N-95 Mask Fit Testing
Certified Professionals
All fit testing are completed by 3M and Bioxy certified fit testers in accordance with current CSA-Z94.4 Standards.
- Appointments are limited to 2-4 people per 20-min session. Recommended to arrive 5-10 mins before scheduled time, to complete ID checks and any necessary documentation, in preparation for the mask fit test.
N-95 Respirators
We only supply NIOSH-approved N95 respirators, from brands such as 3M and Gateway Safety. Respirators can be made available desperately ($10/each), while supplies are sufficient.
- N95 respirators are a form of PPE, used to filter particulates (i.e. dust, fibres, mist, fumes and bioaerosol particles).
Method of Payment
Payment is completed primarily through contactless method (electronically) or in Cash. Please ensure you have a sufficient amount with you during the appointment. See FAQ.
- Example: Bring $50 + $10/ respirator, plus extra if the first respirator does not pass the fit test.
Preparing for your Mask Fit Test
Duration of appointment: 10-20 mins
Read FAQ for more information
- Avoid eating, drinking (other than water), or smoking 15-mins prior
- Do not wear jewelry that may come in contact between the skin and sealing surface
- MEN: clean-shaven within the previous 12-24 hrs (reference FAQ for acceptable, unacceptable hair)
- WOMEN: do not wear makeup
FAQ
Click the option(s) below to see more FAQ.
What is an N-95 Respirator?
N-95 Respirators are a form of PPE, used to filter particulates (i.e. dust, fibres, mist, bioaerosols, fumes). Traditionally accepted N-95 respirators are NIOSH-approved. In the word N95, “N” stands for not resistant to oil, and “95” represents filter efficiency (i.e. filters 95% particulates).
Why do I need a Mask Fit Test?
The most common industry that employ the use of N95 Respirators are the healthcare sectors. Commonly, clinical placement agencies require students to get certified with a Mask Fit Test before allowing access to hospitals or related fields, such can be found in medicine, nursing and allied healthcare programs. In addition, healthcare professionals employ the use of N-95 respirators to minimize risk and promote safety of individuals in a healthcare environment.
Other industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing and related work environments generally seek protection from dust, dirt and airborne contaminants. The Mask Fit Test serves to confirm the proper fitting and use of the fitted respirator.
What brands of respirators do you carry?
We use of NIOSH-approved respirators. The brands we use include Gateway Safety and 3M (9210+, 8210, 8110S, 1870+ and 1860S).
What is the testing solution?
At Bioxy, we employ the use of Bitrex, a bitter solution. Denatonium benzoate is a very bitter chemical. The solutions are manufactured by 3M and are safe to ingest. You can find the SDS on the product by clicking here.
What is the proper use of the N-95 respirator?
We cover the proper use and care of respirators in our training. In general, the mask should be properly fitted to the face, without spaces or gaps between the skin and mask; the upper strap should be positioned on the crown of head, while the lower strap below the ears. Always conduct a user seal check each time the respirator is put on. Follow appropriate user and donning instructions for the specific model.
Air will take the path of least resistance, so if the seal to the face isn’t secure, the air will go around rather than through the respirator. Therefore, it is essential to ensure a proper fit when wearing tight-fitting respirators.
Disposable N95 respirators are per one time use only, after which it must be disposed of appropriately. Disposable N95 respirators are not to be washed after use, after soiled; if damaged replace with a new respirator.
What happens when the first mask does not fit me properly?
We cover the proper use and care of respirators in our training. If the first mask does not fit properly, the participant will check the seal and correct as necessary, if this continues to follow with failed fitting, an alternate/ new respirator will be provided, and the test will restart.
What do I need to know BEFORE my appointment?
- Avoid eating, drinking, smoking 15-30 mins prior to the session.
- Do not wear jewelry that may come in contact between the skin and sealing surface.
- MEN: clean-shaven within the previous 12-24 hrs (reference FAQ for acceptable, unacceptable hair).
- WOMEN: do not wear makeup.
- Bring personal water bottle and PPE, as necessary.
What should I bring to the appointment?
- Bring a valid government issued ID (drivers license, health card, etc).
- Personal water bottle.
- Personal PPE (as needed).
- Sufficient cash amount for payment.
