Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) can be useful when employees may inhale dust, fumes, mist, gas, or vapor. The problem is that putting on a respirator alone does not guarantee the desired protection. For tight-fitting RPE, the seal between the respirator and the face is essential to its function.
This is where face fit testing comes in. It determines whether a specific respirator can form an adequate seal on an individual worker’s face. Understanding how it works, its certificate, and the importance of competent testing can be very helpful for employers.
What Is Face Fit Testing?
Face fit testing determines whether a respirator mask fits an individual because face shapes and sizes vary; one mask type may not fit everyone. The procedure shows that the chosen respirator type, model, and size are appropriate to ensure a proper seal. It does not guarantee that the same respirator will fit someone else.
Why Does the Fit Matter?
Respirators rely on a proper seal. If any gap exists between the wearer’s face and the facepiece, polluted air may enter through those gaps rather than being filtered properly. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends fit testing tight-fitting RPE during selection. Fit is an important factor in selecting respiratory protective equipment, as improper fit can reduce protection. It is not just a comfort issue; it is a key part of selecting respiratory protection.
What Happens During a Fit Test?
The exact process varies based on the type of test conducted. Fit testing is either qualitative or quantitative. The quantitative test provides a quantitative measure of how well the respirator seals to the wearer’s face. This value is called the fit factor.
According to HSE guidelines, each type of tight-fitting RPE has specific minimum fit factors if quantitative tests are conducted. If testing is required, the wearer may need to perform several exercises using the chosen respirator. The wearer does not perform this test while standing still.
Is a Face Fit Test Certificate Important?
A face fit test certificate or report may show proof that an employee completed a fit test for a certain type of respirator. But it does not prove that all respirators will fit that person. This fit test only covers the specific respirator and wearer involved. If the make, model, type, or size of the respirator changes, you may need a new fit test.
Test results should also include all necessary information to prove the test performed and the result obtained. HSE guides the basic information that must be included in a fit test report.
Who Should Carry Out the Testing?
Competence is essential when testing respiratory protective equipment. An incorrect test procedure can give a false sense of security about the level of protection provided to the employee. In HSE enforcement cases, employers have failed to ensure that a competent individual face-fit tests their tight-fitting RPE. For this reason, companies need to consider the tester’s competence and suitability before testing.
What About Facial Hair?
Facial hair is one element that may affect the fit of close-fitting respiratory protection equipment. Facial hair, such as beards, between the face and the area where the seal forms can prevent proper respirator fit. This is one reason employers should consider the individual wearer’s characteristics when choosing RPE.
Why Is Training Also Important?
Respirator testing is only one part of a good respiratory protection program. Employees must also understand how to wear, use, maintain, and check their respirators. Face fit testing training helps relevant individuals understand fit testing and how to perform it. It may be especially beneficial for organisations that need competent individuals to handle fit testing. You must know the proper testing procedures and methods that may affect the test result.
When Should a Test Be Repeated?
Fit testing should not be considered a lifetime pass for a specific worker. In case any changes that might affect the fit arise, for instance, changing brands or sizes of tight-fitting RPE, further fit testing will have to be done. Changes to the user’s facial characteristics will also affect the seal. Therefore, employers need procedures to determine whether current fit-test arrangements are appropriate.
Make Respiratory Protection a Proper Fit
The objective of a face fit test is simple: to determine whether the chosen tight-fitting respirator can achieve a sufficient face seal. However, this test is an essential component of respiratory protection. While a face fit test certificate can prove the test was completed, appropriate face fit testing training can help those conducting the tests gain the required knowledge and skills.
Train in Health and Safety Ltd offers health and safety training that focuses on the practical needs of workplaces. Companies aiming to improve respiratory protection can consider our face fit solutions to achieve the best results.