Safety Training
Aims:
The Face Fit test service helps companies comply with legislation and industry regulations. Shorcontrol Safety have dedicated dates to facilitate individuals to have their RPE face fit tests done. Our team utilises the TSI Portacount Pro testing machine to ensure accurate and reliable results. (Note - this is a Face Fit Testing service- Not a training course)
Course Content:
Why fit-test?
Most types of RPE, whether they be disposable FFP2/FFP3 masks or ½ or full-face masks depend on the edges of the mask sealing to the wearer’s face. If this seal isn’t present, contaminants can bypass the filtering mechanisms of the mask and get straight to the lungs of the wearer.
What many people don’t realise is that a single size, type or style of face mask is unlikely to fit the wide variety of faces present in the typical workplace. Quantitative face-fit testing can determine the integrity of the fit accurately, and if necessary, a more suitable size or type of mask can be found that fits correctly. This should be done before the person is in a position where their health depends upon it.
In addition, people’s facial profiles can change over time, from the normal processes of aging, or fluctuations in weight, surgery etc. A mask that fits well one year may not the next – this is why face-fit testing should be carried out on a regular basis, preferably annually.
In the event that you may be required to wear an RPE mask as part of work activities you will be supplied with a mask. In order for these masks (RPE) to protect you adequately it is very important that they provide a tight-fitting seal over your nose and mouth.
A variety of types and sizes of masks are available and fit testing will check that the specific mask selected provides a tight seal to offer the required protection. Another reason for fit testing is to ensure that you know how to properly put on and wear your mask.
The mask will provide little protection if it is not worn correctly.
How does a fit-test work?
A quantitative fit test is a short (15 – 20 minute) procedure, that is easily performed in a relatively clean area such as an office or admin area. The basic principle is determination of the number of airborne particles inside the mask compared to outside the mask, and hence how effective the mask is. The person to be tested wears their usual RPE, with a small adapter added that allows us to measure the particle density inside the mask. We then ask the user to perform a short sequence of simple exercises designed to stress test the seal, such as turning the head to the side. While doing these exercise we continue to measure the particle density inside and outside the mask simultaneously. The ratio of these gives the fit factor, which essentially tells us how well the mask is performing. If the fit factor is lower than required for the particular type of PPE, then a more suitable type must be found.
Joining advice sheet for staff to be Quantitatively Fit Tested…
What will the fit test involve?
The fit test method determines adequate fit by comparing the content of the environmental air with that inside the mask and calculating a true fit factor. The Portacount is an ambient aerosol fit tester. It uses the microscopic particles that exist in ambient air to measure the fit factor directly.
The whole process should take about 20 minutes, and, in the end, you will be told if you pass or fail fit testing for the specific mask selected for you. If you fail the test it will need to be repeated, perhaps with a different size or type of mask which may offer better protection.
Your fit test will need to be repeated if your weight changes significantly, if you undergo substantial dental work, or if you develop any swellings or scars on your face.
What do I do to prepare for the fit test?
You should not eat, drink (except plain water) or chew gum for at least 30 minutes before the test or smoke (vaping) for 60 minutes before the test. A fit test will not give reliable results if there is hair growth in the area where the mask meets your face, as this will prevent a good seal between the mask and the skin. Men should therefore be clean shaven for the fit test, and the same rule would apply when wearing the mask on a day-to-day basis.
You should be able to fit your mask in the manner in which you have been trained and you should be able to carry out a pre-use fit check; if you have any problems with this the person carrying out your fit test can assist you.
If you normally wear protective goggles, a hard hat or spectacles when you wear your mask you may be asked to wear these during the fit test. During the test you will be asked to carry out breathing exercises and simple movements of the head and neck. If you have any medical condition that may prevent you from performing these procedures, then you should bring them to the attention of the fit tester and your employer.
A fit test on your own mask will only be carried out if it is clean and in good condition as a contaminated mask may expose the fit tester to hazardous substances.
What if I normally wear more than one type of respirator?
If you need to wear more than one type of tight-fitting mask for your job, then you should be fit tested for each type of mask.
What will I be told at the end of the fit test?
When you have completed the fit test, you will be told if you have obtained a pass or a fail. A pass means that the mask is suitable for you. You or your employer will be issued with a fit test report, which should be retained.
If you have not been given a copy of the report, you can ask for a copy from your employer. A failed fit test may indicate that the mask does not fit you properly.
What will happen if I fail a fit test?
The fit tester should ask you to refit the mask and repeat the fit test. If a better fit is not obtained you may be asked to try on a different size or type of mask and repeat the fit test. You should not use a mask that does not fit you properly.
Will I be able to move employment without having to have another fit test?
If you change your employer but still continue to wear the same mask or same mask model and size you should not have to be retested, your new employer, however, may wish for you to have another fit test.
When should a fit test be carried out?
A fit test should be carried out:
- As part of the initial selection of RPE.
- Where an untested face piece is already in place.
- In the course of respirator fit training.
- A repeat fit test should be conducted:
- As required by an effective RPE programme (it is recommended that repeat tests are conducted at least annually).
- If the wearer experiences significant weight gain or loss.
- If the wearer undergoes substantial dental work.
- If the wearer develops any facial changes (scars, moles etc) around the face seal area.
- Fit test records should be stored by the employer. These records must be kept available for inspection on request.
