Back to Work Interim Toolkit
PPE
KN95 FIT TEST
Ver 1.3
August 6 , 2020
Since patients who are asymptomatic may still be COVID-19 infectious , it should be assumed that all patients can transmit disease . Treating a COVID-19 positive suspected positive patient requires you to wear a KN95 or N95 mask and you must successfully complete an OSHA certified Fit Test . If you and / or your staff choose to wear a KN95 or N95 mask for personal safety ( not knowingly treating a COVID-19 positive patient ) you aren ’ t required to complete the Fit Test . Essentially , if the KN95 or N95 masks are deemed required so is the fit test .
It is important to clarify that while OSHA has suspended the annual renewal of the Fit Test , it is still required for individuals wearing the mask for the first time to treat COVID-19 positive or suspected positive patients . The KN95 or N95 respirator fit test ensures that the individual wearing the mask is protected .
Details on the OSHA fit test process are available here .
Prior to participating in the OSHA KN95 or N95 Fit Test you will be required to complete a medical evaluation .
Due to the global shortage , KN95 masks are only available in one size . To help ensure a snugly fitting mask and to limit discomfort with wearing the KN95 or N95 masks , it is recommended that members consider wearing an ear saver , a strap that goes through the ear loops and around your head to hold the mask in place .
People with chronic respiratory , cardiac , or other medical conditions that make breathing difficult should check with their health care provider before using an N95 respirator because the N95 respirator can make it more difficult for the wearer to breathe . Wearing a KN95 or N95 mask requires a clean-shaven face .
PDA , in conjunction with Mobile Health , implemented two rounds of statewide fit testing programs . If / when the program is implemented again , PDA will promote the program to members via email and PDA Go . For a list of vetted fit test vendors please click here .
While it is recommended that you continue to wear the same make and model mask that you were fit tested with , it may not be possible due to the global shortage of PPE .
Due to the fact that the KN95 mask is only available in one size , not everyone will pass the fit test . Following are some suggestions if you fail a fit test :
1 . Use ear savers to adjust the fit of the mask .
2 . Try to find an N95 mask in a smaller size . This Back to Work Toolkit provides a list of vetted alternate PPE vendors that may have N95 masks in a variety of sizes . Contact the vendor to inquire if they sell the mask in a smaller size and if you can purchase one mask . Inform the vendor that you failed a fit test using a KN95 mask and are looking for a smaller size mask that will fit . Reassure the vendor that if the mask fits you intend to purchase a larger quantity for future need . Many vendors require bulk orders , don ’ t buy a large quantity of masks until you are certain it will fit .
3 . Purchase a different brand of the KN95 mask . A different brand of KN95 mask may have a slightly different contour to the design or padding over the nose that may provide a better fit .
NEW PPE PRESERVATION BEST PRACTICES
This fact sheet from HHS and FEMA will assist with ways to sustain PPE and ensure your protection . Read more here .
14 KN95 Fit Test