Correct fitting and fit testing of filtering face piece respirators

Fitting the mask

Respirators are available in different designs and sizes. Some are valved and some unvalved – both options provide a high level of protection when worn correctly.

• Fit testing is a means of assessing how well a respirator seals to a face
• It has to be an individual test because one model will never fit all and every face is different

• Fit tests may fail, and protection will be lost, if the mask isn’t being worn properly.
• Sometimes a mask simply won’t fit an individual, but often a better fit can be achieved by taking more care when putting it on. Wearers must be clean-shaven to get a good fit with a respirator.