Face Fit Testing

Course Overview:

Our Qualitative Face Service is approximately 20 minutes in length per person, and provides individuals with a record of fit test assessment to confirm that the RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) they use has been fit tested.

Recent research indicates that as much as 50% of all Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) used does not offer the wearer the level of protection assumed and one of the major reasons is that it simply does not fit the users face correctly! Yet, under the regulations RPE must be correctly selected and this includes, for many types of RPE, a Face Piece Fit Test conducted by a trained and competent person.

Our fit testers are trained by a leading manufacturer and competent to the standards required in the HSE guidance note HSE 282/28 and are also Fit2Fit accredited.

We can also provide onsite Qualitative Face Fit Testing for up to 10 test (half day) or 20 tests (full day).

Please note that in order for the face fit tests to work, the trainee MUST NOT eat, drink or smoke for at least 30 minutes before the test is performed. They must also be clean-shaven as stubble will prevent a good seal and the face fit test will fail. Failure to adopt this requirement will result in the person NOT being tested.

Who should attend:

If you wear respiratory protective equipment (RPE), then it is essential that you have documentary evidence to show the RPE fits the wearer. By subjecting each wearer to a face-fit test you can be sure that your organisation is meeting and fulfilling the requirements laid out in the Health & Safety Executives (HSE) guidance note HSE 282/28.

The training is specific to each person and includes:

-How to check the mask is working properly before use
-How to identify worn or broken parts
-How to check the mask still fits
-Limitations of the mask to be used

A Fit Test can be carried out in the initial stages of selecting RPE, where an untested face piece is already in use or when the wearer has any significant facial changes (i.e. weight gain or loss, facial hair growth, etc). Fit testing does not need to be done annually but it is recommended that face piece wearers receive annual refresher training covering the selection, use & maintenance of their face mask.

Qualification:

A record of fit test will be provided to each person who successfully passes the fit test. An electronic copy will also be sent to the booking contact in order for records to maintained.