RESPIRATORY FIT TESTING

Investigation
FOR MEMBERS AND CLIENTS

Ensuring the proper fit of respiratory protective equipment is critical for safeguarding
employees in environments with hazardous airborne contaminants. Respiratory fit testing
verifies that a respirator forms a secure seal on the user’s face, providing the necessary
protection. This investigation outlines to potentially offering either qualitative or
quantitative fit testing to our members. In this investigation we will explore fit testing
methods, cost options, and member survey responses to fit testing services. Additionally,
this investigation is designed in mind to help our members and clients in meeting compliance
standards and most importantly enhance workplace safety. By conducting regular and
accurate fit testing, we can help our members and clients minimize exposure risks and
maintain the health and safety of their workplace.

Overview
Fit testing ensures that respiratory protective equipment fits the wearer properly,
providing adequate protection. Quantitative fit testing involves the use of specialized
equipment to measure the actual amount of leakage occurring at the face seal and
provides an objective, numerical result. In contrast, qualitative fit testing relies on the
wearer’s subjective response to a test agent, such as a taste or smell, to determine
whether the respirator fits correctly. Both methods are crucial for ensuring safety in
environments with hazardous airborne contaminants.
§5199. Appendix G.

1
When is Quantitative Fit Testing Required?

Whenever a respirator is required on the job, employers must ensure that employees are
properly trained and medically cleared. This includes undergoing a medical evaluation by a
Physician or Licensed Health Care Provider (PLHCP) before completing a fit test.

Respiratory fit testing should be conducted annually to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the
protective equipment. Additionally, it is required at the time of initial fitting, whenever a
different size, make, or model or style is used, and whenever there is a report of a change of
physical characteristics that may change fit, i.e.: surgery, major dental work, or major weight
loss. §5199. Appendix G.

Respiratory fit testing involves two main methods: Qualitative and Quantitative.

1. Qualitative Fit Testing uses pass/fail methods where the wearer relies on their senses to
detect a test agent (such as sweet, bitter, or smoke) while performing specific exercises
like talking, turning the head, or bending over. If the wearer detects the substance, the
fit is inadequate.
2. Quantitative Fit Testing uses specialized instruments, like a Portacount or Controlled
Negative Pressure (CNP) device, to measure the actual amount of leakage into the
respirator while the wearer performs similar exercises. The results provide a numerical
fit factor that indicates the quality of the fit.

Both methods help ensure that the respirator is sealing correctly and providing adequate
protection.

2
Cost of Respiratory Fit Testing Instruments

The cost of respiratory fit testing instruments varies depending on the type of test and
equipment. Qualitative fit testing kits are generally more affordable, ranging from $300 to
$500, as they use simple test agents like saccharin or Bitrex. Quantitative fit testing devices,
such as the Portacount or CNP systems, are more expensive, typically costing between $8,000
and $15,000. These instruments provide detailed numerical data on respirator fit, justifying the
higher cost.

Contents of a Qualitative Fit Testing Kit

A standard qualitative fit testing kit includes the following components:

1. Test Hood – A clear hood worn over the respirator user's head during the fit test.
(Individually priced at $24. 44 -$43.72)

1. Test Solutions – These include both sensitivity and test solutions, often containing
saccharin (sweet taste) or Bitrex (bitter taste), which the user may detect if the
respirator is not properly sealed.

(Individually priced at $25.23 6 PK Allegro Fit Testing Solution: Bitrex, 2.5cc Fluid Volume
$32.00 ULINE 3M Replacement FT-12 Fit Test Solution Enough for 200 tests, depending
on the type of test solution)

2. Nebulizers – Small handheld devices used to aerosolize the test solution and introduce
it into the test hood.(Individually priced at $39.99 -$117.49)

3. Instructions and Protocols – A guide explaining the step-by-step process for

administering the qualitative fit test.

4. Spare Parts – Extra nebulizer nozzles and other small accessories for the testing kit.

These components enable a straightforward, pass/fail fit test by detecting if the wearer can
sense the taste or smell of the test solution through the respirator.

3
Cost of Quantitative Respiratory Fit Testing Instruments:

New Equipment

 Fit Testing Machine:

o Basic Model: $5,000 - $7,000
o Advanced Model: $10,500 - $13,000

 Calibration Kits:
o Standard Calibration Kit: $500 - $800 (Some companies offer it for free, annually
done)

 Test Adaptors and Accessories:

o Standard Adaptor Set: $300 - $500
o Specialized Adaptor Set (for various masks): $500 - $700

 Replacement Parts:
o Filters and Sensors: $200 - $400 per set
o Battery Packs: $150 - $250 each

 Training and Support:

o Initial Training Session: $500 - $1,000 (Completed $775 Respiratory Protection
Training)

*No required certification to conduct Fit testing but there are specific qualifications that fit
testers should meet*

These costs can vary based on the brand, model, and additional features of the equipment.

Sources: Google Shopping, eBay, Industrial Protection Services (IPS), Levittsafety

Used or “Pre-Owned” Equipment

 Fit Testing Machine:

o Varies on Basic or Advanced Model: $599.99 - $4,049.96

Source: Google Shopping, eBay

4
Who Can Perform Respirator Fit Tests?

Respirator fit tests can be performed by individuals who are appropriately trained to conduct
the tests according to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards. While
OSHA does not specify a particular certification for fit test administrators, they must be
competent in the following areas:

 OSHA Fit Testing Protocols: Detailed in OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.134 standard.

