Fit Testing Perth: Respiratory and Hearing Protection
Summary
Environmental Site Services (ENVSS) specialises in quantitative fit testing for both respiratory and hearing protection equipment. Ensuring a correct fit for these devices is not just a regulatory requirement but a critical step in safeguarding the health and safety of employees from hazardous conditions across various industries. Common industries we deal with include construction, mining, healthcare and manufacturing.
Here we outline the importance of proper fit testing, our services surrounding fit testing, and how ENVSS can help your organisation comply with Australian health and safety standards.
What Is Fit Testing?
Fit testing is a critical process that determines if the personal protective equipment (PPE) fits the user properly. A good fit means the equipment can provide maximum protection against harmful substances and noise, minimising health risks. There are two main types of fit testing:
- Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT): This method is subjective, relying on the user’s sensory detection to determine fit.
- Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT): This objective method uses instruments to measure leakage and ensure precise fitting, thus offering a more reliable assessment.
ENVSS employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to deliver precise and reliable fit testing results, ensuring optimal protection and compliance with Australian Standards AS/NZS 1715 for respiratory equipment and AS/NZS 1269.3 for hearing protectors.
Types of Fit Testing We Offer
- Fit Testing
Mask and Hearing Fit Test Bundle
- $110.00
- A comprehensive package for workplaces requiring both respiratory and hearing protection assessments. New Australian standards have made fit testing mandatory for respiratory protection equipment (AS/NZS 1715:2009) and hearing protection (AS/NZ 1269.3:2005). Precise and well documented testing is now pivotal in maintaining your safety records and compliance, as well as the safety of your employees. In a two part, 30 minute…
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- Fit Testing
Hearing Protection Fit Test
- $77.00
- Hearing protection fit testing provides a quantitative assessment of your employees’ earplugs and earmuffs, ensuring that they meet Australian safety standards. ENVSS’ hearing protection fit testing is a 10-minute test capable of testing both earplugs and earmuffs. It utilises quantitative testing methods to achieve objective results, rather than relying on the subjective responses of employees. Testing at seven standard frequencies…
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- Fit Testing
Respirator Mask Fit Test
- $77.00
- Fit testing for N95, 3M, disposable, half-face, full-face, and SCBA masks using quantitative methods to ensure. compliance with Australian standards. A perfect fit is crucial in ensuring that Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) provides optimal protection. Poor fitting equipment will cause leakages of contaminants into the breathing zone and compromise the health and safety of the wearer. It is now a…
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Mask Fit Testing: Includes a range of tests for N95, 3M, disposable, half-face, full-face, and SCBA masks, ensuring a secure seal to protect against airborne contaminants.
Hearing Protection Fit Testing: Verifies that earplugs and earmuffs offer adequate noise reduction according to the specific environmental conditions of the workplace.
Mask and Hearing Protection Fit Test Bundle: A comprehensive package for workplaces requiring both respiratory and hearing protection assessments.
Why is RPE and Hearing Fit Testing Important?
Correctly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial in preventing exposure to airborne contaminants and hazardous noise levels. Inadequate fitting can lead to exposure that may compromise health and safety, making fit testing an essential practice not just for compliance, but for ensuring workplace safety and worker well-being.
Consequences of Inadequate Fit
An improper fit can allow dangerous substances or noise to bypass the protective barriers of masks and earplugs, leading to potential health issues.
Without proper fit testing, workers and/or your organisation may face:
Increased risk of respiratory diseases from inhaling toxic substances.
Potential hearing loss or degradation due to inadequate noise protection.
Legal and compliance issues, including penalties and fines for failing to meet workplace safety standards.
Regular fit testing helps in maintaining the integrity of the protective equipment and ensuring that all personnel are adequately protected under all conditions.
Who Requires Fit Testing?
Fit testing is mandatory for employees who use tight-fitting respirators or hearing protection in sectors such as healthcare, construction, and mining. It’s also required for any personnel working in environments with hazardous airborne particles or high noise levels.
How Often is Fit Testing Required?
Fit testing should be conducted:
Before the first use of the respirator or earplugs.
Annually.
Whenever there is a change in the wearer’s facial characteristics.
After any significant weight change, facial surgery, or scarring.
ENVSS Fit Testing in Perth
We come to you
Our fit testing can be conducted onsite with our fully equipped mobile service, enabling us to bring our testing facilities directly to your workplace.
This option provides convenience and ensures minimal disruption to your daily operations.
You come to us
Additionally, for those in the Perth area, we have a dedicated facility equipped with advanced testing technologies and a controlled environment for precise fit assessments.
Whether at your site or ours, we guarantee a fast and reliable service aimed to get your workers on site in a safe manner.
Fit Testing Process
Our fit testing process is designed to ensure that all respirators and hearing protection equipment meet stringent safety standards. The process includes:
Detailed Assessment: Utilising the latest quantitative fit testing technology, such as the PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester, we measure actual facepiece leakage to determine the protection level each mask provides. This method offers an accurate and reliable assessment of the fit.
Proper Equipment Use Training: We provide hands-on training for all users, instructing them on how to properly wear and adjust their protective equipment to achieve the best possible fit. This training also covers the proper maintenance and care of the equipment to extend its usability.
Comprehensive Reporting: After the fit test, we provide detailed reports that document the fit factor and the overall effectiveness of the respirator or hearing protection. This documentation is crucial for compliance with occupational health and safety regulations and helps businesses maintain their safety records.
Any Questions? Get in Touch
For more information on our fit testing services or to schedule a session, please contact Environmental Site Services. Our team is ready to assist you in ensuring that your protective equipment meets all safety standards and is correctly fitted to your workers.