Some jobs require the use of respirators. Examples include firefighters, those who work in confined spaces like sandblasters, those who use spray paints like body shop employees, and those exposed to various gases or hazardous materials. Respiratory Certifications can completed when the employee fills out a simple questionniare and the questionnaire is examined by our occupational health nurse and nurse practitioner. Sometimes further examination may be necessary. Respirator fit testing is conducted to ensure the specific respirator used by the employee is functional and the employee is trained in its use. The fit test looks for exactly that--does it fit the employee and does it work properly?

There are essentially 3 parts to a good Respiratory Protection Program.

	Respirator Certification All employees who wear any type of respirator--even if it's a paper dust mask--must be medically-certified to wear the respirator. The employee completes a simple questionnaire based on the type of respirator to be worn (half face or full face). The questionnaire is then reviewed by a healthcare provider qualified to grant the certification. Certifications are typically valid for two years. Download the Certification Form here. Download the Full Face Questionnaire here. Download the Half Face Questionnaire here.
	Pulmonary Function Test (Spirometry) This is a test of the patient's lung function and lung capacity. It's a great test for determining how well an employee may work in environments where smoke, fumes and other irritants may be present. The baseline test can also be compared to an exit test. Download the Worksheet here.
	Respirator Fit Test Required for EVERY employee who wears a respirator, or potentially could wear a respirator (such as for escape purposes). There are two types of fit tests: Qualitative and Quantitative. The Qualitative test is used for half-face masks and can be conducted with saccharin, smoke or bitrex. The Quantitative test is used for full face masks and HealthWorks uses the Portacount Fit Testing machine. The machine measures the particulate in the ambient (outside) air and compares it to the particulate measured inside the mask, to achieve a minimum ratio. This measures how well the mask fits and how well the filters keep out gases and fumes. This test is required for full face masks and can also be used for half face masks. Fit tests are typically valid for one year. Download the Fit Test  Form here.

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