OSHA-Compliant Respiratory Fit Testing
Compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134
Service Description
To ensure worker safety and comply with OSHA standards, employers must conduct a fit test for every employee required to wear a tight-fitting respirator. A proper seal is critical to protect against respiratory hazards.
Cantu Safety, provides professional fit testing services that meet all requirements found in Appendix A to 29 CFR 1910.134. We offer the Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT), an OSHA-accepted pass/fail method that assesses the adequacy of a respirator's fit by relying on the individual’s response to a test agent.
Note: Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT) is available by special request only.
Our Fit Testing Protocol
Our certified technicians follow a strict, documented procedure to ensure every test is accurate and reliable. The process includes:
Ensuring all test equipment is in proper working order.
Preparing the Bitrex™ (Denatonium Benzoate) solution aerosol.
Properly performing the test according to the official OSHA QLFT protocol.
Recognizing and addressing any invalid tests to guarantee a conclusive result.
When is a Fit Test Required by OSHA?
OSHA mandates that a fit test be performed under the following circumstances:
Before an employee uses the respirator for the first time on the job.
At least once annually after the initial test.
Whenever a different respirator facepiece (size, style, model, or make) is used.
When an observer notes physical changes in the employee that could affect the respirator's fit, such as significant facial scarring, major dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an obvious change in body weight.
Requirements & Details
Target Audience: Any employee required to wear a tight-fitting respirator in the workplace.
Critical Prerequisite: The employee must have successfully passed a confidential OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation before the fit test can be performed.
Equipment: The fit test must be conducted using the exact same make, model, style, and size of respirator that the employee will use on the job.
Facial Hair: The employee must be clean-shaven where the respirator seals to the face.
Duration: Approximately 10-20 minutes per person.
Technician-to-Employee Ratio: 1:10 to ensure individual attention and accuracy.