Face Fit Testing: What you need to know
Feb 9 2024 11:53AM
If you work in an environment where respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is required, such as construction, manufacturing, or healthcare, you may have heard of face fit testing.
What is Face Fit Testing?
Face fit testing is a method of checking the seal of a tight-fitting respirator on the wearer’s face, such as a disposable or reusable half mask. It is important to ensure that the respirator provides adequate protection against airborne hazards, such as dust, fumes, gases, or viruses. If the respirator does not fit properly, it can allow contaminated air to leak into the breathing zone, reducing the effectiveness of the respirator and increasing the risk of exposure.
There are two types of face fit testing: qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative face fit testing involves exposing the wearer to a bitter substance with a mask fitted and whilst performing a series of exercises. If the wearer can taste or smell the substance, it means that the respirator is not fitted properly and there is a leakage around the face seal. Qualitative face fit testing is suitable for low-risk environments where the required protection factor is up to 10. However, it has some limitations, such as being subjective, relying on the wearer’s response, and not being applicable for full face masks or high-risk environments.
Why is face fit testing important?
Face fit testing is important because it can improve the effectiveness and comfort of RPE. A good fit means that you will breathe in clean air, it also means that you will feel more comfortable and confident wearing the RPE.
A poor fit can reduce the protection offered by RPE. If there are any gaps or leaks in the seal of the mask, contaminated air can enter the lungs and cause health problems.
How do I know if I need a face fit test?
You need a face fit test if you wear any types of tight-fitting RPE for work such as:
- Disposable half masks
- Re-usable filter or cartridge half masks
- Powered respirators
- Full face filter or cartridge masks
- Escape set masks
- Full breathing apparatus masks
These types of RPE all include filtering face pieces (FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 disposables), half masks and full-face masks.
The best time to do a face fit test is at the initial selection stage, when individual users can be given a choice of adequate models of RPE. You should ensure that the make, model, type, and size of facepiece that they wore when they had their successful fit test is made available for their use.
If an employee wears more than one type of tight-fitting RPE, then each type of RPE should be fit tested.
What do I need to do after a successful face fit test?
After performing a successful face fit test, you should expect your RPE to be ready for use within 24 hours. You should also check your RPE regularly for any signs of damage or wear that may affect its performance or comfort.
You should also follow some simple steps to ensure that your RPE fits well every time you wear it:
- Ensure that you are clean shaven
- Clean your hands before putting on your RPE.
- Maintain, clean, and store your RPE properly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Damaged or dirty RPE can affect the fit and the performance of the device.
- Perform a seal check every time you put on or take off your RPE by following these steps:
- A positive seal check involves blocking the exhalation valve of the respirator and gently exhaling. The respirator should bulge slightly and no air should escape from the edges of the facepiece.
- A negative seal check involves blocking the inhalation valves of the respirator and gently inhaling. The respirator should collapse slightly and no air should enter from the edges of the facepiece.
Face fit testing is an essential part of ensuring that you have adequate protection from respiratory hazards when working with RPE. It can improve both your health and safety as well as reduce discomfort and fatigue.
Are you looking for a reliable and professional service for qualitative face fit testing and training? If so, look no further than Arion. We are a leading provider of face fit testing and train the trainer courses for face fitting in Lincolnshire. We have a team of competent and experienced fit testers and trainers who can help you ensure that your Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) fits well and protects you from respiratory hazards. Whether you need a face fit test for yourself or your employees, or you want to become a qualified face fit tester, we have the right course for you. Contact us today for more information and a free quote.