N95 Respirator Approval Process

Since the N95 respirator is a tight-fitting face piece respirator, there is an approval process each wearer must complete before being fitted for an N95 respirator. The steps below include a medical questionnaire, fitting of the N95 respirator, training, and annual refresher and training.

Step 1: Complete the N95 Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire

• For Employees, Fellows, or Residents, send the completed questionnaire to the UT Health Services by email, Occupational.Health@uth.tmc.edu or fax at 713-486-0983 or 713-500-3263
• For Students, send the completed questionnaire to the Student Health Clinic by email, Ms.studenthealthclinic@uth.tmc.edu or fax at 713-500-0605
• Please wait 7 to 10 business days after faxing the questionnaire to UT Health Services before scheduling a fit test
• Re-submission of the Medical Evaluation Questionnaire is required if:
  • An employee reports medical signs or symptoms that are related to ability to use a respirator
  • A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program administrator informs the employer that an employee needs to be reevaluated
  • A change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physical work effort, protective clothing, temperature) that may result in a substantial increase in the physiological burden placed on an employee

Step 2: Fit tests are required for the use of any respirator with a tight-fitting face piece such as the N95 respirator.

• Contact Chemical Safety at 713-500-5832 to schedule an appointment
• Do not eat, chew gum, or drink anything except water for at least 15 minutes before coming to be fit tested
• Males must be clean shaven to be fit tested

Step 3: The N95 Respirator training will be given at the conclusion of the fit test.

• Training includes the proper handling, storage, and use of N-95 respirators.
• Sign the Record of Fit Test Completion and Training form

Step 4: Annual fit tests & training.

• Annual fit tests are required to monitor changes in facial structure and ability to wear the respirator.
• Refresher training is given at the conclusion of the fit test

If you have any questions and/or concerns please contact Chemical Safety at 713-500-5832.