Mask Fit Testing for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in Ontario

Your N95 mask is only protecting you if it seals to your face. Right now, you may not know if yours does. A mask fit test finds out, and it takes less time than most people expect. At MaskFit+, we fit test N95, R95 and P95 masks, plus reusable half-face and full-face respirators.

Why your seal matters more than you think

PSWs spend their shifts in close, repeated contact with clients, often in homes and care settings where illness can spread from one person to the next. That exposure is why your protection needs to hold up. A mask and/or respirator only protects you when it seals against your face, and a fit test replaces guesswork with proof. Students need a current fit test before practical placements, and employers expect the same standard once you’re on the job.

What happens in the room

Ontario recognizes two fit-testing methods: qualitative and quantitative. MaskFit+ provides qualitative testing, which uses a harmless smell-based test agent to check the seal.

Every session follows the fit-testing methods used under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act and CSA Z94.4. You’ll cover:

• Your rights when wearing PPE at work
• How the test works, including the smell test
• How to inspect your mask and/or respirator
• How to don and doff it properly
• How to run a user seal check
• The required fit-test exercises
• How to care for your mask and/or respirator and understand its limits
• How you’re certified once you’re sealed

Sessions run up to 60 minutes. If your first mask and/or respirator doesn’t seal, we do our best to keep testing until we find one that does.

How long your fit test lasts

Plan on retesting every two years. Retest sooner if you switch mask and/or respirator models, or if your facial structure, weight, dental work or other protective equipment changes in a way that could affect the seal. Once you’re certified, you receive a MaskFit+ card valid for two years, so you’ll always know where you stand.

Where PSWs can get tested

We run scheduled public sessions for individuals and small groups in Mississauga, Toronto, Oakville, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph. Venues, dates and times appear when you register. Students who need current certification for placements may receive reminder emails before their two-year date.

Agencies and schools with several PSWs can book onsite group sessions. Each session fits up to eight participants, with no minimum group size. Multiple sessions can run simultaneously.

Frequently asked questions

How often do I need a mask fit test?

Every two years, or sooner if your mask and/or respirator model or facial structure changes.

Do I need a fit test before working as a PSW?

Yes, before you use a tight-fitting mask and/or respirator at work. Check with your placement or employer about which model they require.

Which masks and respirators can I be tested on?

N95, R95 and P95 masks, plus reusable half-face and full-face respirators.

Do you offer quantitative fit testing?

No. We provide qualitative fit testing only.

Book your fit test

Book a spot through our Individual Fit Testing page, or call 289-643-6222 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Schools and agencies can request onsite sessions on our Corporate Fit Testing page.