Respiratory Protection Guidelines

Introduction to Fit Testing

• The American Thoracic Society recommends spirometry screening for COPD starting at age 40 years in individuals with respiratory symptoms and risk factors such as smoking history or occupational exposures 1

Medical Conditions and Fit Testing

• The American College of Physicians suggests that the presence of respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD requires medical evaluation to determine if the individual can safely wear a respirator, but age itself is not the determining factor 3, 4

Pediatric Considerations

• The European Respiratory Society notes that children as young as 5 years can perform acceptable spirometry testing with appropriate coaching and trained technicians, though this relates to pulmonary function testing rather than occupational fit testing 2
• The American Thoracic Society states that respiratory muscle testing and spirometry can be performed in children after 3-4 years of age when they can cooperate with testing procedures 5

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• The American College of Physicians advises against confusing spirometry screening for COPD with fit testing requirements for respirator use, as these are distinct procedures with different purposes 1
• The American College of Physicians also cautions against assuming older age or presence of COPD/asthma automatically excludes someone from fit testing, as individual medical clearance is required 3, 4