Frequently Asked Questions

Does MHD service clients nationwide?

Yes! MHD offers services nationwide. We have Safety Responders located throughout the U.S., so you get the responsiveness and personal attention of a local provider, backed by the reach of a national team.

What services does MHD offer?

We provide on-site workplace safety services, including:

• Hearing testing
• Respirator fit testing
• Respirator medical evaluations
• Pulmonary function testing
• Air monitoring surveys
• Noise level surveys - Cleanroom certification
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) creation and review
• Workplace safety scans

Who are your onsite technicians?

At MHD, we call our technicians Safety Responders. They’re all former first responders, military veterans, firefighters, paramedics, or police officers, bringing professionalism, calm, and experience to your workplace and continuing their mission to keep people safe. We care about the people behind the job titles. Safety is personal to us—because it’s been our job our whole lives.

Do you come to our location?

Yes! All MHD services are performed onsite at your facility for maximum convenience and minimal disruption.

How much do services cost?

Pricing depends on the number of employees, services required, and your timeline. Each quote is custom-tailored. Contact MHD for a personalized estimate.

Can MHD respond quickly for urgent testing needs?

Yes, often within just a few days. Let us know your timeframe and we’ll do our best to meet it.

I received an OSHA citation. Can MHD help?

Absolutely. MHD helps companies get compliant quickly with onsite testing, documentation, and training solutions.

Does MHD offer services 24/7?

Yes, MHD operates 24/7/365 to accommodate shift schedules and keep your operations running smoothly.

New to MHD? Here’s how to get started.

Just reach out—our team of safety professionals and experts will guide you through every step. Whether you're reacting to an OSHA deadline or getting ahead of potential risks, we’ll make the process simple and stress-free.

We follow a Proven Process that keeps things easy and clear:

• Learn: We ask the right questions to understand what you need.
• Propose: We offer tailored solutions and a custom quote.
• Prepare: We collect key info and explain what to expect.
• Service: Our Safety Responders come onsite and deliver best-in-class service.
• Support: We deliver reports, answer questions, and remain a trusted resource.

How soon can you be onsite?

Often within just a few days. MHD’s Safety Responders are located throughout the nation, so we can respond quickly—and help you with your tight timelines.

Can I get a quote first?

Absolutely. We’ll provide a personalized quote with no pressure to commit. Just clear pricing and expert recommendations from people who’ve done this before.

What should I have ready when I call or email?

Honestly—not much. Depending on the service, we’ll help figure out exactly what’s needed to get you an accurate quote. You don’t need to have all the answers—that’s what we’re here for.

I’m not sure where to begin with OSHA compliance. Can MHD help?

Yes. We’re not just here to check the box—we’re your compliance partner. Whether you’re navigating a new requirement, responding to a citation, or just trying to improve workplace safety, we’ll help you understand what matters and how to tackle it step-by-step.

Is there a size minimum for scheduling services?

Nope! We work with companies of all sizes—from small teams to multi-site operations.

Why do first-time clients choose MHD?

Everyone on our team is a seasoned safety professional — we know what to look for and how to help.

• We bring everything to your site—no mobile vans, no extra coordination.
• Our Proven Process makes everything simple, fast, and effective.
• Reports are clear, compliance-ready, and easy to act on.
• You get a real partner—not just a provider.

Not sure where to start? That’s exactly why we’re here. Let’s talk — and help your team work without worry.

Do employees have to go to a van or hearing booth?

Unlike many providers who perform onsite testing in mobile vans, MHD conducts OSHA-compliant hearing tests right in your conference room or a similar indoor space. This not only eliminates the need for employees to leave the building, but also ensures more consistent, comfortable, and controlled testing conditions, leading to more reliable results compared to mobile booths that can be affected by environmental noise.

How many people can MHD test per hour?

We’ll accommodate as many employees as you need. Whether you're testing a small group or an entire shift, we adjust our team and schedule to keep things efficient and minimize disruption to your operations.

Are test results reviewed by an audiologist?

Yes. All hearing test results are reviewed by a licensed audiologist to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Can MHD conduct testing in other languages?

Yes. We offer multilingual testing and instructions to ensure every employee is comfortable and informed.

How should employees prepare for hearing tests?

For baseline testing, employees should avoid loud noise for 14 hours. This includes wearing hearing protection during work and avoiding loud recreational activities (like concerts or power tools) the day before.

Does MHD provide hearing conservation training?