 Different Respirator Types: They must understand the mechanics of respirators (e.g.,
N95, half-face, full-face).
 Fit Testing Methods: Including qualitative (e.g., taste or smell tests) and quantitative
(e.g., using a machine to measure fit).
 Troubleshooting Fit Issues: Knowledge of seal checks, facial hair guidelines, and other
factors affecting fit.

Potential Services Offered through the Respiratory Fit-Testing Program

The services outlined below are designed to provide comprehensive support to both employers
and employees. From conducting fit tests to offering guidance on regulatory compliance and
program implementation, these offerings help mitigate respiratory risks in the workplace. With
a focus on prevention, education, and continuous improvement, these services help ensure that
respiratory protective equipment is used effectively and responsibly.

 Respiratory Fit Testing: Conducting fit tests to ensure the effectiveness and proper fit of
respiratory protective equipment

 Training Programs: Providing training sessions on proper use, maintenance, and fit of
respiratory protective equipment

 Respiratory Protection Program Development: Assisting in the creating and implementation

of customized respiratory protection programs tailored to specific needs and regulatory
requirements (something we already assist in)

 Compliance Audits: Performing audits to assess adherence to safety regulations and

industry best practices.

 Ongoing Support and Consultation: Offering continued support and expert advice to
address any respiratory protection concerns and adapt programs as needed.

5
 Fit Testing Services Survey

As part of an effort to investigate members' needs regarding respirator fit testing, a survey was
distributed, yielding 28 responses. The survey explored key aspects of fit testing, including who
conducts the testing, associated costs, methods used, frequency, and the types of respirators in
use. Notably, some respondents indicated that their companies avoid fit testing altogether,
instead opting for N-95 masks to minimize compliance needs. Among those conducting fit
testing, qualitative methods (QLFT) were most commonly used, with quantitative methods
(QNFT) also mentioned. The costs reported varied significantly; while some companies include
fit testing as part of annual training fees, others reported paying per employee or session, with
rates ranging from $35 per hour to $100 per employee. Testing frequency also varied, with
responses ranging from "as needed" to "annually."

Key Questions:

 Who conducts the company's fit testing?

 What is the cost associated with fit testing?
 What methods (e.g., qualitative or quantitative) are used?
 How frequently is fit testing requested?
 What types of respirators are used?

Common Themes:

 Many responses mention avoiding fit testing by relying on N-95 masks.

 The qualitative fit testing (QLFT) method is mentioned frequently, alongside
quantitative fit testing (QNFT).
 Costs vary significantly; some companies include fit testing as part of annual training
fees, while others pay per employee or per session.
 Frequency ranges from "as needed" to "annually."

Vendors/Providers:

 Multiple service providers are mentioned, including "Cardinal Professional Products,"

"Cal Ag Safety," and "Atwater Occupational Health."
 Some companies use internal teams, while others rely on external providers.

Unmet Needs:

 Certain responses suggest uncertainty or interest in more accessible services, indicating

room for improvement or expansion in fit-testing offerings. This limited response rate
highlights the diversity of practices and challenges companies face in ensuring
compliance and meeting fit-testing requirements, suggesting opportunities for tailored
resources or enhanced service offerings to address these gaps.

6
 Company Price Range
Non-customer- $50 per fit
Cardinal Customer- offered as complimentary service
Non-customer- $100 per fit
Cal Ag Safety Customer- Part of annual training fee
Full Face - $45 per fit
Half Mask $35 per fit
Jorgenson Travel - $50-$60 an hour
Co-Op Medical Partners Unsure
Atwater Occupational Health Unsure
CSTC and Kings Medical Unsure
Todd Barth Unsure
JG Boswell Unsure

Figure 1: Costs for fit testing vary widely; some organizations incorporate it into annual training fees,
while others pay per employee.

Fit-Testing Companies Amongst Members

14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
y er n s l l
na
l
et ne so er l th ica rth el n
di f No ag en tr n ea d Ba sw ow
r Sa an g a H e
Bo kn
Ca Ag M Jo
r lP na
l
sM dd U n
l ty ica ng To JG
Ca fe tio Ki
Sa ed upa d
M c an
-O
p
r Oc T C
Co at
e C S
w
At

Figure 2: Service providers such as Cardinal Professional Products, Cal Ag Safety, and Atwater
Occupational Health were frequently mentioned as fit-testing providers, though some small amount of
members rely on in-house teams.

7
 Fit Test Method
14

12

10

0
QNT QLFT Both No Response

Figure 3: Some members admitted to avoiding fit testing altogether. Meanwhile, some members used
both qualitative methods (QLFT) and quantitative methods (QNFT).

Type of Respirator
14

12

10

Figure 4: The type of respirators used varied amongst our members.

8
 Frequency of Fit Test
25

20

15

10

0
As needed Annually

Figure 5: The frequency of fit testing ranges from "as needed" to annually, suggesting varying levels of
compliance or operational requirements.

Is this a service that you would like to see WAPA

offer?
25

20

15

10

0
Yes No Unsure

Figure 6: A majority of the members surveyed checked “yes” as a service they would like to see WAPA
offer.

9
 How Likely to Request Service
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
Very Unlikely Unlikely Neutral Likely Very Likely

Figure 7: There was a mixed of responses of how likely to request fit testing services if it were offered by
WAPA.

Overall, the survey aimed to explore company practices surrounding respirator fit testing,
focusing on who conducts the testing, associated costs, testing methods, frequency, and the
types of respirators used.

10