Mask Fit Testing Brisbane and Gold Coast

A respirator fit test is a methodical assessment that checks for the correct fit of a respirator on the user's face. The aim is to ensure that the mask forms a tight seal, preventing any harmful contaminants from being inhaled. It's a crucial safety measure for anyone who must use a respirator in environments with airborne hazards.

At ABL Distribution, we use precision instruments like Portacount or Accufit for this testing. These devices measure the concentration of particles inside versus outside the mask, calculating an Overall Fit Factor (FF). For a half-face respirator, a FF of at least 100 is necessary for an adequate seal. For full-face models, this requirement increases to a FF of at least 1000, reflecting the greater protective capabilities these respirators provide.

We also accommodate testing for disposable masks, using a specialized 'punch adaptor' to ensure proper fit evaluation. It's important to note that this process will render the disposable mask unfit for future use. Similarly, for a PAPR unit, which offers a battery-powered air filter, we conduct tests with the unit turned off to accurately assess the mask's fit without the aid of the device's positive pressure system.

By maintaining these rigorous standards, ABL Distribution ensures that your respiratory protection is effective, keeping you safe while you work.

For effective respirator fit testing, a clean-shaven face is a crucial requirement. According to Workplace Health & Safety Regulations, facial hair that comes into contact with the sealing area of a respirator can compromise the mask's ability to seal correctly. This is because hairs can create tiny gaps along the seal, allowing harmful particles to enter.

For accurate fit-testing, it's essential that the facepiece of the respirator makes direct contact with the skin. Any facial hair in this area, whether it's a beard, moustache, or even stubble, can interfere with the respirator's seal and reduce its protective effectiveness. Therefore, fit-testing is conducted only on individuals who are clean-shaven in the area where the respirator will sit.

This requirement is not just about compliance; it's about ensuring your utmost safety. A well-sealed respirator is your best defence against airborne hazards, and being clean-shaven is a key part of achieving this reliable seal. At ABL Distribution, we prioritise your health and safety, and adhering to these standards is a part of that commitment.

ABL allows 20 minutes for each appointment.
The actual testing time is approximately 3 minutes.

ABL Distribution can perform Quantitative Fit Test on a range of mask brands, models & sizes including:

3M 6000 Series

3M 7000 Series

3M 6500 Series

3M Secure Click

Sundstrom

CleanSpace (Please ensure your unit includes a head harness)

Aviva

Scott Safety Promask (SC160)

ProChoice

STS (Shigematsu) PAPR & Non-PAPR (Please ensure you have P3 filters available for the test - ABL may not be able to provide filters)

Maxisafe (Please ensure you have P3 filters available for the test - ABL does not stock this brand and is unable to provide filters)

Moldex 7000 & 9000 Series (Please ensure you have P3 filters available for the test - ABL does not stock this brand and is unable to provide filters)

All P2/N95 Disposables

Note - ABL is limited to the brands of masks we can test. Please contact our office to confirm we are able to conduct testing prior to making a booking.
If unsure of any of the above please feel free to contact our office on (07) 5618 5100 and we can help with any questions you may have.

Once you've successfully booked your respirator fit test with ABL Distribution, here’s a streamlined process you can expect:

1. Booking Confirmation: After finalizing and paying for your booking, you'll receive a detailed 'Booking Confirmation' email from us. This email not only confirms your appointment but also includes essential details about the appointment, our terms and conditions, and any other helpful information. If you've purchased any equipment during the booking, rest assured that we will have it arranged and ready for your test.
2. Reminder Call: To ensure everything goes smoothly, we'll give you a friendly reminder call the day before your scheduled appointment. This call is an excellent opportunity for us to reconfirm the details and for you to ask any last-minute questions or cancel the appointment without any charge, if necessary.
3. Post-Testing Documentation: After your fit test is complete, we provide two key pieces of documentation for your records – a Fit Test Card and a detailed Fit Test Report. These documents are crucial for demonstrating compliance and for your own reference.

Please note: For online bookings, a member of our team will contact you to finalize payment and confirm your appointment. It’s important to complete this step to secure your slot, as unpaid bookings remain open for others.

This streamlined approach ensures that from the moment you book until you receive your fit test results, the process is smooth, transparent, and supportive. Our goal is to make your fit testing experience as hassle-free and informative as possible.

On the day of your respirator fit test, you can expect a structured and informative experience. Here's what the process typically involves

1. Initial Briefing: Before we begin, our team will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the testing process. We'll explain each step, its importance, and how it contributes to ensuring your respirator's effectiveness and your safety.
2. Respirator Presentation: You'll be asked to bring the respirator you will be using. If you don't have one, don't worry; we offer a selection of high-quality respirators that you can choose from and purchase on the spot.
3. Correct Application Demonstration: Our skilled fit testers will demonstrate the correct way to apply your face mask. This is a crucial step to ensure the mask's effectiveness. You'll then be asked to replicate the application to confirm you're comfortable and proficient in doing it yourself
4. Conducting the Fit Test: The actual test involves a series of exercises designed to simulate real-world movements and assess the mask's fit under various conditions. These exercises include:
   • Bending over for 60 seconds
   • Jogging on the spot or talking for 30 seconds (depending on the type of mask)
   • Moving the head side to side for 30 seconds
   • Moving the head up and down for 30 seconds
   • Standing still for 15 seconds

   These exercises are crucial in ensuring that your respirator remains securely fitted, regardless of your movements or the working conditions. By the end of the process, you'll have a clear understanding of how your respirator should fit and feel confident in its ability to provide protection.

