Qualitative fit test

Figure 6.16 Qualitative fit testing is performed every time a mask is repaired or new mask is used (University of Wisconsin, 40-honr OSHA training, 1991). 

Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitatively or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual. (See also Qualitative fit test QLFT and Quantitative fit test QNFT.)... 

Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of respirator fit that relies on the individual s response to the test agent. 

The employer shall ensure that employees using a tight-fitting face-piece respirator pass an appropriate qualitative fit test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test (QNFT) as stated in this paragraph. 

If the test subject is unable to correctly identify the jar containing the odortest solution, the lAA qualitative fit test shall not be performed. 

Bitrex (Denatonium Benzoate) Solution Aerosol Qualitative Fit Test Protocol... 

This qualitative fit test uses a person s response to the irritating chemicals released in the smoke produced by a stannic chloride ventilation smoke tube to detect leakage into the respirator. 

Explain the difference between quantitative fit testing (QNFT) and a qualitative fit testing (QLFT) of a respirator. 

There are two types of fit tests qualitative fit tests (QLFT) and quantitative fit tests (QNFT). Both tests must be administered using an OSHA-accepted QLFT or QNFT protocol. The OSHA-accepted QLFT and QNFT protocols and procedmes are contained in Appendix A of 29 CFR 1910.134. 

Qualitative fit tests (QLFT).PPE — Respiratory Protection — Respirator Fit Testing... 

A qualitative fit test (QLFT) uses an agent that can be detected if there is a leak in the seal of the respirator mask. A quantitative fit test (QNFT) actually measures the ratio of the agent or contaminant outside the respirator mask and the amount that leaks into the mask through the seal on the face piece. The company must establish a record of the QLFT or QNFT administered to employees, including... 

A. Qualitative Fit-Testing (QLFT) may be used to fit test negative pressure air-purifying respirators, if they will only be used in atmospheres less than ten times the PEL, since existing evidence only validates the QLFT protocols listed in Appendix A to identify respirators that achieve a fit factor of 100. 

TSI PortaCount Pro and Pro+ quantitative fit testers eliminate the guesswork associated with tedious and error-prone qualitative fit test methods. No other fit tester can quantitatively fit test all types of respirators - gas masks, SCBAs, respirators, even N95 disposable respirators. TSI s PortaCount measures actual fit to ensure you have the best fit possible and is OSHA-compliant. TSI, www.tsi.com/ihpc, 800-874-2811. Circle 352... 

All respirators that rely on a mask-to-face seal need to be annually checked with either qualitative or quantitative methods to determine whether the mask provides an acceptable fit to a wearer. The qualitative fit test procedures rely on a subjective sensation (taste, irritation, smell) of the respirator wearer to a particular test agent while the quantitative use measuring instruments to measure face-seal leakage. The relative workplace exposure level determines what constitutes an acceptable fit and which fit test procedure is required. 

Can a qualitatively fit-tested tight-fitting negative pressure air-purifying respirator be used in an atmosphere greater than 10 times the permissible exposure limit (PEL) ... 

What negative-pressure respirators may be fit-tested with a qualitative fit test (QLFT) ... 

One should note that odor detection is different for each individual, depending on time of the year and humidity. The subsection on quantitative and qualitative fit testing will discuss odor detection. 

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