Yes! MHD offers onsite OSHA-compliant hearing conservation training.

What is a fit test, and who needs it?

A fit test ensures that a tight-fitting respirator seals properly to the wearer’s face. OSHA requires fit testing for anyone wearing these types of respirators.

How often must employees be fit tested?

At least once per year, or anytime a different model or size respirator is used or the employee’s facial structure changes significantly.

What’s the difference between qualitative and quantitative fit tests?

• Qualitative fit testing relies on the wearer’s ability to detect a test agent (like a bitter or sweet-tasting aerosol). It’s a pass/fail method based on subjective responses.
• Quantitative fit testing uses advanced instruments to measure the actual amount of leakage into the respirator, producing objective, numeric results.
  
  

At MHD, we strongly recommend quantitative testing for all respirators because it's faster, more precise, and delivers clear, documented results. Many companies report fewer missed shifts, greater employee satisfaction, and improved respirator confidence when using quantitative fit testing.

What type of respirators can MHD fit test?

We fit test NIOSH approved respirators such as N95s, half-face, and full-face respirators across all major brands.

Can employees with facial hair be fit tested?

In most cases, no, employees must be clean-shaven anywhere the respirator seal touches the face in order to pass a proper fit test. Facial hair in the seal area can break the protective barrier, making the respirator ineffective. However, if an employee has facial hair that does not interfere with the seal (such as a neatly trimmed mustache or goatee that stays outside the sealing area), they may still be eligible for testing depending on the respirator type.

How many respirator fit tests can MHD perform per hour?

We’re built to flex around your needs. Whether you’re fit testing a handful of employees or coordinating testing across multiple shifts, we scale our approach to keep the process smooth, fast, and disruption-free.

Do employees need a medical evaluation before fit testing?

Yes. OSHA requires a medical evaluation before an employee can be fit tested for a respirator. At MHD, we make it easy. Our evaluations are completed online before your scheduled visit—with no need for a doctor’s appointment.

How does MHD fit test N95 respirators?

While OSHA allows qualitative fit testing for N95s, MHD strongly recommends quantitative fit testing. It's more accurate, objective, and doesn’t rely on the employee’s ability to detect taste or smell, making it especially valuable in critical work environments. Plus, quantitative fit testing is typically completed in half the time of qualitative testing, reducing downtime without sacrificing safety.

What is pulmonary function testing (PFT)?

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) measures how well the lungs are working and is often required for employees who use respirators or work around airborne hazards.

Specifically, PFT evaluates lung capacity and how effectively a person can exhale air over a short period of time. It helps identify or monitor respiratory conditions and can detect early signs of occupational lung diseases, especially those related to long-term exposure to hazards like silica dust (linked to silicosis) or coal dust (black lung).

At MHD, we provide PFTs when recommended to help ensure your team can safely perform their jobs while staying compliant with health and safety regulations.

Is pulmonary function testing (PFT) required by OSHA?

While OSHA requires a medical evaluation before respirator fit testing, a pulmonary function test (PFT) may also be required depending on an employee’s work tasks, exposures, and the type of respirator used. PFTs help determine whether a worker can safely wear a respirator by evaluating how well their lungs function.

At MHD, we offer PFTs when recommended by a medical provider, ensuring your program remains compliant and your team stays safe.

When is a PFT required?

PFTs are commonly required when employees are exposed to:

• Respiratory irritants or sensitizers
• Known or suspected asthma-causing agents
• Fibrogenic substances (like silica or asbestos)
• Lung carcinogens

Several OSHA standards mandate PFTs as part of medical surveillance when employees are exposed to specific substances or required to use respirators. The table below outlines key examples:

 

 

How is the test performed?

MHD brings portable, non-invasive equipment called a spirometer and performs the test in a private space at your facility.

Why is air monitoring important?

Air monitoring measures employee exposure to airborne contaminants like dusts, vapors, and fumes. It's essential for OSHA compliance, protecting employee health, and determining whether a respiratory protection program is needed.

How is air sampling conducted?

First, our Certified Industrial Hygienist designs a custom sampling plan for your worksite. Then, our team attaches personal sampling devices and/or area monitors in key locations. Samples are analyzed in a certified lab, and you’ll receive a clear, actionable report with next steps.

Can air monitoring help with OSHA compliance?

Yes. Air monitoring is often required to demonstrate that employee exposures are within OSHA’s permissible exposure limits (PELs). It also helps identify when engineering controls, PPE, or process changes are needed, and can even uncover faulty mitigation efforts before they become a bigger problem.

