Do filtering facepiece respirators or surgical masks have to be fit tested?
If an employer requires respirators, fit testing for negative pressure tightfitting respiratorssuch as filtering facepiece respiratorsis mandatory. Surgical masks are not tight-fitting masks and cannot be fit tested. When do I have to conduct a fit test? Fit testing is required prior to initial use, when a different respirator facepiece is used and at least annually thereafter. Additional fit tests are required when there are changes in the users physical condition (facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery or an obvious change in body weight) that could affect respirator fit. Is a medical evaluation necessary prior to being fit tested? Employers must provide a medical evaluation to determine an employees ability to use a respirator. This must occur before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator. What criteria is used to determine the adequacy of a respirator fit? Fit criteria includes proper chin placement, adequate strap tension, nose bridge fit, proper s
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- Are employees who use filtering facepiece respirators (dust masks) voluntarily (e.g., for employee comfort) also required to have medical evaluations?
- Can the PORTACOUNT be used to fit test disposable (filtering facepiece) respirators?
- Do filtering facepiece respirators or surgical masks have to be fit tested?
