Technical Bulletin December, 2020
Similar-Fit Model Pairings of 3M Filtering Facepiece Respirators Background Currently, there is an unprecedented demand for respirators, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, fit test supplies are constrained. Employers need to consider the fit characteristics of each respirator model when respirator availability changes. Certain pairs of 3M respirator models have similar fit characteristics. Within specified respirator model pairings listed in Table 1, a fit test outcome for the model in column A can help predict the fit test outcome for the model(s) in column B.
Fit Testing Regulations In many countries, regulations require that each worker be fit tested on an assigned respirator before it is worn for the first time. Fit testing is an important practice that can help confirm that a respirator model fits a wearer well and seals to the wearer’s face, thereby directing inhaled air through the filter. Often, regulatory agencies require that a fit test must be conducted for each new respirator model worn by an employee. It is always important to understand and comply with all applicable local and country regulatory requirements that govern the selection and use of respirators.
Selecting Alternate Models of Filtering Facepiece Respirator (FFR) Many employers facing supply challenges have needed to consider incorporating new FFR models into their respiratory protection programs, based on respirator availability during the pandemic. For example, in healthcare, some organizations have incorporated standard FFRs where they formerly standardized their inventories to only surgical FFRs. Some organizations are anticipating additional variability in which respirator models will be available going forward, as the pandemic continues to impact respirator production. Employers considering incorporating additional respirator models into their respiratory protection program may want to identify models that are similar in construction to the ones familiar to their employees. When respirators and fit testing supplies are constrained or not available, it may be preferred to provide a respirator with similar construction and fit characteristics, rather than providing a “non-similar” model. Laboratory testing indicates that some limited pairs of 3M respirator models with similar construction may be more likely to fit a worker similarly. For example: