Face Fit Testing
Welcome to Total Safety, we prioritize your safety and comfort! Our expert team is here to assist with your Face Fit testing needs, ensuring that every wearer receives the proper fit for their tight-fitting respirators, whether at our locations or on-site.
If you are using RPE with tight-fitting facepieces you should make sure each wearer has a fit test. This is needed to ensure the selected facepiece can fit the wearer correctly.
Total Safety can support your Face Fit testing requirements, training and Fit Testing can either be facilitated at one of our locations or completed on-site.
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-face masks. Although this type of test is based on subjective detection and response by the wearer of the RPE, it is important that it is administered by a fit tester competent in using this method.
Quantitative fit testing (QNFT) provides a numerical measure of how well a facepiece seals against a wearer’s face; this is called a fit factor. These tests give an objective measure of face fit. QNFT methods are suitable for disposable and reusable half masks and full-face masks.
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Who needs a face fit test?In the UK the COSHH regulations stipulate that anyone who needs to wear a tight-fitting respirator whilst at work should receive a face fit test for the respirator they are using.
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What if my employee has a beard?Tight fitting respiratory protection is not suitable for those who have facial hair in the area the respirator seals against the face. Face fit testing should be carried out with the wearer in a clean-shaven state, and this is how the respirator should be worn whilst at work.
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How long does a face fit test take?We use the quantitative method of testing and allow 20 minutes per person per respirator.
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Will I get a certificate?Yes, we will print and leave a hard copy on site and also email across the electronic copy for your records.
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How long does the certificate last for?Our certificates are set to a two-year expiry. If through risk assessment you require something different speak to us prior to the testing.
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Do I need a face fit test to wear an FFP3 mask?Yes. These masks are tight fitting and should be face fit tested.
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Can you supply the equipment?Yes. Speak to us about your requirements and we can guide you on the products we know are top for performance and affordability.
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How many tests can you do in a day?We can do as many tests as you need us to. We have a number of team members who are Fit2Fit accredited and are able to take on large scale fit testing projects delivered over a short timeframe.