Mask Fit Testing Calgary

Mask fit testing is the process of checking whether a respirator forms a proper seal on the wearer’s face so it can provide the intended protection against airborne hazards. It helps confirm that the employee is using the right make, model, and size of respirator and that the mask fits securely and comfortably for the work being performed.

There are two main types of fit testing: qualitative and quantitative. A qualitative fit test is a pass-or-fail test based on whether the wearer can smell or taste a test solution. A quantitative fit test uses specialized equipment to measure how much air leaks into the respirator and calculates a fit factor. Both methods help determine whether the respirator is providing an effective seal.

Mask fit testing is important because workers in industries such as construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and other environments with airborne hazards may be exposed to dust, fumes, chemicals, or other harmful particles. If a respirator does not fit properly, it may not protect the worker as intended. A proper fit test is a key part of a workplace respiratory protection program and helps reduce the risk of illness, injury, and regulatory non-compliance.

Under Alberta OHS requirements, fit testing should be completed when a worker is first issued a respirator and at least every two years after that, as well as whenever the respirator changes, workplace conditions change, or the worker experiences facial changes that could affect the fit.

Any tight-fitting respirator that relies on a proper facial seal should be fit-tested to make sure it provides the intended protection. This commonly includes N95 respirators, as well as many half-face and full-face respirators used in workplaces where employees may be exposed to airborne hazards such as dust, fumes, chemicals, or other harmful particles.

N95 masks are one of the most common respirators that require fit testing. They are designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles and must fit snugly over the nose and mouth to work properly. If the seal is poor, air can leak around the edges and reduce the mask’s effectiveness. Different models, styles, and even sizes of the same brand can fit workers differently, which is why fit testing is important.

Half-face and full-face respirators also need fit testing when they are used as part of a workplace respiratory protection program. In many cases, quantitative fit testing is recommended for half-face and full-face respirators because it provides a precise measurement of leakage. Qualitative fit testing is often used for N95 and certain half-face respirators, where the wearer’s ability to taste or smell a test solution helps determine whether the fit is adequate.

In general, if a worker is required to wear a tight-fitting respirator on the job, that respirator should be properly fit tested before use and retested whenever the mask type changes, workplace conditions change, or the worker experiences facial changes that could affect the seal.

Respirator Mask Fit Testing is Required Every Two Years​

WorkSafe has implemented a requirement that respirator fit testing should occur every two years for those working in heavy-duty industries.

Employers are expected to give workers appropriately fitting respirators to strictly limit exposure to hazardous airborne elements. To protect workers from dangerous airborne conditions, Rocky Mountain Mobile Hearing is here to help by providing accurate respirator fit tests.

We aim to provide reliable respirator and mask fit testing for major industries across Western Canada, in specific areas that include Calgary, Lethbridge, Red Deer, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Eastern BC. Our mobile facility services can span across Western Canada, delivering an effective, qualitative fit test for the improved safety of industrial workers. With the latest and greatest equipment in our mobile facilities and an assurance of comfort when you visit for testing, you can be guaranteed efficiency when you need mask fit testing.

We comprehensively plan your tests before you arrive, so your testing session can be completed within a couple hours. Afterward, you’ll be compliant with the stipulated WorkSafe Regulations. 

Mask fit testing is done to confirm that a respirator creates a proper seal on the wearer’s face so it can provide proper respiratory protection when workers are exposed to airborne hazards. Rocky Mountain offers fit testing in Calgary through on-site services, with both qualitative testing and quantitative fit testing available depending on the type of respiratory protective equipment being used. Quantitative fit testing uses a Quantifit machine to measure mask leakage and is commonly used for half-face and full-face respirators, while qualitative fit testing relies on taste detection and is typically suited to N95 and half-face masks.

During respirator fit testing, the goal is to achieve an acceptable fit testing result for the exact respirator being worn. That means the fit test looks at the specific make, model, and size to determine whether the worker has a proper seal and whether the mask is suitable for the job. In some cases, this may involve testing a manufacturer’s medium model, while in others a worker may attend with their own mask if that is the respirator required by the employer. Because every face is different, successful fit tests depend on finding the right mask fit rather than assuming one model works for everyone.

Rocky Mountain also emphasizes mobile mask testing rather than a traditional clinic appointment.  They provide on-site services across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Eastern BC, which allows employers to arrange mask fit test services at the worksite with less disruption to daily operations. After the testing is completed, employees receive a mask fit test certificate in a wallet-sized format, giving them documentation that the fit test was completed and recorded.

In short, mask fit testing is about confirming that workers have the right respirator, the right fit, and the right level of protection before entering environments where proper respiratory protection matters most. Whether the process involves qualitative fit testing or quantitative fit testing, the purpose is the same: to support safe use of respiratory protective equipment and help workers obtain documented, acceptable,
and successful fit tests.