Respirator Fit-Testing

Respirators protect the wearer against exposure to airborne contaminants. They should only be used if engineering and administrative controls are insufficient to control a hazard. All respirator users must be fit-tested, a service that Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) provides free of charge to the university community.

To determine if you require a respirator, complete a hazard assessment. If you require a respirator, schedule and complete fit-testing as follows:

1. Take the Training

Complete the short Respiratory Protective Equipment  online course. The training describes the use and maintenance of a respirator.

2. Complete the Health Screening Questionnaire

Follow the steps in the online course  to fill out the health screening questionnaire.

3. Follow Email Instructions

You will receive either:

  • A request to schedule a follow-up appointment with Dominion Medical Centre (if you have a preexisting respiratory or cardiovascular condition).
  • An email from HSE to schedule a fit-test. If you require multiple types of respirators, you will need to schedule a fit-test for each.

Please keep a record of your appointment date and time.

4. Go to your Fit-test Appointment
  • Fit-testing occurs in Materials Management Building 2-10N. 
  • After the fit-test, you will receive a printout of respirator specifications.
6. Get to Work!
  • Refer to the Respirator Protection Program  for more information about respirator usage, storage and maintenance.
  • A new fit-test is required every two years or as major physical changes occur (e.g., facial or dental surgery; weight gain/loss).

Follow-up Medical Appointment

If you receive an email prompting you to contact Dominion Medical Centre for a follow-up appointment, call the clinic to schedule a consult. At the appointment, the doctor will either:

  • Clear you to wear a respirator and send an email to HSE with a clearance letter. HSE will contact you to schedule a fit-test.
  • Indicate that you should not wear a respirator for health reasons. Contact your supervisor to discuss alternate work activities.
Audience

Employees, Students

Category

Safety & Security

Cost

Free

Service Access
By appointment

Provider
VP Services & Finance