Respirator Fit Training
WHAT
MASKFIT Australia respirator fit test training is completed to enable the wearer to understand:
The correct donning, doffing, pre, during and post use checks. as well as care and maintenance of the respirator used and filters.
Why the use of respiratory protection is necessary and how the respirator provides protection.
Relevant exposure sources and potential respiratory health effects resulting from excessive exposure.
Limitations of the respirator, including the service life of filters.
How the respirator has been selected.
Correct fitting of the respirator.
The importance of wearing the respirator always when exposed.
Maintenance cleaning, storage, and disposal requirements.
*All MASKFIT Australia respirator fit training is conducted according to AS/NZS 1715, ‘Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Equipment’ and AS/NZS 1716 ‘Respiratory Protective Devices’ and the Work Health and Safety regulations (TAS) 2012.
WHY
MASKFIT Australia respirator fit training is conducted to ensure the respirator is worn correctly.
The factors that affect the fit of the respirators are:
Comfort
The donning procedure
Facial hair
Jewellery
Other contaminants i.e. makeup
Fit checks
Compatibility with other personal protective equipment
HOW
Figure 1. Respirator Performance with and without Fit Testing.
MASKFIT Australia respirator fit training is conducted in conjunction with respirator fit testing.
The wearer responsibilities for respirator fit testing are:
To be clean shaven (refer to image below)
Fasting and a non smoking for 60 minutes prior to respirator fit testing
The TSI Portacount will generate a fit test certificate record of pass or fail with all relevant information.
As shown in figure 1 adjacent, workers achieve higher levels of protection from their respirator if:
Fit tested workers are more likely to stay healthy and be productive longer.
Healthcare expenses are likely to be lower for fit tested workers.
Employer liability is reduced when workers are fit tested
