Which respirators must be fit-tested and by which method, per asbestos standard?

• A. Only half-face masks require fit-testing.
• B. Fit-testing is not required for respirators used in asbestos work.
• C. All tight-fitting respirators must be fit-tested at initial and annually; PAPRs and positive-pressure respirators may be fit-tested by either method.
• D. Only full-face respirators require qualitative testing.

Answer: (C)

Respirators used in asbestos work must seal properly against the face to prevent fiber entry, so tight-fitting respirators are subject to fit-testing. All tight-fitting respirators, such as half-face and full-face pieces, must be fit-tested before first use and at least annually thereafter (and whenever there are changes to the wearer’s facial characteristics). The fit test can be done using either method: qualitative testing, which relies on the wearer detecting a test agent by taste, smell, or irritation, or quantitative testing, which uses instruments to measure leakage and provides a numerical fit factor. In addition, PAPRs and other positive-pressure respirators may be fit-tested by either method according to the standard.