Face Fit Testing
Qualitative and quantitative testing to ensure your RPE provides maximum protection. Fully Fit2Fit accredited across all three methods.
What is Face Fit Testing?
There are two methods of Face Fit Testing — Quantitative and Qualitative — both approved by the HSE. Face Fit Testing must be carried out by an experienced Fit2Fit accredited fit tester or a competent person trained to the HSE standard.
Both methods recreate a working environment and test the Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) to ensure it fits the wearer correctly, leading to a good seal while they are working. The candidate performs simple exercises — normal and deep breathing, head side to side, up and down, counting aloud, and bending over. These are the moments when RPE is most likely to fail and leak. During the Quantitative test, the candidate will also walk or step to increase their breathing rate whilst performing these exercises.
All tests take approximately 15 minutes, depending on failure. Once the candidate passes, they receive a certificate showing their details, RPE details, and date tested. For more details on test exercises and pass levels, refer to the HSE INDG 479 protocol.
Qualitative Testing
Qualitative tests rely on a wearer's subjective assessment of face seal leakage. During a series of test exercises, the wearer's sense of taste detects face seal leakage of a test agent.
Qualitative tests can be employed for fit testing FFPs (disposables) and half masks.
Quantitative Testing
Quantitative tests can be used to fit test all types of tight-fitting masks including FFPs (disposables), half and full face masks. They provide an objective assessment and a direct numerical result called a Fit Factor.
The most widely-used method is the Particle Counting method using the TSI PortaCount Plus, which measures ambient particles inside and outside the face piece.
Nationwide Service
We Fit RPE are based in South East England, but able to carry out Face Fit Testing on-site across the UK. We are registered members of the British Safety Industry Federation and as fully Fit2Fit accredited respiratory support experts, will ensure that the test is carried out correctly and a report is generated detailing the fit test results.
Over our 20+ years in the industry, we've established ourselves as reputable and trusted professionals in the space.
Book Your Face Fit Test
On-site testing across the UK, or at our Essex facility. Same-day response guaranteed.
Call us on 01268 520962