Face fit testing is aimed at those who are required to wear half face or filtering facepieces as part of their role.

NOTES:

Delegates attending must be clean shaven (HSE define this as shaved in the last eight hours). If you are not clean shaven, you will not be fit tested.

Delegates must bring their own respirators for fit testing.

Delegates are advised to bring:

An alternative type or size of RPE to the test in case the primary RPE fails

All types of RPE used, if more than one type of RPE is used for different tasks

Any other PPE used with RPE to the test (e.g. eye protection) so we can check for compatibility

Where Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is used as a control measure at work, health and safety legislation requires that it is adequate and suitable. To ensure any RPE selected provides adequate protection the Approved Code of Practices, which support the Control of Substance Hazardous to Health, the Control of Asbestos Regulations and the Control of Lead at Work, requires tight-fitting RPE to be fit tested.

Fit testing is a method of checking that tight-fitting facepieces match the wearer's facial features and seals adequately to their face.

NOTE:

We cannot fit test full face respirators. This requires quantitative fit testing which SSG do not offer.

If half face reusable RPE is to be tested it must be fitted with a particulate filter (P1,2, or 3).  Fit testing cannot be carried out with a gas or vapour filter fitted.

All fit testing is conducted by competent persons in accordance with HSE guidance note INDG 479.

Each test lasts approximately 20 minutes. This may be longer if the wearer fails the initial test.

Fit testing will include:

• A brief explanation of the need for fit testing

• An explanation of the fit test procedure

• Correct fitting of RPE and how to self-fit check

• Guidance on maintenance of RPE

• Fit testing

Delegates who pass a fit test will receive a certificate to show fit testing has been carried out, which is valid for three years.

Repeat fit testing

HSG 53 (RPE at work) states that it is good practice to have a system in place that ensures you carry out repeat fit testing of RPE on a regular basis. You should always conduct a repeat fit test if the wearer:

Loses or gains weight

Undergoes any substantial dental work

Develops any facial changes (for example scars or moles) around the face seal area