Mask Fit Testing Requirements

Students must be fitted for a protective mask prior to starting clinical placements, with proof of testing submitted by the documentation deadline.

• Mask Fit Testing is mandatory. 

• Students may submit an existing mask fit certificate if it is valid for the entire upcoming academic year.

• Mask fit testing completed on campus is valid for two years. Testing dates and booking information will be communicated to students by email.
  • Students choosing to complete testing off campus must ensure their provider supplies documentation that clearly identifies the date of testing, the mask model and size, and that the mask is valid for 2 years. Documentation that only provides an expiry date may not meet the School of Nursing's requirements.
• Students may submit an existing mask fit certificate provided it meets the above requirements and remains valid for the entire upcoming academic year.
• Students requiring a religious exemption must contact the School of Nursing for further information.

Mask Size Guidelines

The list of available mask sizes is subject the change.

• 3M-1870+ is the preferred mask for local placement agencies and must be tried first.
• 3M-1860 or 3M-1860s are acceptable only if a student does not pass the fit test with the 3M-1870+.
• 3M-1804 or 3M-1804s are acceptable only if all of the above options fail. Please note: these are considered special order masks by our local hospitals and may not be readily available site-wide for student use. 

The following masks are not acceptable:

• 3M-1870 (not to be confused with 3M-1870+).
• 3M-8210
• 3M-8110s
• V-Flex 9105
• V-Flex 9105s

On-Campus Mask Fit Testing

• Mask fit testing is offered on campus, with results valid for two years.
• Please watch for emails regarding upcoming testing dates, or contact adminasst.nurs@lakeheadu.ca for further information.

Students doing an out-of-town placement in their final year must ensure that their fitted mask is compatible with the organization's available supply.