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SCBA Mask fit testing

Fit testing is required for all interior FF. My question is does each members personal mask need to be fit tested or can the members be fit tested on test masks (different sizes) and then be provided with a new mask when it comes in?

I cannot find anything that tells me that each mask issued to a specific FF needs to be fit tested to that FF. I would think that this is the case but my department has a different opinion.

We are in the process of purchasing new Scott air packs and masks. We have 3 test masks small, medium and large. All interior FF are being fit tested with one of these masks. After fit testing is completed the correct size masks will be ordered for all FF and issued to them.

Should we not be testing the mask the FF will be operating with?

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Permalink Reply by Bobby Halton on August 27, 2012 at 4:36pm

Ted, I have always used the standard large medium small samples to test then provided the members with their personal one for use. It is how we conduct the testing at FDIC also. I would perfer to have the individual masks but it is not required to the best of my knowledge.

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Permalink Reply by Ted R. Kolb on August 28, 2012 at 12:16am

Bobby, your answer is most likely correct. I did find a reference to the 3 sizes from a fit testing group.

It just seems rational to me to test the individual mask the FF will be operating with. Manufacturing errors do crop up in many products we us. I guess we just have to get through the first year with the new masks and then yearly fit testing will start.

When we do yearly fit testing the FF’s personal mask is used.

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