A Systematic Review of Passing Fit Testing of the Respirators/ Masks
Used During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Part 1-Quantitative Fit Test
Procedures
Abstract
Background: There has been a strong demand for N95 filtering facepiece
respirators and surgical masks during respiratory infection pandemics,
particularly for the frontline healthcare workers who are at risk of
high exposure to biological hazards and for the patients seeking care
who may be potentially transmitting the respiratory viruses through air.
Respirators and masks are pivotal to meet the requirements of filtration
efficiency and fitting characteristics for the users’ protection.
Objective: The goals of this study were to systematically review the fit
testing passing rates and identify the factors influencing the fitting
characteristics. Methods Potentially relevant studies were identified
using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, one scientific
website (cdc.gov), and one scientific journal (ISRP.com) during the
COVID-19 pandemic from February 5, 2020 to January 2, 2023. Meantime,
the gray literature search was performed. Results: A number of studies
conducted regarding the fit testing showed that low proportions of
passing quantitative fit testing among the studied masks or respirators.
Factors such brand, style, and gender were found to be influenced the
respirator fit testing. Conclusion: This systematic review supports the
importance of optimal fit testing for the healthcare workers with
high-risk procedures. Manufacturers supply a variety of the mask/
respirator brands, models, styles, and sizes to ensure the expected
respiratory protection for the end-users. The proper donning and doffing
and reliable fit testing are other affective strategies for improving
fitting. Some modifications / substitutions on components of fit testing
procedures could be considered during pandemics of respiratory
infections.