How to Do Fit Testing: Qualitative Testing for OSHA Compliance

Fit testing simply puts the respirator to test ─ ensuring that it’s doing its job to protect your employees from airborne hazards.

So, how is fit testing performed?

Here’s the quick version: The fit tester performs an initial threshold test using nebulizers filled with Bitrex (a bitter-tasting solution) or saccharin (a sweet-tasting solution). The first part of the test is completed without the respirator. The tester pumps the nebulizer into the testing hood until the employee signals that they can taste the testing agent. This number of pumps determines what number will be used in the next part of the test. Next, the employee will don the respirator and the testing hood and complete a series of movements while the nebulizer is squeezed into the hood. If the employee doesn’t taste anything during these exercises, the worker passes the test and is cleared to wear their respirator!

HOW DO I RECORD RESULTS?

Record-keeping is imperative to OSHA compliance ─ we make it easy. Mobile Health’s tracking and reporting technology protects and organizes your respirator fit test and medical evaluation results. Along with having results on file, all passing candidates must be provided a clearance card specifying the respirator make and model for which they have been cleared. OSHA regulations require candidates to maintain this card on their person for proof.

CAN I PERFORM MY OWN RESPIRATOR FIT TESTING?

Yes! We are the nation’s #1 provider for OSHA-compliant DIY fit testing! We provide all the supplies, printed instructions, training videos, and even conduct live training to ensure you feel 100% confident in your fit testing capabilities! When you choose FIT KIT™, you get access to our award-winning technology, making record-keeping effortless. Each FIT KIT™ is fully stocked to test 100 employees and includes 25 free online medical evaluations.

EVERY FIT TESTING SOLUTION, TAILORED TO YOU

No matter how many employees or the timeframe you may have ─ we are the only provider that makes fit testing faster, customized, and accessible. We can equip you to fit test in-house, you can send your employees to our 6,500+ respirator fit testing clinics, or we can send our on-site team to test your employees all at once for instant OSHA clearance. 77% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Mobile Health location, making it easier than ever to fit test your employees. From 10 to 100,000, we’ve done it all. Simplify your respirator fit testing program today!