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Face Fit Testing - Fit2Fit Accreditation

Green PM's Health and Safety Consultant, Helen Doolan, has recently qualified as a RPE Face Fit Tester. The course Helen undertook is accredited by Fit2Fit and was a formal assessment process involving a written multiple choice exam and an assessment through a practical demonstration of face fitting which she passed with a distinction. There are two types of Face Fit testing, quantitive and qualitative and Helen trained in the qualitative method.

Qualitative fit testing (QLFT) is a pass/fail test based on the wearer’s subjective assessment of any leakage through the face seal region by detecting the introduction of bitter- or sweet-tasting aerosol as a test agent. QLFT methods are suitable for disposable and reusable half masks; they are not suitable for full-facemasks. Although this type of test is based on subjective detection and responseby the wearer of the RPE, it is important that it is administered by a fit tester competent in using this method.

Said Helen

'It is a legal requirement that workers using tight fitting respiratory protective equipment (face pieces/masks) must be fit tested by a competent person. This requirement is detailed in CoSHH regulations but research shows that a significant amount of the RPE in use does not offer the user the expected level of protection because it does not fit properly.'

In April 2019 the HSE published their latest guidelines on face fitting (HSE INDG 479) This guide gives advice on fit testing for the employer and those conducting fit tests.This guide provides information on fit test methods, information on what can be achieved from a fit test and the core information to be included in a fit test report. It can be downloaded free from the HSE website.

Please contact Green Project Management for more information on our Health & Safety Services.

Image by njssafety.com

 

 

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