About the RPE Face Fit-Testing Course

Qualitative testing is for disposable and reusable half masks, and can take up to 20 minutes per person to complete.

The test is carried out in two stages:

1. Sensitivity test: this confirms that the wearer can detect the test agent (either smell or taste). The test agent is sprayed into a test hood (worn over the head and shoulders) so that the wearer’s sensitivity can be established.
2. The fit test requires the wearer to put on their face mask and the test hood.  The tester sprays the agent into the hood at intervals, whilst the wearer is carrying out a series of exercises designed to simulate movement expected in the workplace. For example, moving their head side to side, or up and down. If the wearer can taste or smell the test agent at any time this indicates a fail – the mask does not fit.

  Health and Safety Regulations and Purpose of Face fit Test

The COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) 2002, Regulations has a requirement that the initial selection process for all tight-fitting facepieces should include face-fit testing to ensure the wearer has a correctly fitting device. Fit Testing is also required under the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations and the Control of Lead at Work Regulations. RPE Fit Testing is required for all tight-fitting facepieces including all filtering facepieces (disposable face masks), half masks and full-face masks. This includes negative pressure full-face masks as well as power-assisted full masks, and both self-contained and air-fed breathing apparatus.

  New HSE Fit Testing Guidance INDG 479

In April 2019, HSE’s Information Document HSE282/28 was replaced by a new guidance document, INDG 479. This new guidance covers fit testing methods, techniques and protocols including practical aspects, records and theory. This document is HSE Guidance and in following this guidance employers will normally be doing enough to comply with the law.

Using your Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

To ensure your RPE works, you should make sure:

• The chosen RPE fits, is suitable for the task and the wearer.
• You conduct fit tests for each wearer, for each piece of tight-fitting RPE they use.
• The RPE works with other protective equipment the user wears.
• The wearers are trained to use it and are supervised.
• You maintain each device as per the manufacturers’ instructions.
• The RPE is stored properly.

How to prepare for your face fit test

Several things could impact the results of your face fit test, due to the accuracy of the equipment. These include, but are not limited to:

• Facial hair
• Long hair (will need to be tied back)
• Eyewear

It is also advised that you do not smoke, eat or drink for at least 1 hour prior to the test.

Facial Hair

Facial hair, stubble and beards make it extremely difficult to get a good seal. If there are reasons for having a beard (ie, for religious reasons) alternative forms of RPE that do not rely on a tight fit to the face are available: ie full hooded masks.

COST

Cost per individual is £45 .

Get in touch with us and we will ensure all your workers are face fit tested.