N95 Mask Fit Test

• The “N” means “not resistant to oil,” and the “95” refers to the filter efficiency.

Preparing for the test

• Refrain from gum chewing, smoking, eating or drinking (other than water) 15-30 minutes before testing as this may interfere with the test
• Must be clean-shaven around the seal of the mask; therefore, no facial hair where the respirator meets the face

Completing the Medical Screening Assessment for N95

• Respirator Assessment is necessary to identify any participant who may not wear an N95 respirator for health reasons.

How the training will proceed?

• Participants will fill out the Medical Screening Assessment form for N95 Respirator Assessment
• The instructor will explain the procedure of donning and doffing masks
• The instructor will explain the procedure of testing
• Participants will do practice
• Participants will receive a certificate if they pass the test

What happens if I can’t be fit tested?

• Suppose you cannot attain a proper seal with any available respirators. In that case, you will be assessed in Occupational Health and Safety Services to find a protective mask that will fit.

When should fit testing be repeated?

• Every two years
• When a satisfactory fit-test has not been achieved
• A change in the physical condition such as obvious weight gain/loss or if there is a change in facial features

How do I know if I am getting a good seal?

• Use only the respirator fitted to you
• Be fit tested to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Visually inspect respirator to ensure no defects, etc., before use.
• A clean shave for men provides the best protection.
• Should perform two seal checks at donning the respirator:

1. Positive pressure (exhalation check)
2. Negative pressure (inhalation check)

How do I know if I am getting a good seal?

• Use only the respirator fitted to you
• Be fit tested to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Visually inspect respirator to ensure no defects, etc., before use.
• A clean shave for men provides the best protection.
• Should perform two seal checks at donning the respirator:

1. Positive pressure (exhalation check)
2. Negative pressure (inhalation check)

Positive Pressure Fit Check

• Place the palms of your hands over the front and exhale gently
• A proper fit has been obtained if the facepiece bulges slightly and no air leaks are detected between your face and the facepiece.
• If air leakage is detected, reposition the respirator on your face and readjust the tension of the elastic straps to eliminate the leakage.
• Repeat all of the above steps.
• Never enter a contaminated area; if you cannot achieve an air seal by positive and negative pressure checks.

Negative Pressure Fit Check

• Do not disturb the position of the respirator (mask)
• Cover the front of the respirator completely with both hands and inhale sharply.
• A negative pressure should be felt inside the respirator.
• If you feel any air leakage, readjust the position of the respirator or the tension of the straps and retest the seal.

To Remove (Doffing)

• There are no published data on the length of time the respirator is effective for the wearer.
• Health Canada recommends changing the mask if they become wet, interfere with breathing, or come in contact with respiratory droplets. Do not use damaged or visibly soiled masks.
• They are disposable and should be discarded after each use

SEQUENCES (Personal protective equipment)

• Follow the guidelines of your Organization or College.
• Wearing: Gown, Mask, Goggles, Gloves
• Removing: Gloves, Goggles, Gown, Mask