PPE Face Fit Testing
PPE Face Fit Testing
Face fit testing is a critical procedure designed to ensure that the protective masks worn by employees fit correctly, offering maximum protection against airborne contaminants. If you use a tight-fitting respirator as protection against workplace hazards, a face fit test is mandatory.
This testing is essential, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to hazardous substances, ensuring the mask forms a seal against the face to prevent the inhalation of harmful particles. The process involves checking different types and sizes of masks to find the best fit for each individual, considering facial features and any facial hair that might compromise the seal.
Conducting regular face fit testing not only complies with safety regulations but also significantly reduces health risks, reinforcing a company’s commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. We are here to assist in providing comprehensive face fit testing services, ensuring your workforce is protected and compliant.
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FACE FIT TESTING SERVICE PROVIDER
The performance of tight-fitting facepieces depends on achieving a good contact between the wearer’s skin and the face seal of the facepiece. People’s faces vary significantly in shape and size so it is unlikely that one particular model or size of RPE facepiece will fit everyone.
Inadequate fit will significantly reduce the protection provided to the wearer. Any reduction in protection may lead to immediate or long-term ill health or can even put the RPE wearer’s life in danger.
Fit testing is therefore a method for checking that a specific model and size of tight-fitting facepiece matches the wearer’s facial features and seals adequately to the wearer’s face. It will also help to identify unsuitable facepieces which should not be used.
Face fit testing is a legal requirement for anyone who wears a tight (or close) fitting mask at work. This includes disposable face masks, full and half face reusable masks, powered respirators and full breathing apparatus. A fit test should be carried out to ensure the respiratory protective equipment (RPE) protects the wearer.
Fit2Fit Accredited Quantitative RPE Face Fit Testing
Quantitative fit testing (QNFT) provides a numerical measure of how well a facepiece seals against a wearer’s face; this is called a fit factor. These tests give an objective measure of face fit. QNFT methods are suitable for disposable and reusable half masks and full-face masks.
Qualitative Face Fit Testing in compliance with INDG479, HSG53 and COSHH
Qualitative fit testing (QLFT) is a pass/fail test based on the wearer’s subjective assessment of any leakage through the face seal region by detecting the introduction of bitter- or sweet-tasting aerosol as a test agent. QLFT methods are suitable for disposable and reusable half masks; they are not suitable for full-face masks
