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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/osha-ppe-respirator-fit-test-annual

How often must a worker with a tight-fitting respirator be fit tested?

Before first use, with any new facepiece, and at least once a year.

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  1. Once in a career
  2. Every five years
  3. Before first use and at least annually ✔

Why: A respirator only protects if it seals to your face. OSHA requires fit testing before first use, whenever a different size, style, model or make is used, and at least annually.

Huh, didn't know that: A qualitative fit test is pass or fail based on whether you sense the test agent; a quantitative test measures leakage.

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What's a pirate's favorite safety gear? An arrr-spirator.
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References

Answer: Before first use and at least annually. A respirator only protects if it seals to your face. OSHA requires fit testing before first use, whenever a different size, style, model or make is used, and at least annually.

  1. 29 CFR 1910.134 Respiratory protection (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1910.134
    fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece ... is used, and at least annually thereafter
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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