What test determines if a respirator fits properly on a user?

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Ensuring a respirator seals properly against the face is essential to keep harmful fumes and particles from leaking in. A fit test is the process that checks whether the facepiece actually seals well on the wearer’s face and prevents air leaks during movements and talking. During a fit test, the wearer performs various actions while the test measures leakage—either by a taste/odor cue in qualitative tests or with instruments that quantify leakage in quantitative tests. Passing the fit test means the chosen respirator size and style provides the necessary protection for that user under real use conditions. A seal check is something done before each use to confirm the mask is seated correctly, but it doesn’t replace a formal fit test. A breath test or a broad pressure test isn’t the standard method used to determine overall fit.