N.C. Cooperative Extension – Cabarrus Center will be offering a Respirator Fit Test on March 7, 2025, at the Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension Office. To schedule an appointment, please follow this link.
What to Expect at a Respirator Fit Test
Includes Fit Test & Medical Clearance
Federal regulations require medical clearance prior to fit testing. Upon arrival, you will check in and complete the fit test record and OSHA questionnaire (if not previously submitted).
Medical Clearance
A licensed healthcare professional (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) must complete a medical evaluation before the fit test. If you do not have proof of medical clearance at the time of testing, an Agromedicine Institute nurse will conduct the evaluation on-site before proceeding with the fit test.
To remain in compliance, you must provide documentation of:
- Medical clearance
- The timing of the clearance
- Fit test completion
Fit Test
Nurses from the NC Agromedicine Institute will conduct the fit test using specialized equipment. You must bring the specific respirator you plan to use, as the fit test applies only to that model.
Tips & Reminders
- Store respirator cartridges separately in a sealed container and maintain a log of usage.
- Cartridges and filtering facepieces are typically effective for 8 hours of use.
Paperwork Requirements
- The NC State Agromedicine Institute requires fit test records and medical clearance documentation to be kept on file for two years.
- OSHA regulations require these records to be maintained for five years for farms with migrant housing or 11+ full-time, year-round employees.
Payment Options
We accept card, check, or farm invoice.
Facial Hair Policy
Per federal guidelines, fit tests cannot be performed if facial hair interferes with the respirator seal or valve function. However, short mustaches, sideburns, and neatly trimmed goatees that do not affect the seal may be permitted. Scan the QR code to view acceptable facial hair styles.
For more information or questions, please call 704-920-3310.
