Can respirator fit testing be completed at a remote project site?
Yes. Clear Work travels to project sites throughout British Columbia, including locations well outside the Lower Mainland, and completes testing on location.
Case Study ·
Clear Work
25 Respirator Fit Tests for Macro Pipelines in Hope, BC
Clear Work completed 25 respirator fit tests on site at a pipeline project in Hope.
Project Snapshot
Client
Macro Pipelines
Industry
Pipeline Construction
Location
Hope, British Columbia
Service
Qualitative Respirator Fit Testing
Workers Tested
25
Testing Method
Qualitative fit testing (hood method)
Completed In
One on-site visit
Clear Work Team
Noah
About the Client
Macro Pipelines was working on a pipeline project near Hope, British Columbia, where crews work around welding fumes, dust and other airborne contaminants.
A respirator only protects when it seals against the wearer's face, and the same model can fit one worker and not another. Fit testing confirms that seal for each person.
The Challenge
What the organization was facing
Sending 25 workers to off-site appointments would have meant travel, shift scheduling and lost time on an active project in a remote location.
The goal: confirm every worker's respirator fits, without stopping the job.
Our Solution
Clear Work technician Noah arrived at the Hope site with one of our mobile units and qualitative fit testing equipment, testing workers in groups around the work front.
25 workers were fit tested using the hood method, with Noah explaining what was being checked and why the seal matters. Workers went straight back to their duties, and no one travelled off site.
What was included:
- On-site qualitative fit testing at the Hope project, using the hood method for 25 workers.
- One of our mobile units and equipment brought to the location, with scheduling around the project's operations.
- Explanation of the process and why an effective seal matters.
- Documentation for each worker tested.
The Results
What we delivered
Testing location: Pipeline project site near Hope, BC
Worker travel required: None
Completed in one visit: Yes
Client feedback: 5-star Google review the same day
Off-site appointments: None
Client Testimonial
“Very detailed and professional. He took the time to explain what he was doing, why each step was important, and especially the importance of getting a proper seal on the respirator. He was thorough, knowledgeable, and made sure everything was done properly instead of just rushing through the test. Great experience overall and I’d definitely recommend him.”
— Adam D., 5-star Google review
Why This Approach Worked
Mobile fit testing brings the testing to the crew, so no individual appointments are needed.
It also leaves time to explain the test and confirm the seal properly, because a rushed pass does not give confidence.
Benefits for Similar Businesses
Clear Work provides mobile respirator fit testing for pipeline and general construction, industrial maintenance, utilities, municipal operations, manufacturing and forestry.
Testing is completed on site throughout British Columbia, including the Fraser Valley, the Fraser Canyon and communities further into the Interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a fit test take per worker?
Typically 10 to 15 minutes per worker, depending on the respirator and the individual.
Can workers have facial hair during a fit test?
No. Workers must be clean-shaven where the respirator seals, because facial hair prevents an effective seal and a successful test.
How many workers can be tested in one visit?
Testing days are planned around crew size, shift patterns and the available window on site. Larger groups can be scheduled across a longer visit or multiple days.
When does respirator fit testing need to be repeated?
Fit testing should be repeated whenever a different make, model, style or size of respirator is introduced, and when facial changes could affect the seal. Employers should also follow the requirements of their own respiratory protection program and applicable WorkSafeBC requirements.
What is involved in a qualitative fit test?
The worker wears their respirator under a hood while a harmless test agent is introduced and they talk, turn their head and bend over. If they cannot detect the agent throughout, the respirator is sealing effectively.