Fit Testing Methods

QuantitativeFit Testing

Produces an objective, numerical fit factor by measuring actual particle concentrations inside and outside the respirator
Results are automatically recorded and stored, creating a defensible audit trail
Completes a full test in approximately 2.5 minutes using the Fast OSHA 2019 Protocol
Required for full-face respirators and the only method that can test N95 and disposable respirators

An OSHA-permitted method for half-face respirators that uses a challenge agent such as saccharine to determine pass or fail
Lower upfront equipment cost makes it accessible for programs with limited budgets
Results are completely subjective and depend on the test subject's ability to detect the challenge agent, producing a pass or fail notation rather than a measured value
Testing takes approximately 20 minutes per person and requires manual record keeping

Criteria	Quantitative	Qualitative
Output Type	Objective numerical fit factor	Pass or fail notation only
Best Environments	All respirator programs and industries	Half-face respirator programs only
Time to Administer	Approximately 2.5 minutes per test	Approximately 20 minutes per test
Compliance/Documentation	Defensible, automatically stored records	Manual written notation only
Recommended Devices	AccuFit, AccuFit PRO	Third-party qualitative test kits