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Respiratory Protective Equipment Fit Testing
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is a critical type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) designed to safeguard individuals from harmful contaminants within the workplace.
A properly fitted RPE ensures the workers are protected against exposure to various hazards, including:
- Fumes
- Asbestos fibres
- Dust particles
- Hazard chemicals
- Infectious substances
Why choose OccuMED for RPE Fit Testing?
OccuMED provides professional quantitative RPE Fit testing services that adhere to the Australian Standards AS/NZS 1715. Our testing ensures an objective an accurate assessment for RPE effectiveness, giving workers and employers the confidence in safety measures.
Why is RPE Fit Testing Important?
Without a proper fit, respirators may fail to protect the individual from harmful exposures, potentially leading to serious health risks. Regular testing ensure compliance with Work Health Safety regulations, protects the individual from workplace hazards and provides indication of issues affecting respirator effectiveness.
When should RPE Fit Testing Be Conducted?
RPE Fit testing should be undertaken where a worker may be exposed to any hazardous contaminants. Individuals should be tested prior to the commencement of such work and continuous annual testing to ensure the fit remains appropriate. A RPE Fit test may be warranted if the following is indicated:
- Significant increase/decrease in body weight
- Requires a different type of respiratory due to site or job role changes.
- Dental changes
- Reported discomfort while wearing the mask.
OccuMED Masks
| Mask Brand / Model | Type | Usage Type |
|---|---|---|
| 3M 9322A+ (one size) | Half-Face | Disposable |
| 3M 7501 (small) | Half-Face | Non-Disposable |
| 3M 7502 (medium) | Half-Face | Non-Disposable |
| 3M 7503 (large) | Half-Face | Non-Disposable |
| SM 6800 (medium) | Full-Face | Non-Disposable |
If a respiratory is not listed above, please contact OccuMED to discuss the appropriate equipment required for testing.
Clean Shave Requirements
An individual must be clean shaven prior to undergoing a RPE Fit test. This is mandatory to ensure compliance with the AS/NZS 1715 standards. Facial hair that crosses the sealing surface of the mask prevents a proper seal, leading to an unsuccessful fit.
For the RPE Fit test to proceed, the individuals face should be:
- Completely removed of facial hair, including stubble.
- Shaving should be done as close to the appointment time as possible.
The only exception is if the facial hair does not cross the sealing surface of the masks. If in doubt, worker is recommended to shave.
