Respirator Fit Test Training Workshops - Sign Up

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Respirator fit testing is required at least annually; whenever a different size, style, model or make of respirator is used; and when any physical change occurs that could affect fit (such as, for example, significant weight fluctuation, dental work, or other facial changes), according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Under the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) as revised in 2015, there are specific requirements for handlers and applicators when organic and non-organic pesticide labels require the use of a respirator.

Handlers and applicators are employees, owners and family members who apply, load, unload, rinse pesticide application equipment, or do other tasks involving the direct handling of pesticides.

According to OSHA, your employer must provide respirators, training, and medical evaluations at no cost to the employee. Your employer must also provide a medical evaluation to determine employee’s ability to use a respirator, before fit testing and use. 

Before you and your employees can use a respirator, you must receive:

• A medical evaluation by a physician or other licensed health care professional to determine if you are physically fit to wear a respirator.
• Fit-testing with a taste/smell/irritating indicator or with quantitative measurements to determine if the respirator forms a complete seal with your face.
• Training about the use, care, and maintenance of the respirator.

Follow these steps to ensure you are in compliance with the WPS. If you are the employer:

• Review the pesticide label to determine what type(s) and under what conditions a respirator will be used.
• Determine who will be mixing, handling, loading and/or applying pesticides requiring a respirator.
• Have each person requiring respirator protection complete an OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire. Ensure the questionnaire is reviewed by a physician or licensed health care professional.
• You must allow your employee to answer this OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation questionnaire during normal working hours, or at a time and place that is convenient for the employee. To maintain their confidentiality, you (the employer or supervisor) must not look at or review your employee's answers, and you must tell your employee how to deliver or send this questionnaire to the health care professional who will review it.
• Arrange for your employee(s) to complete respirator fit testing using the same type of respirator(s) required on the label of the pesticide(s) they will be using. The employer must bring a copy of their approved medical evaluation to the respirator fit test training.
• Conduct or arrange for training on use, care and maintenance of respirators.​

Additional things to consider:
Medical clearance is only required once, unless medical problems arise or a fit test indicates a need for re-evaluation. An annual fit test is required for all tight-fitting respirators, when required by the pesticide label.
Respirator training is required annually or when workplace conditions change or a new type of respirator is used.
Records and documentation of medical clearance, fit-testing and training must be maintained for at least two years.