Face Fits

Importance Of Face Fit Testing In The Workplace

Face Fit Testing is recognised by the Health & Surveillance Executive (HSE) as the only means of ensuring that employees have adequate protection through the use of properly-fitted respiratory protective equipment (RPE). Having face fit masks properly fitted is essential as your employees could be exposed to harmful chemicals, fumes and dust if leaks are present in masks, and other safety equipment. Simply having the equipment isn’t enough – it needs to be fit for purpose with hse face fit testing to ensure complete protection for your workforce.

Salutes team have undergone Face Fit Testing Training from Fire Safe International Ltd.

What Types Of Masks Require Face Fit Testing?

• Respirators
• Full face masks
• Filtering facepieces (disposable masks)
• Half masks

How Often Should Face Fit Testing Be Taken Out?

Naturally, the most effective time to carry out face fit testing is during the initial selection stage, so that you can ensure the user is given an adequate choice of RPE masks and models.

It’s Important To Re-Test If Any Of Your Employees:

• Has any significant weight changes
• Undergoes significant dental work
• Develops facial changes that affect the fitting of the mask
• New chemicals are introduced into the workplace
• Workplace environments change
• Workplace practices or equipment change

Facial Hair

Facial hair poses an issue in Face Fit Testing – in order for face fit dust masks to create an effective seal to the face, the user must be clean shaven. Any stubble, beards or facial hair compromises the seal – and loose fitting rpe puts the wearer at risk of breathing in harmful chemicals. Therefore, it is important to ensure Face Fit Testing is only carried out on those who are clean shaven; they should remain clean shaven at any time they wear the mask going forward.

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