1716:2012 Mask -
Fit Checking Training
-
Maintenance & Care Training
For Reusable Respirators -
Fit Test Report (PDF Format)
Student Placement
2x Respirator Fit Test | Student Discount
$
115
ex GST
-
Includes 2x Disposable
AS/NZS 1716:2012 P2 Masks
With ARTG Numbers -
Fit Checking Training
-
2x Fit Test Reports
(PDF Format)
Hearing Test
Audiometric Assessment | Single
$
75
ex GST
-
Testing In Accordance
With AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 -
Audiometric Case
History -
Audiometric Test Report
(PDF Format)
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