Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about face fit testing, RPE, and our services.
For Employers
When should I provide RPE?
The law requires employers to prevent or control the exposure of employees to hazardous substances at work. RPE should only be used as a last choice of protection when working with hazardous substances such as gases, solvents, powdered chemicals, mists and sprays or entering a confined space.
You could need RPE while arranging other control measures, for clearing up a spill, for maintenance, during temporary failure of a control measure, for short one-off procedures, or when needed in addition to other control measures.
Why is RPE the last resort?
RPE is intrusive equipment — it can be uncomfortable, interfere with communication and vision, and can give a false sense of protection when not worn correctly. It only protects the wearer, whereas control measures at source protect all workers in the area. Consider other control measures before deciding upon RPE.
Can I rely on the CE-mark for selecting RPE?
No. CE marking confirms RPE meets minimum requirements but does not make it automatically suitable for your specific task. Employers are legally responsible for selecting the right RPE for the task, substance, work environment and the wearer.
What should I do before deciding to use RPE?
Use other measures for controlling exposure first. Priorities include: eliminate the hazardous substance, substitute to a safer alternative, use a safer form, enclose the task, modify the process, extract emissions, minimise the number of workers exposed, and minimise exposure time.
Can I rely on the CE-mark for selecting RPE?
No. CE marking confirms RPE meets minimum requirements but does not make it automatically suitable for your specific task. Employers are legally responsible for selecting the right RPE for the task, substance, work environment and the wearer.
What should I do before providing RPE to employees?
Assess the risks presented by exposure to hazardous substances, then identify the steps needed to adequately control the risks. If you decide to provide RPE, you need to: select the right RPE for the hazard, environment, task and wearer; inform and train users; ensure RPE is maintained per manufacturer's instructions; supervise wearers; and safely dispose of damaged or used RPE.
What should I do after providing RPE to employees?
For RPE to remain effective it should be integrated into operational procedures. Ensure control measures including RPE are properly used and not made ineffective by incorrect work practices. Ensure employees use RPE as trained and instructed. It is often best to give a choice of several correctly specified types so wearers can choose the one they prefer.
Where can I get detailed information on RPE?
HSE Guidance — HSG53 "Respiratory protective equipment at work — A practical guide" provides comprehensive information on all aspects of RPE selection, use and maintenance.
What is an RPE programme?
An RPE programme encapsulates all the elements of RPE use you need to ensure effectiveness. This includes: correctly selecting RPE, training for correct use, ensuring correct use with supervision, checking RPE before each use, maintaining per manufacturer's instructions, keeping records as required by law, correct storage, and correct disposal. Any shortcomings in one step could result in inadequate protection.
What are the requirements for fit testing?
Where RPE is used, it must provide adequate protection for individual wearers. A major cause of leaks is poor fit — tight-fitting facepieces need to fit the wearer's face to be effective. As people come in all shapes and sizes, it is unlikely that one type or size will fit everyone. Fit testing should be conducted by a competent person — the BSIF Fit2Fit scheme provides evidence of competency.
What should I do to effectively maintain RPE?
An effective maintenance system is essential. Always follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule including recommended replacement periods and shelf lives. Maintenance may include cleaning, examination, replacement, repair and testing. Simple maintenance can be done by the wearer, but intricate repairs should be carried out by a competent person.
Is face fit testing a legal requirement?
Under COSHH, Control of Asbestos, Control of Lead at Work and HSG53 regulations, all RPE at work requires you to ensure the selected RPE is adequate and suitable for the wearer, task and environment. To conform and provide evidence, a fit test is required.
For Employees
Why should I wear RPE?
RPE can protect your health and even save your life. Many gases, vapours and dust that cause serious damage to lungs and other parts of the body are invisible to the naked eye. Employees have a legal duty to use RPE properly whenever required, report any defects immediately, and participate in any training provided.
How do I wear a mask correctly?
In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and as trained by your employer. Your responsibilities include: putting the RPE on correctly, fit checking before entering hazardous areas, correctly taking it off outside the area, storing it as instructed, carrying out simple maintenance, and logging any defects noted during use.
Why is facepiece fit important?
People come in all shapes and sizes — it is unlikely that one type or size of facepiece will fit everyone. The performance of tight-fitting facepieces depends on good contact between your skin and the face seal. A poor fit significantly reduces protection and can put your life in danger.
How do I store my mask?
Store RPE according to the manufacturer's instructions. RPE left lying around in dirty areas increases the risk of exposure due to contamination on the inside of the facepiece, and parts deteriorating from exposure to dirt, solvents, vapours, oil, UV light and sunlight.
Still Have Questions?
Get in touch — we're happy to help with any questions about face fit testing or RPE.