Why is Respiratory Fit Testing Essential?
There are many industries across Australia that operate in hazardous environments where particulate matter concentrations and fumes are hazardous. As such, respiratory mask analysis is critical to ensure that a proper seal is in place at all times and the mask is effectively minimising exposure to these particles and fumes. We provide on-site mask efficiency testing for your team, with our professionals thoroughly working to ensure that the correct seal is in place through qualitative tests like the user’s sense of smell and taste, and through quantitative tests like those conducted to evaluate the seals effectiveness using a fit-testing unit.
What is Quantitative Respiratory Fit Testing?
Quantitative measures using a calibrated instrument will be taken to ensure your team’s respirators have are correctly sized and fitted. This instrument is used to test for leakages around the seal and will provide a value known as a “fit factor” – the determination of how well the respirator seals around the face. This sequence involves a range of protocols including:
- Generated aerosol: A non-hazardous aerosol will be used in a test chamber;
- Condensation nuclei counter (CNC): This protocol utilises an ambient aerosol. There is no need for a test chamber with this protocol;
- Controlled negative pressure (CNP): This is a test that produces a vacuum which will temporarily cut off the air supply to test for air leakage.
How Qualitive Fit Testing Works
Our experts will also use a range of qualitative respiratory mask fit testing (QLFT) methods to fit test both air-purifying, negative-pressure respirators and tight-fitting facepieces used with atmosphere and power-supplying respirators.
QLFT relies on qualitative tests that include the following:
- Isoamyl acetate: This is analysis for the “banana smell” and is only conducted on respirators that contain organic vapor cartridges;
- Saccharine: This is analysis for the “sweet taste” and can be used on respirators of any class of particulate filter;
- Irritant smoke: This is to test for involuntary cough reflex and will only be conducted on respirators with particulate filters with a level 100 fit factor.
Every QLFT is conducted for a predefined period of time. They entail this subject to engage in seven exercises to check for a proper seal, including:
- Normal breath
- Deep breath
- Twisting head from side to side
- Nodding the head up and down
- Talking
- Bending over or jogging
- Concludes with normal breathing once again
