ASTM F3407-21 - Standard Test Method for Respirator Fit Capability for Negative-Pressure Half-Facepiece Particulate Respirators

1.1 This standard provides detailed instructions for performing a respirator fit capability test to determine the fit of air-purifying, half-facepiece respirators, which will include both filtering facepiece respirators and elastomeric respirators equipped with any type of particulate filter. The purpose is to increase the probability that available respirators fit a general worker population. The standard provides increased assurance to respirator purchasers and users that respirators that meet the requirement of this standard can be expected to effectively fit persons with various lengths and widths of faces, such as long and narrow or short and wide, when fit tested in the workplace as part of a complete respiratory protection program in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.134.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 It is the responsibility of the investigator to determine whether good laboratory practices (GLP standards—40 CFR, Part 160 of FIFRA) are required and to follow them when appropriate.

1.4 This standard does not address specific product performance standards established by regulatory authorities; see 2.2 for details.

1.5 This standard does not eliminate the need for every wearer to undergo a personal respirator fit test.

1.6 This standard does not guarantee that every respirator wearer will be able to achieve the required fit factor on a particular manufacturer’s single-size or multi-size respirator model. Respirator wearers must always be given the opportunity to try other models or other manufacturers’ respirators.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.