Respirator Fit Testing

The latest Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1715:2009 - Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protection, now states that: "Employers shall ensure a suitable fit test is carried out for all users of Respiratory Protective Equipment with a close fitting face piece at least annually or whenever there is a change in the wearer's facial characteristics. This means that respirator fit testing in the workplace is now madatory.

There are two types of Facial Fit Testing - Qualitative and Quantitative.

A Qualitative fit test checks for fit of a respirator by means of using a test substance which can be smelled or tasted. A person wearing a respirator with appropriate cartridges fitted has a hood placed over their head and the test agent is then sprayed into the hood. The person being tested indicated whether they can detect the test agent to achieve a pass or fail result.

A Quantitative fit test is not subjective and eliminates human variables. Quantitative respirator fit testing uses the TSI PortaCount to measure exact leakage into the respirator and provides users with a fit test rating. All fit testing results are documented and printed using the PortaCount FitPlus Software.

Alliance Safety Equipment Pty Ltd offers a comprehensive quantitative respirator fit testing service and respirator user training. Out technicians will review how to correctly don, inspect and adjust your respirator. The technician will also explain the purpose of the test, how the equipment works and what is expected of the test subject during the testing procedure. During the fit testing process, the employee performs exercises that simulate workplace movements. A complete fit test takes approximately 15 minutes.

Our goal when providing a fit testing service is not merely to comply with the regulations but to ensure the respiratory protection supplied to your employees truly fits and is being worn properly. The PortaCount provides us with a fit test rating and the required printed and electronic documentation. We can also print test results onto ID cards.

Please ask us for a quotation to provide our quantitative respirator fit testing service or alternatively, consider our Portacount hire option.