Respiratory Fit Tests/ Respirator Certification

Some necessary jobs require the frequent use of respirators. Firefighters who are exposed to smokes, body shop workers who are exposed to spray paint, and other workers exposed to various gases or hazardous materials on the job site, all need respirators and respiratory training.

An employee receives a Respiratory Certification by answering a simple questionnaire on the proper use of respirators, and that questionnaire is examined by our occupational health staff. In some cases, further examination by our medical professionals may be necessary for certification. 

 Respirator fit testing is conducted to ensure the specific respirator used by the employee is functional and the employee is trained in its use. The fit test looks for exactly that--does it fit the employee and does it work properly? This is required for all employees who wear a respirators, or potentially could wear a respirator.

There are essentially 3 parts to a good Respiratory Protection Program:

1. Respirator Certification
   Even the best respirator doesn't work if it's not used properly. Any employees who wears any type of respirator on the job must be trained and certified in the use of the respirator. An employee becomes certified but taking a simple questionnaire, on either half face or full face respirators. This questionnaire is then reviewed by an experienced healthcare provider qualified to grant the certification. In some cases, further examination by our medical professionals may be necessary for certification.
2. Pulmonary Function Test (Spirometry)
   Pulmonary function testing, or spirometry, is a way to measure lung health, by measuring the the amount and speed of air inhaled and exhaled, which shows lung health and capacity. This test can be used to measure deep inspiration, and forced expiration rates and volumes. Spirometry can help determine how well an employee will function in environments with airborne irritants like smoke or fumes. A baseline test of lung function can be used to compare with regular screenings during employment to help maintain respiratory health.
3. Respirator Fit Test
    Respirator fit testing is conducted to ensure the specific respirator used by the employee is functional and the employee is trained in its use. The fit test looks for exactly that--does it fit the employee and does it work properly? This is required for all employees who wear a respirators, or potentially could wear a respirator, such as for escape purposes. There are two types of fit tests: Qualitative and Quantitative. The Qualitative test is used for half-face masks and can be conducted with saccharin, smoke or bitrex. The Quantitative test is used for full face masks. At Lower Columbia Occuplational Health, we use the Portacount Fit Testing machine, which measures the particulate in the ambient  air and compares it to the particulate measured inside the mask, to achieve a minimum ratio for safety. This test shows  how well the mask fits and how well the filters keep out gases and fumes. This test is required for all full face masks and can also be used to ensure the quality of half face masks.