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Respirator Fit Testing
There are two types of respirator fit testing: Qualitative and Quantitative. We have technicians trained to administer both types. In some cases we can come to your site to do the testing.
Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test to access the adequacy of respirator fit that relies on the individual's response to the test agent. Qualitative Fit Test is a “subjective” test that depends on the client sensing an agent and accurately reporting it to the tester. This is done by exposing the subject to a harmless generated aerosol agent while he/she goes through seven (7) simple exercises that are designed to represent work activity. If the stimulant is not sensed during the exercise, we can assume a fit factor of 100 has been achieved. A fit factor of 100 means the air inside the mask is 100 times cleaner than the ambient air. This is the minimum allowed by OSHA. For Qualitative Fit Testing, NowCare uses an agent called Bitrex which is dependent on actually tasting the solution during the exercise. If tasted, this would indicate a leak, possibly caused by a bad fit or a problem with the respirator itself.
Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT) means an assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator. It is a totally objective and accurate test accomplished by actually counting the particles of contaminants in ambient air while simultaneously counting any particles that have leaked though into the mask. The ratio is then computed by comparing those numbers and determining the actual fit factor. If quantitative testing is conducted, OSHA requires a fit factor of 500 for all tight fitting full face respirators and 100 for tight fitting half face respirators.
Anyone using a respirator for occupational purposes must also have a medical clearance before the actual fit test. NowCare can provide this certification.
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