Did you know? We can come to you for corporate On-Site (mobile) quantitative fit testing.
Respirators only work as well as they fit. Whether your employees work in construction, HazMat, manufacturing, firefighting, or any environment with hazardous airborne exposures, a proper respirator fit test isn’t optional — it’s required.
Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, all employees who wear tight-fitting respirators must receive a fit test prior to initial use and annually thereafter. The fit test ensures the respirator creates an effective seal, performs as intended, and protects workers from dangerous contaminants.
At CNS Occupational Medicine, we make this compliance step fast, accurate, and convenient — in our clinics or directly at your facility. We offer both Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT) and Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT) to meet OSHA requirements across every industry.
What Is Respirator Fit Testing?
Respirator fit testing confirms that a tight-fitting respirator correctly seals to an employee’s face. A proper fit ensures protection from hazardous airborne particles, chemicals, vapors, and other respiratory dangers. Fit testing also verifies:
- The correct respirator size and model
- That the respirator performs properly under real-world movement
- That the employee can safely rely on the respirator during work
All respirators require medical clearance — services we offer in all CNS Occupational Medicine clinics.
The Two OSHA-Approved Fit Testing Methods
OSHA approves two types of respirator fit testing: Quantitative and Qualitative. Both meet compliance requirements, but they serve different purposes depending on the risk level and respirator type.
Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT): The Most Accurate and Reliable Method
Quantitative Fit Testing uses advanced equipment to measure the exact amount of leakage into the respirator. It provides a numeric fit factor and removes all subjectivity from the test.
Our Technology: The Quantifit2
CNS Occupational Medicine proudly uses the Quantifit2, the most advanced respiratory fit testing device available. It provides:
- The highest level of accuracy in the industry
- Testing in under 3 minutes
- Results that detect even microscopic leaks
- Compatibility with all tight-fitting respirators, including full-face masks and SCBA
- OSHA, NFPA, and ANSI-compliant testing
- No odors, chemicals, or taste exposure
- Ideal reliability for firefighters, first responders, HazMat, oil & gas, and heavy industrial workers
We test:
- Elastomeric respirators (full-face & half-mask)
- SCBA and SAR respirators
- APR and ASR systems
- Combination SAR/SCBA
- HEPA, P-, R-, and more filters
Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT): A Simple Pass/Fail Method
Qualitative Fit Testing relies on the employee’s sense of taste, smell, or irritation to detect leaks. It is a pass/fail test often used for:
- N95s and filtering facepiece respirators
- Healthcare professionals
- Lab workers
- General industry settings
This method still meets OSHA 1910.134 requirements where permitted, but it’s not allowed for all respirator types or high-hazard environments.
Quantitative vs. Qualitative Fit Testing: Which Is Right for You?
Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT)
Pros:
- Most accurate method available
- Provides measurable results (fit factor score)
- Required for full-face and SCBA respirators in many industries
- No odors or irritants used
- Fast — under 3 minutes per test
- Suitable for high-risk, high-hazard jobs
Cons:
- Requires specialized equipment
- Slightly higher cost per test
Note: all respirators require medical clearance.
Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT)
Pros:
- Simple and low-cost
- Meets OSHA requirements for disposable respirators (like N95s)
- Easy to perform for large groups
- Good for low-to-moderate risk workplaces
Cons:
- Pass/fail only — no numerical accuracy
- Relies on the employee’s senses, which can be subjective
- Not permitted for many respirator types (full-face, SCBA, etc.)
- Less reliable in high-hazard environments
Note: all respirators require medical clearance.
Who Needs Respirator Fit Testing?
Any employee required to wear a tight-fitting respirator must be tested annually. Common industries include:
- Firefighters and EMTs
- Police and first responders
- HazMat and confined space teams
- Construction & demolition
- Industrial manufacturing
- Chemical & petrochemical
- Healthcare and laboratory
- Oil, gas, and energy sector
- Public works, utilities, and waste management
- Mining, welding, and heavy equipment operations
Our Testing Options: In-Clinic or On-Site — Your Choice
We make respirator fit testing easy for businesses of all sizes:
Testing in Our Clinics
No long wait times, quick scheduling, and all physical exams or clearances can be completed at the same visit.
On-Site Corporate Testing
We come to your facility and can test your entire staff in a single day or over several days — ideal for:
- Fire departments
- Construction sites
- Industrial plants
- Utility crews
- Manufacturing facilities
Our mobile teams bring everything needed for efficient, compliant fit testing.
How to Get Quantitative Fit Testing With CNS Occupational Medicine
Getting started is simple:
1. Schedule a Fit Test or On-Site Visit
Call our experts to make sure we can point you to the right type of test. Choose in-clinic or On-Site testing.
2. Determine Whether a Medical Clearance or Physical Is Needed
Some respirators (especially full-face, SCBA, and certain elastomeric masks) require clearance first — we can handle this for you.
3. Complete Your Fit Test
Our team performs the QNFT or QLFT according to OSHA standards using the latest technology.
4. Receive Documentation for OSHA Compliance
Each employee receives required documentation and proof of fit.
Protect Your Team. Stay Compliant. Breathe Safely.
With the advanced Quantifit2, mobile convenience, and experienced medical staff, CNS Occupational Medicine delivers the most accurate, reliable, and compliant respirator fit testing available today.
Whether you need testing for one employee or your entire department, we’re here to help.
Ready to schedule your respirator fit testing?
Contact our medical team at 800.551.9816 or info@cnsoccmed.com.
