Quantitative Fit Testing is the most accurate form of respirator fit testing, a data-driven approach to determining the fit of a respirator on an individual’s face. Proper fit testing saves lives. Many types of masks can be tested including N-95 Filtering Face Pieces, Half-Face Masks, and Full-Face Respirators.
On the other hand, Qualitative Fit Testing is reliant on the wearer’s senses of taste or smell to determine whether or not the respirator’s seal is sufficient. This is a much less reliable method of testing, as it is subjective, the ability to sense or taste the challenge agents varies widely among test subjects, and can be cheated by dishonesty from the person being tested.