HealthSCREEN UK
Face Fit Testing For RPE
At Healthscreen, we offer both qualitative and quantitative face fit testing for respiratory protective equipment (RPE). Face fit testing is essential to ensure that the RPE is suitable for the wearer, protecting them from harmful substances in the workplace. Our testing is carried out by trained professionals and can be completed on-site for your convenience.
How We Support You
Our Face Fit testing service offers both qualitative and quantitative testing methods to ensure that the RPE fits securely and provides the necessary protection. During the testing process, our qualified professionals conduct a series of tests to assess the fit of the mask and verify its effectiveness in preventing the ingress of harmful substances. By accurately evaluating the fit of the mask, we help you safeguard the health and well-being of your employees in hazardous work environments.
Qualitative Face Fit testing
Qualitative testing is suitable for disposable/reusable half masks and takes up to 20 minutes to complete. It consists of a sensitivity test and a fit test. The sensitivity test is to confirm that the wearer can detect the test agent, which is sprayed into a test hood. 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 while the wearer is carrying out a series of exercises designed to simulate movement expected in the workplace. If the wearer can taste or smell the test agent at any time, this indicates a failure – the mask does not fit.
Quantitative Testing
Quantitative testing is suitable for all masks and takes up to 40 minutes to complete. The most commonly used method is ‘particle counting’ using a machine called a TSI Portacount. Particle counting counts the number of microscopic dust particles in the ambient air and compares this to the number of dust particles inside the mask. During the test, the wearer is carrying out a series of exercises designed to simulate movement expected in the workplace. If the machine detects particles leaking into the mask, then this indicates that the test is a failure.
Main Benefits
Face fit testing is a legal requirement and ensures that RPE is suitable for the wearer, protecting them from harmful substances in the workplace. By ensuring that your employees have properly fitted RPE, you are not only meeting your legal obligations but also promoting a safe and healthy working environment.
Ensuring Regulatory Compliance
Compliance with regulations is crucial when it comes to protecting employees from respiratory hazards. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and other regulations require employers to provide appropriate RPE to employees working in environments where respiratory hazards exist. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also places a legal duty on employers to provide a safe working environment. By offering Face Fit Testing for RPE, organisations demonstrate their commitment to complying with these regulations and ensuring the safety and well-being of their employees.
FAQ:
Any employee who uses RPE as a control measure to protect against hazardous substances in the workplace must have face fit testing.
Face fit testing should be carried out as part of the initial selection process and should be repeated at least annually or if there is a change in the type of mask or the facial characteristics of the wearer.
Qualitative testing takes up to 20 minutes, while quantitative testing takes up to 40 minutes.
Yes, face fit testing is a legal requirement under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.
Ensure that your employees have properly fitted RPE to protect them from harmful substances in the workplace. Contact Healthscreen today to schedule face fit testing for your employees.
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