Top Things You Might Not Know When Having Your First Respirator Fit Test Done
If you work in a potentially hazardous industry, then you might have to wear a respirator while you're on the job. Your employer might have told you that you will have to have respirator fit testing done, and they might have let you know that it will be done soon. If it's your first time having a respirator fit test done, then you may not know what to expect. If you'd like to know what to expect, these are some of the top things that you'll probably need to be aware of.
It Should Be Paid For
For one thing, you might be nervous that you will be required to pay for the respirator fit test. This typically is not the case, since your employer should cover it for you. However, if you are an independent contractor, there might be cases in which the company that you're working with will require you to have respirator fit testing done at your own expense. This might be something you'll want to look into before the test date so that you can be prepared.
They're Done Pretty Often
Respirator fit testing is typically done at least once a year. If you have just been hired to work for a new employer, you might be required to have this testing done as a new hire. Additionally, if you gain or lose a lot of weight or if you notice that you don't think your respirator fits like it's supposed to, you might need to have additional testing done, even if you would not normally be required to have a respirator fit test done any time soon.
You Should Wear All of Your Safety Gear
Other safety gear that you might have to wear at the same time as your respirator, such as safety goggles or glasses, can impact the way that your respirator fits. Therefore, you should make sure that you wear all of your normal safety gear while you are having respirator fit testing done.
Testing Should Not Take Long
If you're worried that getting respirator fit testing done is going to be a long and drawn process, you should know that this usually is not the case at all. Typically, testing only takes about 15 or 20 minutes, so you will be able to get back to work in no time, and you'll know that you're wearing a properly fitting respirator to protect yourself when you do.
For more information about respirator fit testing, contact a local company, like FitTick.
