If workers must wear tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE) while at work, respirator fit testing is required to comply with the AS/NZS 1715:2009.
There are two primary methods of fit testing - quantitative and qualitative.
While both methods are valid, we've noticed that the qualitative fit testing method gets slammed like a piece of meat in a kookaburra's beak.
But we're here to stick up for the underdog.
In this article, we'll discuss what qualitative fit testing is (including pros/cons), affirm its validity, and explain why it's often a more cost-effective and accessible method for some workplaces.
What is Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT)?
A mask fit test - whether qualitative or quantitative - assesses whether a tight-fitting respirator provides an adequate seal to the wearer’s face. Both methods use a challenge agent to determine if tiny particles are leaking around the facepiece and into the wearer's breathing zone.
Qualitative fit testing is a pass/fail test method that relies on the wearer’s sensory response to detect a test agent (challenge agent) during the assessment. It is typically conducted with strong tasting substances such as:
Saccharin (sweet taste)
Bitrex (bitter taste)
During a qualitative fit test, the person being tested puts on their respirator and a hood while a test agent, such as a bitter or sweet aerosol, is sprayed under the hood. The wearer performs a series of exercises like turning their head, talking, or bending over to simulate workplace conditions. If the wearer detects the taste of the test agent during any of the exercises, this indicates that the respirator has a poor seal and the test is a fail.
For comparison, a quantitative fit test uses a machine - such as an AccuFit or PortaCount - to calculate an objective, numerical 'fit factor.' The challenge agent for quantitative fit testing is the ambient air in the testing area.
Is Qualitative Fit Testing a Valid Method?
Yes, it absolutely is.
All major international fit testing standards, including ISO 16975-3, AS/NZS 1715:2009, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, CSA Z94.4, and HSE, acknowledge qualitative fit testing as a valid method.
Qualitative fit testing can be used to test filtering facepiece respirators (e.g. disposable N95/P2 masks) and half-face respirators. Full face respirators must be tested using a quantitative fit test method.
Don’t be discouraged by claims that qualitative fit testing isn’t approved or isn’t the “gold standard.” As long as a competent person conducts the test, choosing qualitative over quantitative testing is a valid and recognized option for filtering facepiece and reusable half-face respirators.
Pros and Cons of Qualitative Fit Testing
A big pro of qualitative fit testing is that it can be easily implemented if you want to do your own in-house fit testing.
For many in rural or remote areas, or those without easy access to quantitative fit testing (in-house or outsourced), qualitative testing is often the only practical choice.
The cost of quantitative fit testing equipment can be prohibitive—machines can cost up to $34,000, with annual calibration fees running into the thousands. It’s simply not feasible for everyone.
On the other hand, the price of a qualitative fit test kit (hood, nebulizers, test solutions) is ~$500. You can conduct around 150 fit tests per bottle of solution.
We believe it's inappropriate—particularly for RESP-FIT accredited testers—to dismiss the qualitative method or undermine those who choose to use it. Unless AS/NZS 1715 or ISO 16975 deem qualitative fit testing invalid, it remains a legitimate method globally.
We acknowledge that there are cons of qualitative fit testing:
Subjective and relies on the user's sensory perceptions
Not as accurate as quantitative fit testing
Typically takes longer than a quantitative fit test
Some may have sensitivities to the test solutions
Can not be used to test full-face respirators - only half-face and filtering facepiece masks
If you have high staff turnover, need to conduct fit testing frequently, operate in a remote area, or lack access to quantitative equipment due to cost or availability, qualitative fit testing can be a practical and effective solution.
What Fit Test Victoria Thinks
We believe that if it’s feasible to conduct quantitative fit testing instead of qualitative, then quantitative is typically provides more accurate and reliable results.
That said, if you’ve carefully considered the pros and cons and determined that qualitative fit testing is the best option for your organization, rest assured—it’s a valid and effective choice when done correctly by a competent fit tester.
To ensure the highest level of accuracy with qualitative fit testing, the person conducting the tests must be properly trained and competent in this method. To help with this, 3M developed an app called 'Wear it Right' to help with compliance and record keeping.
At Fit Test Victoria, we can teach you how to to competently conduct qualitative fit testing. Click here to learn more about our course.
If you're interested in implementing qualitative fit testing at your workplace, give us a call on 0488 688 454 or email info@fittestvic.com.au
And if you've decided to go with quantitative mask fit testing, we've got you covered with 2 offices in Melbourne and onsite fit testing at your workplace. We also teach courses in quantitative fit testing if you're thinking of doing that method in-house.
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