Infection prevention and control: Guideline for speech pathologists, Version 1,2020.

5.0

Fit test versus fit check •

Fit test (formal requirement) o Responsibility of the employer to ensure any respiratory protective equipment (e.g., disposable respirators, reusable half masks and reusable full face masks) provides an adequate fit and seal to protect the wearer from fine aerosols containing infectious agents 44,45 o It involves a defined set of exercises (qualitative and quantitative measures) to assess protection against air leak under simulated work conditions o A number of variables are considered in the context of fit testing and individual facial characteristic including facial hair 46,47 o The Australian Department of Health recommends fit testing as the gold standard when using N95/P2 masks • Fit check (recommended practice) o Minimum safety standard and the responsibility of the wearer to ensure the device is positioned correctly each time it is in use o It requires self-checking by the user to determine if there is a good facial seal (nil air leaks in both positive and negative pressure testing) 44,46,47 • Use a risk management approach to ensure adequate training and awareness of appropriate fit and/or fit testing.9,47 Consider using a voice amplifier or a ‘speech-to-text’ application to support client comprehension and/or hearing when wearing a mask • Avoid glasses fogging by: o Applying an anti-fog spray (e.g., purchased from a sporting goods or scuba diving store) o Mixing almost boiling water with white vinegar and rub/spray onto glasses once the mixture is cooled o Placing surgical tape over the bridge of the nose o Tying the elastic ear-loops next to the mask before placing them around the ears to create a ‘duck-bill’ (see Steps 1 and 2 below)

Mask Tips •

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Infection Prevention and Control - Guideline for Speech Pathologists | Version 1, 2020