Why should I schedule a noise survey?

If your workplace is loud, OSHA may require a noise survey to determine whether employees are being exposed to sound levels above permissible limits, including the 85 dBA action level over an 8-hour time-weighted average. These surveys help assess whether hearing protection or a full hearing conservation program is needed. They also identify high-exposure areas and guide decisions on engineering controls or other improvements to protect employee hearing and maintain compliance.

What are OSHA’s permissible limits for noise exposure?

OSHA has two key thresholds for workplace noise:

• 85 dBA Action Level (8-hour time-weighted average): If noise levels reach or exceed this point, employers must implement a hearing conservation program that includes annual audiometric testing, training, and hearing protection.
• 90 dBA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): This is the maximum allowable exposure over an 8-hour shift. If exposure exceeds this level, employers are required to implement engineering or administrative controls to reduce noise.

OSHA also prohibits impulse noise exposure above 140 dB, and uses a 5 dB exchange rate, meaning for every 5 dB increase in noise, the allowable exposure time is cut in half.

We know this can be a lot to take in and manage, but that’s exactly why MHD is here to help. Our team of Safety Responders makes it easier to stay compliant and protect your workforce.

How do you measure noise levels?

We use intrinsically safe dosimeters worn by employees to measure real-world exposure over at least 80% of their shift. These dosimeters measure in the A-weighted frequency range, which closely reflects how the human ear perceives sound. We also use area sound level meters to assess high-traffic and active work zones, helping identify noise "hot spots" where mitigation or engineering controls may be needed.

What does “A-weighted” mean when measuring noise?

“A-weighted” (or dBA) refers to how sound levels are measured to reflect the sensitivity of the human ear. This scale emphasizes frequencies we hear most easily and de-emphasizes those we don’t, giving a more accurate picture of the risk to hearing. OSHA and most regulatory agencies use A-weighted measurements when assessing workplace noise exposure.

What happens after the survey?

MHD provides a detailed, easy-to-understand report showing compliance levels and any recommended changes. We don’t just take samples—we help you interpret the results and take action, with the same expertise that’s made MHD a trusted compliance partner nationwide.

How often should noise level surveys be completed?

OSHA requires that noise level surveys should be conducted when:

• There are changes in equipment or work processes that could impact noise exposure.
• Employee complaints or concerns are raised about noise levels.
• Initial assessments are needed to determine whether a hearing conservation program is required.
• At least annually for workplaces with employees in a hearing conservation program (if the noise levels are above the action level).

As a best practice, it’s recommended to conduct surveys every two years, even if no changes have occurred, to ensure ongoing compliance and worker safety.

What is cleanroom certification?

Cleanroom certification ensures that your controlled environment meets regulatory requirements such as ISO or GMP standards.

What’s included in certification testing?

We provide a single page certification to post for the room, all logging data, a report on the study's findings, and a room particle count of the area to verify the room is working as intended.

How often do I need to certify my cleanroom?

Cleanroom certification is typically required once or twice a year, depending on your industry and operating procedures. However, recertification may also be needed after maintenance, changes to processes or personnel flow, equipment relocation, or any event that could impact air quality or cleanroom performance. Some industries, like pharmaceutical manufacturing, may require certification as often as quarterly. MHD can help you determine the right schedule for your facility.

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

An SDS outlines important safety information about chemicals used in your workplace, hazards, first aid, storage, and PPE. Employers are required to have an SDS for any chemical that is used by a business in a central location and easily accessible.

Can MHD create or review SDSs?

Yes. MHD creates, updates, and reviews SDSs to help ensure OSHA HazCom compliance.

When should SDSs be updated?

Anytime chemical info changes, or at least annually to ensure accuracy and compliance.

What’s a workplace safety scan?

It’s a professional walkthrough of your facility where MHD identifies safety gaps, compliance risks, and improvement opportunities.

What does MHD look for?

We assess PPE use, signage, egress, chemical handling, machine guarding, and more. Our Safety Responders know how to spot real risks in real-world environments—not just check a box. That’s the MHD difference.

What’s the outcome?

You’ll receive a clear, actionable report tailored to your workplace. But it doesn’t stop there, one of our Safety Responders will personally walk you through the results, highlighting areas that are working well and identifying opportunities for improvement. We’ll offer further guidance on how to address any issues and help you implement effective plans to enhance workplace safety and compliance.