Quantitative Respirator Fit Testing
Get a compliant, instrument-measured fit test for disposable, half-face and full-face respirators.
Quantitative fit testing checks whether a tight-fitting respirator forms an effective seal against the wearer’s face. The test uses specialised equipment to measure leakage and confirm whether the selected respirator provides an appropriate fit.
Book a quantitative respirator fit test with Southland for compatible disposable, half-face and full-face respirators.
Quantitative Respirator Fit Testing
A respirator can only provide effective protection when it fits the wearer correctly. Quantitative fit testing uses specialised equipment to measure leakage around the face seal and produces a numerical result known as a fit factor.
Testing may be suitable for:
Disposable respirators
Reusable half-face respirators
Full-face respiratorsWhat’s Included in Your Fit Test?
PDF Fit Test Certificate
After a successful fit test, you’ll receive a digital PDF record of your result.
Wallet-Sized Fit Test Card
You’ll also receive a physical card that is easy to carry and present when required.
Free Re-Test if You Do Not Pass
If your respirator test is unsuccessful, we can retest you at no additional charge.
Annual Fit Test Reminder
We’ll send you a reminder one month before your next annual fit test is due.
Testing for Multiple Respirators
You can be tested in more than one respirator. Each additional respirator test must be booked and paid for separately.
Quantitative vs Qualitative Fit Testing
Quantitative Fit Testing
- Quantitative fit testing uses an instrument to measure leakage and provides a numerical result.
- Quantitative testing can be used for compatible half-face and full-face respirators.
Qualitative Fit Testing
- Qualitative fit testing is a pass-or-fail method that relies on the wearer detecting a test substance through taste or smell.
How to Prepare
Before your appointment:
- Be clean-shaven where the respirator seals against your face
- Bring your usual respirator if requested
- Bring any safety glasses, goggles or other PPE worn with the respirator
Facial hair or stubble around the sealing surface can affect the test result.
Who Needs Fit Testing?
Fit testing is recommended for workers who use tight-fitting respirators to protect against airborne hazards such as silica dust, asbestos, welding fumes, chemicals and infectious particles.
Because facial shapes vary, each wearer should be tested with the specific respirator make, model and size they intend to use.
When Should Fit Testing Be Repeated?
Fit testing should generally be completed:
Before first using a tight-fitting respirator
At least once every 12 months
When changing respirator make, model, style or size
After significant facial or weight changes
Whenever the respirator no longer appears to fit correctly
We Have Accredited RESP-FIT Testers
See How Quantitative Fit Testing Works
Watch a short overview of the quantitative respirator fit testing process and see what to expect during your appointment.