How much should I bring for the payment?
Payment is completed electronically, by POS or Cash. The following should be used as an example for what to expect. Some scenarios may vary.
If you own a respirator and it is fit tested successfully, the cost will be $50.
If you do not own a respirator and require one to be provided, the cost will be $50 + $10 (per respirator).
If you do not own a respirator and the first mask fails the fit test, a second will be provided, the cost will be $50 + $10 + $10, etc.
Our goal is to have participants fitted with their first mask, however, when it comes to safety we do not allow for any shortcuts. In the event a second failure happens, a third respirator may be required. Therefore, it is best to be over prepared and bring an appropriate amount to the appointment. Payment by Credit Card makes it easier for individuals to having the right amount.
What is acceptable and unacceptable facial hair for the fit test?
- Acceptable: clean shaven, amount of facial hair that typically allow for a good seal, moustache that does not interfere with seal, soul patch that does not interfere with seal.
- Unacceptable: side burns, facial “shadow” (not clean shaven), moustache too thick and too long (around edges of mouth), beard, hair is in the sealing region and under the chin.e sealing region and under the chin.e sealing region and under the chin.e sealing region and under the chin.
More examples can be found here.
Can I eat, drink or smoke before my appointment?
No, avoid eating, chewing gum, drinking (unless water), smoking or vaping at least 15-30 mins before your scheduled mask fit test.
Can I bring my own N-95 to the appointment?
Yes, if you have your own N95 respirator, you can bring it with you to your appointment. Please note, if the respirator does not fit, an alternate respirator may or will be required to conduct the remainder of the test.
When will I receive my mask fit test certificate?
You will receive a certificate the same day, at the end of your appointment, after the fit test is successful.
How long is my mask fit test certificate from Bioxy valid for?
The certificate is valid for 2 years, unless you have major changes in size or shape of your face.
I lost my card, can I get a new one?
A replacement card can be provided at an additional fee of $12.
Can you do a mask fit test for half- or full-face respirators?
Yes, we can provide mask fit testing for half-face and full-face respirators. Participants must bring their own respirators. Ones can be provided at an additional cost of $35.00-$75.00 depending on model (this cost is different from disposable N-95 respirators).
When do you provide special fit clinics?
Special fit clinics are based on request from large groups. Service location is confirmed by the appointed fit tester, pending approval, specific rooms will be confirmed up to 4-5 days before the time of booking. Bookings are subject to change or cancellation.
When are you in Barrie?
Services for Barrie take place from Monday through Friday.
Secondary to the available dates, the upcoming open mask fit test clinic will be held on April 19, 2025.
Service location is subject to confirmation near Georgian College, pending approval, specific location and rooms will be confirmed 1-3 days before time of booking. Bookings in this region are subject to change or cancellation.
When are you in St. Catharines/ Niagara Region?
Services for St. Catharines and Niagara Region take place during Saturday and Sunday.
Secondary to the available dates, the upcoming open mask fit test clinic will be held on April 12 & 19, 2025.
Service location can be arranged at one of our select clinic locations, near Brock University or Niagara College. Typically sessions may take place at our office location at 110 James Street, St. Catharines. Pending approval, specific rooms will be confirmed 1-3 days before time of booking. Bookings in this region are subject to change or cancellation.
When are you in the Toronto/ York Region?
Services in the Toronto and York Region take place on Thursday and Saturday.
The upcoming mask fit test clinic will be held on April 30, 2025.
Service location can be arranged near York University/ one of our Toronto locations, pending approval, specific rooms will be confirmed 1-5 days before time of booking. Bookings in this region are subject to change or cancellation.
When are you in Thunder Bay?
Services in the Thunder Bay take place from Monday to Sunday.
Secondary to the available dates, the upcoming open mask fit test clinic will be held on April 17 and 28, 2025.
Service location will be arranged near Lakehead University, pending approval, specific rooms will be confirmed 1-3 days before time of booking. Bookings in this region are subject to change or cancellation.
When are you in London?
Services in London take place on Saturday and Sunday.
The upcoming mask fit test clinic will be held on May 1, 2025.
Service location can be arranged near Western University, pending approval, specific rooms will be confirmed 2-4 days before time of booking. Bookings in this region are subject to change or cancellation.
