RPE Fit Testing requirements

RPE Face Fit testing is a process for ensuring a specific make, model and size of tight-fitting protective face masks are suitable to  the individual wearer’s facial features and that the chosen mask seals correctly to the wearer’s face. A Face Fit test will also help to identify unsuitable face masks which should not be used by the individual. 

 Why does a Face Fit Test need to be carried out?

 Firstly, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) state that a Face Fit Test must be carried out on any worker who is using tight fitting RPE to protect them from a hazard. It is a legal requirement for employers to make sure their employees are face fitted for any tight fitting mask they use.

The performance of tight-fitting face masks relies on a good contact between the wearer’s skin and the face seal of the face mask. Individuals facial structures vary significantly in shape and size so it is unlikely that one particular make, model or size of RPE face mask will fit everyone. 

Inadequate fit of a face mask will significantly reduce the protection provided to the wearer. Any reduction in protection may lead to immediate or long term ill health or can even put the RPE wearer’s life in danger. 

Who should be used to conduct RPE face mask Fit Testing?

 The HSE state that face mask fit testing should be carried out by an individual who is competent in face fit testing. 

So how does an individual prove they are competent to face fit test?

Under the Fit2Fit scheme, an individual offering face fitting of RPE and who seeks to be qualified as competent, must pass a written test on respiratory protection guidance and a specific written test on face fitting methodology before undertaking an observed practical assessment of a face fit against the accepted HSE / Fit2Fit guidance and syllabus. This is the accepted method of evaluating the competence of an individual carrying out this vital service. Historically, of those who apply for qualification there is a failure rate approaching 30%!

Based on reliable information it is believed that in the UK there are significant numbers of people who are offering RPE face fitting. Are they competent? The number of qualified competent individuals is at the end of 2023 approximately 490, so it is vital that the employer discharges their responsibility in managing a respiratory protection policy, by ensuring they demand evidence of competency. The easiest way to see evidence of competency….Demand Fit2Fit!

What is the Fit2Fit Scheme?

 The Fit2Fit Scheme administered by the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) and supported actively by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has a very clear mission:

“To improve the respiratory health of those wearing tight fitting RPE through being fit tested by a Fit2Fit accredited provider”.  

The Fit2Fit Qualification Scheme has for some years been premised on two key HSE publications HSG 53 – Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work: A Practical Guide and INDG479 the specific guidance on face fitting utilising accepted methodology.  In addition Fit2Fit has produced Companion documents covering the Qualitative method and Quantitative methods using Ambient Particle Counting and Controlled Negative Pressure.

The HSE took the view that as the regulator it must retain the responsibility for what must be done in face fitting and the steps required to carry out an effective face fit. However, HSE decided that the Fit2Fit Scheme was best placed to take the role of informing industry how this should be carried out.

 Where can you find a Competent & Qualified Face Fit Tester?

The easiest way to identify and source a Competent & Qualified Face Fit Tester is to use the Fit2Fit Scheme website, all qualified fit testers are listed with their contact details, method of qualification and date of expiry of their qualification.

Go to www.fit2fit.org/find-a-tester

Not only can you find the full list of Qualified Face Fit Testers but you will also find further information on Fit Testing by using the ‘Resources’ page. It features documents that can be downloaded for free that will help in your understanding of the fit testing process.