Fit testing is a safety procedure used to ensure that respiratory protective equipment (RPE), such as masks or respirators, fits an individual correctly.

The goal is to make sure the mask forms a proper seal on the wearer’s face, providing maximum protection against airborne hazards like dust, chemicals, or pathogens.

There are two main types of fit testing. Qualitative fit testing is a pass or fail test that relies on the wearer’s sense of taste or smell to determine if a respirator fits correctly, commonly used for disposable or elastomeric masks.

Quantitative fit testing uses specialized equipment to measure the actual leakage into the mask, providing a numerical fit factor for more precise results. For this reason we only use the quantitative method of testing.

Fit testing is required for any worker who wears a respirator or mask to protect against airborne hazards in the workplace. This includes employees in industries such as construction, mining, healthcare, manufacturing, and laboratories, where dust, fumes, chemicals, or biological agents may be present.

Employers are responsible for ensuring fit testing is conducted to comply with workplace safety regulations and to ensure the respirator provides proper protection.Description text goes here

In Australia, the recommended frequency for respirator fit testing aligns with best practice under AS/NZS 1715 (the standard for respiratory protective equipment) and workplace safety guidance:

• Fit testing must be done before a worker uses a tight‑fitting respirator for the first time.

• It should be repeated at least annually — this is widely recognised as the common industry practice to ensure continued protection and compliance.

• Fit testing should also be repeated whenever there is a change that could affect the seal, such as: a change in respirator make/model/size, significant weight gain or loss, dental work, or other changes to facial features.

Annual testing is considered best practice to maintain an effective respiratory protection program, although exact frequency can be determined by your risk assessment and the requirements of AS/NZS 1715 (e.g., if your workplace has higher risks you may choose to test more often).m description

We provide on-site fit testing at your workplace anywhere in New South Wales. Our team comes directly to your location, so your employees can be tested without leaving the worksite, minimising downtime and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

A fit test usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes per person, depending on the type of respirator and if they pass the test . If you’re testing multiple employees at a site, we can schedule them efficiently to minimise workplace disruption.

A failed respirator test means an inadequate seal. So usually we will check to ensure the respirator is fitted correctly and repeat the test, or trial another respirator.