Fit Mask Testing of Respiratory Protective Equipment
Eva and Associates specialize in mask fit testing, ensuring that both healthcare and construction professionals have the best protection against biological or particulate contaminants, including threats like COVID-19 and asbestos.
Respirator Fit Testing for Melbourne Workers
Whether you’re a sparkie working near asbestos, a nurse in a COVID ward, or a tunneller dealing with silica dust, if your mask doesn’t seal properly, you might as well not wear one at all. Eva and Associates has been fit testing respirators for Melbourne workers since before the pandemic made everyone an expert on masks.
Our Testing Services – More Than Just a Quick Check
Look, we’ve seen plenty of dodgy fit testing where someone waves a hood over your head for two minutes and calls it done. That’s not us. When you book a fit test at our Oakleigh facility (just off Atherton Road with easy parking), you’re getting the full works.
Got a bigger crew? No worries – we’ll bring the testing gear to your site. We’ve set up in lunchrooms, car parks, even underground tunnel sites. Wherever your team needs testing, we make it happen.
The thing is, WorkSafe and the health department don’t mess around with respirator standards anymore. Every test we do follows AS/NZS 1715:2009 to the letter – that’s the Australian Standard that keeps you legal and your workers breathing safely. We also work to the ISO 16975-3 protocols and the RESP-FIT requirements that the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists insists on.
Why does this matter? Because when WorkSafe or a site safety officer asks for your fit test certificate, they’re checking it’s from someone properly qualified. Our testers aren’t just trained – they’re RESP-FIT accredited. The few who aren’t yet have already sat their exams and are waiting on paperwork. No cowboys, no shortcuts, just proper testing that stands up anywhere in Australia.
Ensure the safety of your workforce through Eva & Associates’ mask fit test services, tailored specifically for industrial workers.
We take pride in being recognized as a Preferred Fit Test Service Provider by the renowned 3M PPE Mask Fit Test program.
Reach out to us to discover if you qualify for a subsidised mask fit test.
3M is a registered trademark of 3M Company.
Mask Fit Test
Mask fit test evaluates the quality of the seal between the mask and the user’s face. This test is mandatory for all snug-fitting masks, which include:
- Disposable half-face masks
- Reusable half-face masks
- Reusable full-face masks
- Snug-fitting powered air purifying respirators (PAPR)
Two primary methods of fit test align with AS/NZS1715:2009 standards regarding the selection, use, and maintenance of respiratory protective gear: Qualitative and Quantitative. For our purposes, we will conduct Quantitative mask fit test.
Mask Fit Test: Quantitative Method
This method employs advanced particle counting tools to gauge air leakage into the mask. Essentially, it assesses particle concentration outside the mask and contrasts this to the particle concentration inside the face piece. The resulting ratio produces a fit factor, which indicates if a proper fit has been achieved. This testing approach is suitable for half-face masks, full-face masks, and PAPRs.
For both the qualitative and quantitative testing techniques, participants are guided through simple actions such as turning their head side to side, tilting it up and down, and speaking. These activities mimic common workplace movements to ensure the mask remains secure during everyday tasks.
Mask Fit Test: Quantitative vs. Qualitative
Quantitative mask fit test results offer a more objective perspective than qualitative ones, primarily because qualitative assessments rely heavily on the participant’s sense of smell for a pass/fail judgment. This reliance can potentially lead to inaccuracies, allowing for a false pass in the qualitative fit test and possibly compromising worker safety.
According to AS 1715:2009, mask fit test needs to be executed by someone competent, whether it’s an in-house individual, manufacturer, supplier, or consultant. Fit testing should be conducted:
- Annually;
- Prior to wearing a snug-fitting respirator for the first instance;
- Each time a different brand or design of the respirator is provided;
- Anytime there’s a significant alteration in the wearer’s facial appearance or features that might affect the mask’s seal, such as notable weight fluctuations.
It’s crucial to highlight that facial hair interfering with the seal area of a snug-fitting mask can compromise its effectiveness. For males, fit testing should be done when they are either clean-shaven or have ensured there’s no hair obstructing the mask’s fitting surfaces against the face.
Please get in touch with us at info@evaandassociates.com.au or alternatively through the online booking form.
Occupational Hygiene & Environmental Services
