Section 44 of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 identifies the requirement for the PCBU to ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) is a suitable size, fit and reasonably comfortable for the worker who is to use or wear it. Everyone’s face is a different size and shape so the only way to know the mask works is to test it.

We offer two methods to check if a respirator fits correctly – qualitative (taste-based) and quantitative (machine-based). Both assess the seal of the mask and are conducted in accordance with AS/NZS 1715-2009 but work in different ways (quantitative is suitable for all respirator types, however, qualitative is only suitable to test half-face disposable and reusable respirators).

Qualitative Face Fit Test (half-face disposable and reusable respirators only)

Our qualitative respirator face fit test is a two-step process. Firstly, a sensitivity pre-check will be conducted to see if the candidate can taste the fit-test agent (a harmless sweet or bitter vapour) before the actual fit-test begins. A fit test will then be conducted to determine if the respirator fits properly. Below is a brief description of the process:

• The worker puts on the respirator and performs a user fit-check.
• A hood is placed over their head and a harmless tasting agent (bitter or sweet) is sprayed inside the hood.
• The worker performs a series of breathing exercises and movements (talking, turning head, bending) – this step takes around six minutes.
• If the worker does not detect the tasting agent the respirator passes the test.
• If the worker does detect the tasting agent the respirator fails the fit-test (the worker may need to select an alternative respirator that better fits their face shape).

Quantitative Face Fit Test (all respirator types)

Our quantitative respirator face fit test is suitable for all respirators (disposable and reusable half face, as well as full face) and is machine based. Below is a brief description of the process: 

• The respirator is fitted with a small sampling probe and the worker is asked to put on the respirator and perform a user fit-check.
• The machine measures particles inside and outside the mask.
• The worker performs a series of movements (talking, turning head, bending) – this step takes a few minutes.
• The system calculates a fit factor (how well the mask seals), with a pass/fail result.

Whether we are conducting a qualitative or quantitative face fit test, it is important that workers bring the following items to this appointment:

• The respirator to be fit tested (the face fit test result is specific only to the make, model, type and style that we test on the day and we must be able to gather this information from the mask and/or packaging).  
• Prescription glasses (if applicable) and any PPE that will be worn with the mask (such as safety glasses, hard hats and hearing protection) – as they can compete for space on head/face, the test must be conducted with glasses/other PPE that will be worn to ensure it does not interfere. 
• Identification (such as drivers licence).

Please note that facial hair prevents an adequate seal from being achieved and workers who undergo fit-testing, or are required to wear tight-fitting respirators during work, must be:

• Clean-shaven; or
• Have no facial hair in the area where the respirator seals to the face.

Onsite Testing will conduct the face-fit test with your worker and provide a Fit Test Record detailing the outcome of the test. Our fit test service includes:

• Instruction on how to inspect, fit, use and maintain the face fit mask.
• Instruction on worker responsibility to conduct a fit-check on every occasion that the respirator is positioned on the face.
• Instruction on personal requirements when wearing face fit mask (clean shaven on all areas where respirator makes contact with face, no makeup where respirator makes contact with face, remove facial jewelry that could interfere with seal).
• Fit test, including check on stability of face fit mask.

Re-testing is required:

• At least annually; and
• When a different size, style, model or make of respirator is used; and
• Following significant facial changes (such as weight fluctuation, dental work, facial injury); and
• When new prescription eyewear or other personal protective equipment (PPE) may affect positioning or seal of respirator.

• Before a respirator is selected or used for the first time; and
• At least once per year to ensure it continues to fit adequately; and
• Whenever there is a change in the wearer’s facial characteristics or features which may affect the facial seal (including large weight loss or gain).

Yes, you are required to have them fit-tested:

• Before the type of disposable respirator is selected or used for the first time;
• At least once per year to ensure that type of disposable respirator continues to fit adequately;
• Whenever there is a change in the wearer’s facial characteristics or features which may affect the facial seal (including large weight loss or gain).

Fit-testing can be carried out by a competent person. Onsite Testing have trained and competent personnel to carry out qualitative and quantitative respirator fit testing.

A fit-test is a test by a competent person to check if any air leaks into the respirator through gaps in the seal between the respirator facepiece and the user’s face.

• A fit-check is a quick check by the user to ensure the respirator, that has already been fit-tested, has been properly positioned on the face and there is a good seal between the respirator and face.
• Fit-checks do not replace the need for a fit-test.

• Your workplace issued respirator requiring fit-testing; 
• Any other required PPE or prescription glasses you normally wear when wearing a respirator in the workplace; and
• Identification (such as your Drivers Licence).

Yes, however long hair must be tied back so that it does not become tangled in the straps of the respirator and hairstyles must not interfere with the proper sealing of the respirator.

Yes, you must be clean shaven in all areas where the respirator seals to the face. Stubble from one day will prevent you from being able to complete the fit-test. Facial hair prevents an adequate seal from being achieved. 

Yes, providing the jewellery does not interfere with the proper sealing of the respirator. If the jewellery interferes with the proper sealing of the respirator you will need to remove it.

No, your face must be free from makeup.

You should not eat, drink (other than water) or chew gum for at least 30 minutes before the fit-test.

If you have a chronic lung or heart conditions including emphysema, asthma, heart disease, anaemia, or epileptic seizures, you will need to seek advice from your medical practitioner before using a respirator.

The severity of an individual’s claustrophobia varies. If undertaking a qualitative face fit test, you will need to be able to calmly tolerate wearing a respirator while having a large clear hood placed over your head multiple times for as long as 6 to 7 minutes. The image below is typical of the hoods used during the qualitative fit-test.

Yes, Onsite Testing conducts quantitative face fit tests suitable for full-face respirators in accordance with AS/NZS 1715:2009.