Fit Mask Testing Melbourne
At Eva and Associates, we've been conducting fit mask testing in Melbourne for decades, helping tradies, nurses, doctors, and construction workers stay safe from everything from silica dust to airborne viruses. Whether you're dealing with asbestos removal or working in a hospital ward, proper mask fit can literally be a lifesaver.
How Our Melbourne Fit Mask Testing Works
We know you’re busy, so we’ve made fit mask testing Melbourne workers need as convenient as possible. Pop into our Oakleigh office (just off Atherton Road with plenty of parking), or if you’ve got a bigger crew, we’ll come to you. We’ve done fit mask testing at Melbourne construction sites, hospitals, and manufacturing plants across the metro area.
Our testing isn’t just a quick check and you’re done. We follow the AS/NZS 1715:2009 standard to the letter because WorkSafe Victoria doesn’t mess around, and neither do we. Every fit mask testing Melbourne procedure includes the full range of exercises – talking, bending, turning your head – all the movements you’d actually do on the job. We use the same quantitative testing equipment that the big mining companies trust, because when it comes to your lungs, “she’ll be right” isn’t good enough.
What sets our fit mask testing Melbourne service apart? Our testers aren’t just trained – they’re RESP-FIT accredited through the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists. That means when you get your fit test certificate from us, it’s recognised across every worksite in Victoria. No arguments, no hassles, just straight onto the tools.
For bigger companies needing regular fit mask testing, Melbourne businesses trust us to handle their entire workforce efficiently. We’ve tested everyone from apprentice sparkies to senior surgeons, and we understand that different industries have different needs. That’s why we stock masks from all the major brands and can test whatever respirator your workplace requires.
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