Remember: Each step of this process is designed with your safety in mind. At ABL Distribution, we ensure that you leave not just with a well-fitting respirator, but also with the knowledge and confidence to use it effectively in your workplace.

Fit testing is an essential safety requirement for various professionals who rely on respirators in their work environment. This includes a wide range of occupations where individuals are exposed to airborne contaminants or hazardous atmospheres. Key groups that typically require fit testing include:

1. Healthcare Workers: Medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and laboratory technicians, who may be exposed to airborne pathogens or harmful substances in healthcare settings.
2. Industrial Workers: Employees in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, or any other sector where they might encounter dust, vapours, gases, or other hazardous materials.
3. Construction Workers: Individuals working in construction often encounter dust, debris, and other respiratory hazards, making respirator use and proper fit testing critical for their safety.
4. Emergency Responders: Firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency personnel who might be exposed to smoke, hazardous fumes, or chemical spills during their response activities.

Fit testing ensures that the selected respirator provides an effective seal and adequate protection against specific hazards associated with these professions. It's not just about compliance with safety regulations; it's a crucial step in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of individuals who face respiratory risks in their daily work. At ABL Distribution, we specialize in providing thorough and reliable fit testing for these and other professionals, ensuring their respiratory protection is as effective as possible.

Fit testing is not just a one-time procedure but an ongoing requirement to ensure continuous protection. Here’s the recommended frequency for fit testing:

1. Initial Testing: When you're first issued a respirator, it's crucial to have a fit test. This initial testing ensures that the specific make, model, and size of the respirator you're using provides a proper seal and adequate protection from the start.
2. Annual Testing: Respirator fit should be reassessed at least once a year. Regular annual testing accounts for any potential changes in facial structure, the respirator’s condition, or workplace exposure levels.
3. Upon Changes in Respirator Type: If you switch to a different type or size of respirator, a new fit test is necessary. Different models and sizes can fit differently, so it's essential to verify that the new respirator provides an effective seal.
4. Following Facial Changes: Any significant changes to your facial features may affect the fit of your respirator. This includes weight fluctuations, dental work, facial surgery, or any other changes that might alter how your respirator fits. In such cases, it’s important to conduct a new fit test to ensure continued effectiveness.

At ABL Distribution, we emphasize the importance of regular fit testing to ensure your respiratory protection remains effective and compliant with safety standards. Whether it's your first test or an annual re-evaluation, we’re here to provide comprehensive fit testing to meet your needs.

If your fit test results indicate a failure to achieve an adequate seal with your respirator, it's important to understand that this is not an uncommon situation and can be addressed. Here’s what happens in such cases:

1. Assessing the Cause: Various factors can contribute to a failed fit test. Our experienced fit testers at ABL Distribution will first analyze the specific reasons for the failure. This could be due to the respirator's size, style, or even the way it's being worn.
2. Exploring Alternatives: Once we identify the cause, we’ll explore alternative RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) options. This might involve trying different sizes or models of respirators to find one that fits you correctly.
3. Personalized Solutions: Our aim is to ensure that you leave with a respirator that provides the necessary protection. We'll work closely with you to find a solution that not only passes the fit test but also feels comfortable for prolonged use.
4. Additional Guidance and Support: If a suitable alternative is found, we’ll guide you through the correct way to wear and maintain it. Our team is also available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about respirator use.

At ABL Distribution, we are committed to ensuring that every individual we test walks away with the right equipment for their safety. A failed fit test is a step in the process of securing your health and safety at the workplace, and we are here to support you through it.

No. When it comes to respirator fit testing, the specificity of the mask being tested is crucial. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Specificity of the Fit Test: A fit test is valid only for the specific brand, model, and size of the mask that you will actually be wearing. This is because different masks have unique designs and fits, and the test ensures that the specific mask you use provides a proper seal for your face.
2. Using Your Own Mask: It's important that you are tested on the mask you will be using in your work environment. You can bring your own mask for the fit test, ensuring that the fit test is as relevant and accurate as possible.
3. Purchasing from ABL: If you don't have a mask, ABL Distribution offers a range of masks that you can purchase. We can then perform the fit test on the mask you select from our stock.
4. No Testing on Unowned Masks: Our policy is to conduct fit tests only on masks that you own or have purchased from us. This ensures that the fit test results are valid for the mask you will be using regularly. We cannot perform tests on masks that are not in your possession, as the fit test results would not be applicable to your actual work scenario.

At ABL Distribution, we adhere to these guidelines to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of our fit testing services. Our goal is to make sure that your respirator fits properly and offers the highest level of protection in your specific work environment.