we are left with respirator fit testing, whether qualitative or quantitative, playing the role as a means of obtaining the best possible fit of a given respirator on a given person at a given time.
We should not make any representation as to the ultimate efficiency in the workplace.[1]
In 1990, another noted respirator expert stated the following regarding one qualitative fit test (QLFT) that has been widely-used in the 1980s:
If a person wearing a respirator in an atmosphere containing the airborne sodium saccharin particles detects the penetration of the sodium saccharin particles by taste, then the respirator is declared to have failed the test. OSHA has listed this test in several hazardous substance stan- dards including those for respirator fitting test. However, evidence has been uncovered recently during the proceedings of an ANSI sucommittee (sic) on respirator fit testing that there may be insufficient data to validate the adequacy of this respirator fitting test. 81 Previously in 1981, Revoir had expressed serious reservations regarding the saccha- rin and other qualitative fit tests proposed to OSHA:82 OSHA should not promulgate a rule making to permit employers to use the isoamyl acetate vapor and the protocol for this test for selecting specific makes and model of negative pressure type respirators for assignment of lead aerosols unless the faults in the protocol are eliminated. Eliminating these faults should not be a difficult task....3 OSHA should not promulgate an interim rule to permit the use of QLFT which uses the saccha rin aerosol as the test agent until more work has been carried out to eliminate problems associat. ed with the saccharin aerosol. . . . 84 Before OSHA promulgates an interim rule to permit the use of the saccharin aerosol QLFT by employers who must comply with the provisions of the OSHA Standard on Occupation Exposure to Lead, OSHA has the obligation of assuring that any problems associated with the size of the saccharin aerosol particles in the test atmospheres are resolved.
Revoir, W. H.: Comments on OSHA's Proposal to Modify Existing Provisions for Controlling Employee Exposure to Toxic Substances Found in 29 CFR 1910.1000(3) and 29 CFR 1910.134(a)(1). Comments submitted to OSHA (May 30, 1990), p. 14. "Revoir, W. H.: Comments Concerning Respirator Fit Testing, statement made at the OSHA Informal Public Hearing on Respirator Fit Testing, Washington, D.C. (September 23, 1981), pp. 11-22. 84 Tbid., p. 14. Ibid., p. 18.
85Ibid., p. 20.
- ↑ Pritchard, J. A: Open Forum: Respirator Testing—Old Values, Ind. Safety and Hyg. News (May 1989).
