Are Respirator Fit Tests Required? YES,

Are Respirator Fit Tests Required

Table of Contents

Are Respirator Fit Tests Required? YES, they are required, it's the law. Every government workplace safety legislation in all provinces across Canada state that, Respirators must be fit tested if a worker is required to wear one. The standard for this is CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02. Three examples of the laws are listed below. WorkSafe BC, WCB Alberta, and the Canadian Standards Association

WorkSafe BC

WorkSafe BC Regulation 8.40 states in (1) "A respirator which requires an effective seal with the face for proper functioning must not be issued to a worker unless a fit test demonstrates that the Respirator facepiece forms an effective seal with the wearer's face.".

WCB Alberta

In Alberta, the WCB states in Part 18 section 250(1) "An employer must ensure that respiratory protective equipment that depends on an effective facial seal for its safe use is correctly fit tested and tested in accordance with CSA Standard Z94.4‑02"

Canadian Standards Association

Canadian Standards Association procedures for conducting a fit test must be strictly adhered to as defined in the CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02 Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators. Without knowing if you have a perfect seal, harmful and or deadly substances can find their way into your body. In addition, a self-check should be conducted prior to every shift.

When should I get Fit Tested?

WorkSafe BC Regulation 8.40

When should I get Fit Tested? Most if not all jurisdictions are in agreement. Annually (every 12 months) is the duration at a minimum. In addition, there are several other reasons listed below.

(2.1)(a) Before Initial Use of a Respirator

A fit test must be carried out before you ever donn one (put it on) for the first time. If you have never used a Respirator, the Certified Fit Tester will take you through the entire required procedure. You should be instructed on Inspecting your Respirator for Damage, Care, Maintenance, and Storage. More so, you'll be advised as to the hazards and harmful nature of the materials or substance involved with your task.

(2.1)(b) At Least Once a Year

At the very least, everybody is required to be re-fit tested Annually or Once a Year. Most if not all companies who specialize in Asbestos Abatements, for example, will fit test their crew prior to every job. To go longer than a year puts you in grave danger of developing a disease due to a respirator that doesn't perfectly fit any longer.

(2.1)(c) Whenever there is a Change in a Respirator Facepiece, including the Brand, Model, and Size

Not all respirators fit the same. Different brand models and especially different sizes are not all equal in securing a perfect seal to every face type. Look around at all the different shapes, sizes, and configurations in the faces of the population. Not every mask will seal to every face. For that reason, if you change respirator masks, you need to be re-fit tested, without any doubt.

(2.1)(d) whenever changes to the user’s physical condition could affect the respirator fit.

If a worker fluctuates in weight, usually after a major holiday or pre-summer for some, that weight difference can transfer to a different factual configuration. Even more so, if a worker sustained a scare where the mask is seated on their face, a leak might occur. By the same token, if a worker had a tooth infection, facial changes could occur from swelling. That also changes the respirator facepiece from sealing. Eventually, hazardous particles could get by the unsealed respirator facepiece. In this case, conducting a fit test annually is not enough. You must be tested again to ensure a perfect face seal.

The Final Answer

Are Respirator Fit Tests Required? WorkSafe BC Regulation 8.40. Yes, because particulates, fumes, or biohazards are microscopic in size, fit testing to ensure the Respirator facepiece forms a perfect seal to your face is essential. For this reason, any facial hair must be removed prior to wearing one. A clean-shaven face is necessary for a fit test to be conducted. All these factors MUST be taken into consideration.

When should I get Fit Tested? Workers might need to be tested several times a year. If you buy a different mask or fluctuate in body mass changing your facial structure. You might even be unfortunate and receive a scar around your mouth. All are reasons for a new Fit Test. There is no structured count other than the annual re-test date. Given these points, line (d) of the regulations is the one most overlooked. On the positive side, a good Respirator Fit Tester will bring these points up prior to your test. As well, explaining the procedures as noted earlier.

The Next Question about Respirators

In case you're asking now "Why do I need a Respirator Fit Test" the answer can be found here.

However, if you are still not convinced, then read about what substances are potentially in the construction environment and even in your own home.

You could truly be "Breathing in Death". I hope the information provided has answered the questions, "Are Respirator Fit Tests Required?" and "When should I get Fit Tested?"

Please check out the other site pages where FAQ about Respirators and Fit Testing are Answered.

Are Respirator Fit Tests Required? YES