Qualitative Face Fit Testing of FFP Masks and Half Face Respirators

What is the reason for qualitative face fit testing ?

The supporting guidance for COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), CLaW (Control of Lead at Work), CAR (Control of Asbestos Regulations) and the Ionising Radiation Regulations, stipulate that fit testing should be carried out as part of the initial mask selection process. This ensures that inadequately fitting face pieces are not selected for use.

Where respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is used, it must be able to provide adequate protection for individual wearers. RPE cannot protect the wearer if it leaks. A major cause of leaks is a poor fit (Recent research indicates that up to half of all respiratory protective equipment used does not afford the wearer the level of protection assumed) so tight-fitting facepieces need to fit the wearer’s face to be effective.

As people come in all sorts of shapes and sizes it is unlikely that one particular type or size of RPE facepiece will fit everyone. Fit testing will ensure that the equipment selected is suitable for the wearer.

Which masks require qualitative fit testing?

Qualitative face fit testing is required for all of the following types of masks:

• Disposable half masks (FFP dust masks)
• Re-usable filter or cartridge half masks

What does the qualitative test involve ?

The qualitative test can only be carried out on half masks. The test takes around 20 minutes and involves the person being tested wearing a hood over the head and shoulders. The tester sprays a bitter (or sometimes sweet) tasting solution into the hood whilst the delegate carries out a series of 60 second exercises:-

• Normal breathing;
• Heavy breathing – walking/stepping with the mask on;
• Turning head from side to side;
• Moving head up and down;
• Talking;
• Heavy breathing – walking/stepping with the mask on;
• Normal breathing.

If the wearer can taste the solution then the mask does not fit correctly.

How often should a qualitative fit test be performed ?

The test should be carried out 'regularly' or if the wearer:

• gains or loses weight,
• undergoes significant dental work, or
• develops facial changes, i.e. scarring, moles etc. in the face seal area.

Some companies have a policy of retesting every one, two or three years (depending on level of risk).

Who can carry out a qualitative face fit test ?

A competent person should carry out a face fit test. Competency can be proven by accreditation to the BSIF Fit2Fit Fit Testers Accreditation Scheme, however this is not compulsory. Manufacturers of masks or fit test equipment may also provide competency training and evaluation and proof of these may be sufficient to prove competency.

Qualitative face fit test record keeping

A record should be kept of the fit test and this should clearly state the manufacturer of the mask, model and size (if appropriate) of the mask tested. Records should be kept up to date and made available for inspection if required.

Where to buy qualitative face kit test kits?

Face fit test kits and replacement solutions can be purchased at dustmasksdirect.co.uk.

Useful links

HSE - Face Fit Testing Basics
3M Face Fit Test Guide