Basics 

The emergence of new infectious diseases, potential re-emergence of past diseases and ongoing threat of other respiratory hazards has highlighted the need for health and community care organizations to develop and implement formal respiratory protection programs to protect workers from infectious agents. 

This 4 hour program equips learners with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct their own qualitative fit testing (QLFT) within their own workplace as required by the legislation, and as outlined by the CSA Standard Z94.4-18, Selection, Use, & Care of Respirators. It also is specifically tailored for aerosol & bioaerosol hazards.

Who should take this course?

Developed by hygienists and infection control subject matter experts, Train the Fit Tester for Respiratory Protection Distance Learning is designed to educate and prepare learners for fit testing and the use of respiratory protection, so they will be able to fit test others within their organization. 
This training is applicable to the healthcare sector, as well as to other sectors where respiratory protection is required.
Note: This course does not certify participants to train others to be fit testers nor does it qualify participants to conduct fit testing as paid service offering. 
The course blends a theoretical eLearning component, followed by a live, online practical component and demonstration of a qualitative fit test, with a final online evaluation. 

Part 1 - eLearning Module

A 2 hour online course that covers the reasons and requirements for effective respiratory protection programs, fit testing, respirator selection, use and care for today’s healthcare environment. It includes a webinar, a demonstration video plus relevant links and tools to keep learners informed. Participants are expected to practice fit testing prior to the Part 2 – Virtual Classroom using the instructions in the Participant Workbook, job aid and videos included in this module.

Part 2 - Virtual Classroom
Learners can apply their knowledge and will be  tested on the proper donning and doffing of the N95 respirator, user seal check, comfort assessment and fit testing. An instructor will give feedback and demonstrations throughout the live synchronous session (zoom). 

Part 3 - Test & Certificate
After successfully demonstrating a fit test, the learner must take an online test (20 questions) and score 75% or higher to pass. Upon successful completion of both the practical demonstrations and online test, the learner will receive a certificate of completion. 

Course Content

This course covers:

  -  Why respiratory protection programs and fit testing are important

  -  The implications of the routes of transmission of aerosols and bioaerosols

  -  The main legislative requirements and standards related to infectious diseases and respiratory protection programs

  -  How respiratory protection fits into the context of RACE

  -  The types of particulate respirators and their selection, use, care and limitations

  -  The required elements of an effective respiratory protection program, and

  -  How to perform qualitative fit testing (QLFT)

Course Requirements

After having completed Part 1, participants will be permitted to schedule their practical session (Part 2 – Virtual Classroom). A fit-testing demonstration will only take place in the Virtual Classroom (via Zoom) during the allotted time frames provided by PSHSA.  

**Given that a partner is required during the practical session, considerations on the selection of a partner should be made according to the screening guidelines found on the Ministry of Health website. Participants are required to comply with and utilize any PPE and infection, prevention and control including any occupational health safety measures provided by their employer. Health and safety measures will also be reviewed during the practical portion at the time of the session. All mandatory materials listed below are required and will be used during the participant’s practical Zoom session with their partner.

The following material items are required prior to registering for the course and to participate in the Part 2 – Virtual Classroom:

  1.  Part 1 eLearning module has been successfully completed.
  2.  Confirmation that your workplace has a respiratory protection policy and program in place or in development. 
  3.  A respirator fit testing kit (bitter (BitrexTM) and/or sweet (saccharin) solutions). Kit includes: sensitivity solution, fit test solution, 2 nebulizers, hood and possibly a collar.
  4.  At least 2 unused NIOSH-approved disposable N95 respirator (should be the make and model and sizes as will be supplied and available at your workplace).
  5.  Nitrile gloves.
  6.  Disinfecting wipes (for fit testing hood and nebulizers); use a disinfectant from the Health Canada List of disinfectants for use against COVID-19
  7.  Alcohol based hand rub (i.e. hand sanitizer at least 70% alcohol).

Additional requirements:

  -  You must practice in a sanitized environment and have access to sink in close proximity during the Part 2 – Virtual Classroom.

  -  You are required to attend the Part 2 – Virtual Classroom with a partner (to demonstrate the fit testing) e.g. co-worker, fellow participant, etc. Refer to partner selection considerations as noted above.

  -  Your partner will be required to wear a NIOSH-approved disposable N95 respirator for the purpose of the Part 2 – virtual classroom. They are to be clean-shaven where the respirator seals to the skin of the face or neck; and have had nothing to eat, drink (exception plain water), smoke, chew gum in the past 15 minutes prior to session.  Please note: denatonium benzoate (bitter) and/or saccharin (sweet) solutions will be used in this training and included in your fit testing kit. The partner should confirm they are not allergic to such agents. The participant should also have available the safety data sheets for these products which have been read and followed.  

  -  As per CSA standards, your partner must review and complete a non-disclosure health assessment form supplied by your employer or a sample will be provided in the Participant Workbook (Appendix F) found in the resources tab of the Part 1 eLearning module. A copy of which must be provided to your employer.

  -  Availability of a first aider or the ability to obtain assistance in the event of an emergency.

  -  Laptop with Zoom and camera and audio-enabled (also with continuous internet access).