*mandatory*

In accordance with the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 Standard, employers are required perform for fit testing in using the approved procedures.  In working partnership with our clients, TMC does perform either testing procedure that allows for the employer to properly select acceptable respiratory protection for each employee. 

​

OSHA Approved Testing Procedures:

​

Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT)

A qualitative fit test (QLFT) may only be used to fit-test:

• Negative-pressure, air-purifying respirators, as long as they’ll only be used in atmospheres where the hazard is at less than 10 times the permissible exposure limit (PEL).

• Tight fitting face pieces used with powered and atmosphere-supplying respirators.

QLFT is pass/fail and relies on the user’s senses using one of four OSHA-accepted test agents.

​

​

Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT)

A quantitative fit test (QNFT) can be used to fit-test any tight-fitting respirator. It involves using an instrument to measure leakage around the face seal and produces a numerical result called a “fit factor.” There are three OSHA-accepted QNFT test protocols:

• Generated aerosol uses a non-hazardous aerosol such as corn oil generated in a test chamber.

• Condensation nuclei counter (CNC) uses ambient aerosol and doesn’t require a test chamber.

• Controlled negative pressure (CNP) uses a test that creates a vacuum by temporarily cutting off air. (There is also a fourth method, which is an abbreviated version of this one.)