How should PAPRs and positive-pressure respirators be fit-tested?

• A. Not required to be fit-tested.
• B. Test PAPRs and positive-pressure respirators in the negative pressure mode, using either qualitative or quantitative method.
• C. Only qualitative method.
• D. Only quantitative method.

Answer: (B)

Testing a tight-fitting respirator is about confirming the face seal so that air is drawn through the filter, not around the face. For powered air-purifying respirators and other positive-pressure respirators with a tight-fitting facepiece, fit testing is done in negative-pressure mode. This creates a pressure difference that tends to pull air in through any gaps, making leaks easier to detect and ensuring the seal is truly protective in real use. You can use either qualitative methods (taste or smell of a test agent) or quantitative methods (instrumentation that measures the actual fit factor) for the test. Either approach is acceptable, as both reliably assess whether the wearer would be protected. Note that loose-fitting PAPRs (like hoods) don’t require fit testing because they don’t rely on a face seal.