Face Fit Testing

Bitter/Sweet Tasting Face Fit Test | Odour Fit Test Method (Isoamyl Acetate) | Face Fit Test Advice

Since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act, employers and The Health and Safety Executive have aspired in the endorsement of safety practices, within the work place and even more so in the prevention of respiratory disease, associated to COSHH Regulations 2002.

The wearing of masks or Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) has changed considerably over the years and it is now a requirement by law that Face Fit Testing is carried out, so that any individual has the correct type and correct fitting mask, that will help protect employees from hazardous dust, chemicals or vapours within the work place.

Euro Training Services Limited are qualified to deliver qualitative Face Fit Testing to companies who issue their employees with filtering, fold flat face piece masks and half masks.

We can incorporate testing alongside courses such as Abrasive Wheel Training, Safe Use of Floor Saws or Concrete Cutting. In fact to any industry or job where there is risk of lung diseases or respiratory disorder that may affect employees during their working duties.

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Bitter/Sweet Tasting Face Fit Test

The employee is fit tested while wearing the respirator inside a hood, while the test solution (either bitter or sweet) is sprayed into the hood. If the weather detects the taste of the aerosol during the test, then the fit is unsatisfactory and the fit test is failed. During this test the wearer will carry out a number of specified exercises. It is less costly when compared to quantitive fit testing methods.

Types of respirators that can be fit tested with this method include:

• Filtering face pieces FFP1, FFP2, FFP3
• Half face mask respirators fitted with a particulate or combined filter
• Re-testing is required every 3 years

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Odour Fit Test Method (Isoamyl Acetate)

The person is fit tested while wearing the respirator inside an enclosure, which contains a known concentration of isoamyl acetate (also known as banana oil). If the wearer detects the smell of the isoamyl acetate during the test then the fit is unsatisfactory and the fit test is failed. During this test the wearer will carry out a number of specified exercises.

Types of respirators that can be fit tested with this method include:

• Half mask respirators fitted with a type A organic vapour filter

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Face Fit Test Advice

• Testing can take up to 20 minutes per person
• Employee should be clean shaven, ensuring a tight fit seal
• Do not eat or drink 20 min prior to test
• Employers should be aware prior to testing if employees may have existing respiratory problems
• Re-testing is required every 3 years
• For more information, please visit the Health and Safety Executive website for Face Fit Testing or contact our company with your enquiry.

 

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