Respirator fit testing under OSHA 1910.134
Qualitative and quantitative fit tests for tight-fitting respirators, with medical clearance available the same visit.
Before you come in
What to bring and how to prepare
A fit test is only valid for the exact respirator the worker will wear. Bring it.
Good to know
- Be clean-shaven wherever the mask seals; stubble fails the test.
- No eating, drinking, smoking, or gum for 15 minutes before a qualitative test.
- Bring prescription glasses if worn under a full-face mask.
Bring
- The respirator(s) the employee will use — make, model, and size
- Photo ID
- Employer authorization
- Current medical clearance, if done elsewhere
The visit
What the fit test includes
Clearance check
We confirm a current medical evaluation or complete one on the spot.
Seal check
Worker dons the respirator and performs positive and negative pressure checks.
Sensitivity screen
For qualitative tests, a taste threshold check for the test agent.
Exercise protocol
Seven movements — breathing, head turns, talking, bending — while the seal is measured.
Fit record
Pass/fail with make, model, and size recorded for your OSHA file.
Due for annual fit testing?
Monday–Friday, 7am to 5pm at Denver, Lakewood, Parker, and Thornton. Hablamos Español.
What it is
Proof that the mask seals on the worker’s face
OSHA requires a fit test before an employee first wears a tight-fitting respirator, annually after that, and whenever the mask model or the worker’s face changes. The test confirms the specific make, model, and size seals properly during normal movement.
Medical clearance must come first. If the worker has not completed a respirator medical evaluation, we can do both in one visit.
After the exam
A record ready for your OSHA file
Every fit test produces the written record 1910.134 requires: name, test type, respirator make/model/size, date, and result.
- Pass
- Fit record issued for that specific respirator; valid 12 months.
- Fail
- We try another size or model in the same visit when available.
- Reporting
- Results sent to the employer’s safety contact the same day.
- Reminders
- Annual re-test reminders for employer accounts.
For employers
Fit-test a whole crew in one block
Group scheduling at the clinic or on-site at your facility, with records delivered in a format your safety program can file directly.
Common questions
Respirator fit testing, answered
Answers from our front desk and examiners. General information, not medical or legal advice.
What is the difference between a fit test and a medical evaluation?
The medical evaluation (respirator exam) confirms the worker can safely wear a respirator. The fit test confirms a specific mask seals on their face. OSHA requires both, and clearance comes first.
Qualitative or quantitative — which do we need?
Qualitative (taste-based) is acceptable for half-face respirators up to a fit factor of 100, including N95s. Full-face and higher-protection respirators need a quantitative test.
Do we have to bring our own respirators?
Yes, ideally. The result only applies to the exact make, model, and size tested. We stock common sizes if an alternate is needed.
Can facial hair pass?
Not where the mask seals. A mustache that does not cross the seal is fine; beards and stubble along the seal line will fail.