Fire Safe International Ltd

As a specialist in Respiratory Protection, Fire Safe International has been offering face mask fit testing support and services since 1998.

With close links to the Fit2fit accreditation scheme we are very well placed to ensure you are adequately protecting your workforce. "Face Fit Testing" still causes much confusion as there are several ways of meeting the current guidance.

Each test method has its pros and cons so if you are confused and would like some independent advice, call us now - 01743 761000.

Face Fit Testing is a means of assessing how well a respirator fits the face of a person.

If you issue safety boots or clothing to your staff, no doubt you issue sizes suitable for each individual. Respirators however are commonly "one size fits all". As every face is quite unique, this approach is often not acceptable, particularly when you consider the purpose of the mask and the consequences of it not fitting correctly. Current statistics suggest that as many as 12000 people die each year as a result of exposure to respiratory hazards in the workplace. Sadly, illnesses associated with respiratory hazards are often "long latency" and so the risks of a respirator not fitting an individual are often not fully realised at the time.

Fit Testing then is a means of confirming that the respirator in use is capable of protecting the individual.

There are two commonly used methods of confirming mask fit:

• Qualitative - This is perhaps the most common and is best understood as assessing the "Quality" of the fit. A strong tasting substance is used as a test agent and the basic principal is that if the person wearing the mask is unable to taste the agent, then the mask fits. This method can be very effective, especially as part of a wearer training programme and the equipment required to conduct this test is not expensive (£100-£130). This is however very subjective (it relies on taste) and so is not suitable for every individual. It also cannot be used for assessing the fit of full facemasks.
• Quantitative - This technique involves measuring the fit of a mask and "Quantifying" the result. It involves the use of computerised test equipment which measures mask leakage. There are a few types of test equipment available but by far the most common used is the TSI Portacount machine. This is able to measure small naturally occurring particles (pollen, sand, smoke, fly ash, etc). By sampling air from inside a mask whilst it is being worn and then measuring the number of particles present, it is possible to confirm if there is any leakage. This method is then not subjective at all and does identify very accurately how well a mask fits an individual. It is however a little less portable and requires a power supply, amongst other restrictions, not least of which the cost of the equipment (upwards from around £5000).

Fire Safe International has specialists in all methods and is able to carry out fit testing for you, or train you (as well as supply any necessary equipment) so that you can fit test your own personnel.

Choosing to fit test your own people carries with it a great deal of liability and so you may choose to contract our specialist services for this. Often, this may be part of a wearer training course, unless your staff have received adequate training elsewhere. We will help identify which of the above techniques is the most suitable for you and work with you to arrange the logistics of ensuring each of your team are tested individually Costs can vary according to the scale of work required, but typically £25-£30 per test is average.

Contact us now to discuss the most effective solution for you. Telephone 01743 761000.