Employer’s Guide to Mask Fit Testing in Ontario: Protect Workers and Reduce Risk

Respiratory illnesses were the second-highest cause of lost-time claims and fatalities in Canada in 2020, with over 32,000 reported work-related respiratory illnesses and 165 fatalities. Protecting your workforce from these hazards is not just good practice it’s a legal obligation under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

As an employer, it is your duty to take every reasonable precaution to ensure worker safety. Mask fit testing is a critical component of this responsibility, helping to prevent respiratory illnesses and maintain a healthy, productive workforce.

In 2020, there were 32,058 work-related respiratory illnesses.

In 2020, there were 165 work-related fatalities due to respiratory illnesses.

Protect yourself from becoming a part of this statistic.

Employer Responsibilities for Respiratory Safety

Engineering controls, like ventilation, are effective but cannot eliminate all airborne hazards. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including respirators, is the last line of defence, and proper fit is essential.

All workplaces—whether office, industrial, or construction—must ensure that employees are wearing well-fitted masks to protect against:

• Silica dust on construction sites
• Fumes and chemicals in industrial settings
• Allergens and airborne irritants in indoor offices
• Pesticides and outdoor hazards

Failing to provide appropriate respirator training and fit testing can result in regulatory violations and potential liability.

Symptoms

Engineering controls are not a suitable prevention method for every scenario. This is why you need to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). It is your last line of defence in the hierarchy of controls, so it is crucial that your respirator is protecting you appropriately.

Indoor and outdoor workers are equally susceptible to respiratory diseases:

• Fumes from a photocopier could affect a blue-collar worker
• Pesticides could affect a landscaper
• Construction workers are exposed to silica dust from many sources
• Painters could suffer from inhaling the fumes

Look out for the below symptoms to assess if you are suffering from poor air quality:

• Irritated eyes
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Asthma
• Throat irritation
• Bronchitis
• Headaches

Benefits of Getting a Mask Fit Test

Finding a face mask to wear is easy. But does it fit? More importantly, is it the right mask for your employees? Will it protect them from the hazardous substances present in your workplace?

N95 masks are designed to protect workers in oil-free environments, like hospitals. There are many types and shapes so a proper fit is essential, and some employees may be allergic to certain mask materials.

This is why getting a Respirator Mask Fit Test is essential!

A well-fitted mask tightly contours the wearer’s face, preventing harmful particles from entering the lungs. Benefits include:

• Prevents respiratory illnesses
• Increases productivity of workers
• Boosts employee morale
• Protection against heat stress (respirators with cooling systems)

Financial Benefits for Employers

Investing in mask fit testing is cost-effective. According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, long-latency illnesses accounted for the largest portion of compensation benefit costs between 2008 and 2017. Fewer respiratory cases can lead to lower insurance premiums.

You will also be protected from liability for not providing respirator training to your workers. The OHSA states that employers must provide training before a worker’s first use of a respirator.

By investing in your employees, you are investing in the future of your organization.

Types of Fit Test (Overview)

While detailed step-by-step instructions are covered in our Mastering N95 Mask Fit Testing guide, employers should understand the two main types:

• Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT) – Uses a taste or smell aerosol to check mask seal integrity.
• Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT) – Uses specialized equipment to measure particle leakage and provides an objective pass/fail result.

Providing both options ensures employees receive the correct mask and fit for their role.

Protect Your Workforce and Your Organization

Mask fit testing is more than a safety requirement—it’s a strategic step to protect employees, reduce liability, and maintain workplace productivity. By implementing regular fit testing and training, employers in Ontario can ensure compliance, safeguard their workforce, and demonstrate leadership in occupational health and safety.

For detailed guidance on how to conduct mask fit testing, check our step-by-step N95 Mask Fit Testing guide.