Significance and Use
4.1 The purpose of this guide is to provide clear and consistent guidance with regard to the respirator fit-testing components of an effective respiratory protection program.
4.2 The respirator fit test itself is simply one facet of fit testing. An effective program requires much more, including a qualified person to perform the fit test. This guide provides guidance on exactly what knowledge and skills are necessary to perform as a qualified fit test operator.
4.3 This guide contains information to aid program managers and fit test operators in preparing to perform a proper fit test. This includes guidance regarding potential interference from other personal protective equipment (PPE) with the respirator, detailed information on respirators used for fit testing, selection of respirators before fit testing, and other considerations that shall be met if the fit test is to be effective.
4.4 A single fit test exercise protocol cannot model all workplace activities encountered by respirator users. Recognizing this, this guide provides flexibility regarding fit test exercise protocols. Exercises may be selected that are more representative of actual workplace activities, including repeated respirator donning.
4.5 Exceptions—Users of this guide should be aware that regulatory agencies may have requirements that are different from this guide.
Scope
1.1 This guide provides guidance on how to conduct fit testing of tight-fitting respirators and appropriate methods to be used. Fit testing is only one element of a complete respiratory protection program. Examples of complete respiratory protection programs are defined in Practice F3387, 29 CFR 1910.134, and so forth.
1.2 Purpose—This guide provides requirements for conducting respirator fit testing and includes:
1.2.1 Qualifications for fit test operators,
1.2.2 Specific fit test methods,
1.2.3 Interpretation of fit test results,
1.2.4 Recordkeeping, and
1.2.5 Methods to validate new fit test methods.
1.3 Should and Shall—The provisions of this guide are mandatory in nature when the word “shall” is used and advisory in nature when the word “should” is used.
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
