Major changes in the Worker Protection Standards for 2018 may necessitate persons handling pesticides to wear a respirator.

For any pesticide that requires a respirator, including the N95 (a two-strap filtering particulate respirator), the person using the respirator must have a medical evaluation and fit test, as well as training on how to use and maintain the respirator.

To assist people with being in compliance, a respirator fit test/medical clearance clinic is being hosted by the Extension centers of Currituck, Camden and Pasquotank counties.

The clinic will be conducted on Friday, March 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Henderson and Associates, Inc., located at 300 Camden Causeway in Elizabeth City. Appointments will be on a first-come first-served basis. Attendees must bring the respirator they will be using for the fit test to be done.

Medical clearance is required before fit testing and will also be offered at this event. The cost for medical clearance is $40, payable at the time of the exam. There is no cost for the fit test.

For more information contact Currituck agriculture agent Jody Carpenter at the Currituck Extension Center at 252-232-2262 or by email at jody_carpenter@ncsu.edu. To arrange accommodations for persons with disabilities, contact Carpenter at least five business days prior to the clinic.