What is the requirement ?
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.
Which masks need to be tested ?
Face fit testing is required for all of the following types of masks:
- Disposable half masks
- Re-usable filter or cartridge half masks
What does the test involve ?
There are two types of test.
The qualitative test can only be carried out on half masks. The test takes around 20 minutes and involves wearing a hood over the head and shoulders. The tester sprays a bitter tasting solution into the hood whilst the delegate carries out a series of exercises, i.e. turning head from side to side. If the wearer can taste the solution then the mask does not fit correctly. – This is the test we carry out.
The quantitative test can be carried out on any type of mask. There are several different methods for this test. The most common method involves attaching the mask to a machine (a Portacount), which can detect whether airborne particles are passing into the mask through the seal. Again the test takes around 20 minutes and at the end of the test the machine gives a “pass” or “fail”.
How often should a fit test be carried out ?
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 faceseal area.
Some companies have a policy of retesting every one, two or three years (depending on level of risk).