Face Fit Testing has become a legal requirement in the UK when wearing a tight or close fitting mask. This is due to the rise in ill health due to the inhalation of dust, fumes, mists and vapours with irreversible effect.
“If RPE is not worn properly, it will not provide the required protection.”
(Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work, HSE)
Here are 5 reasons why you need a Face Fit Test:
It is required by law
Anybody who wears a tight or close fitting mask to work is legally required to undergo a face fit test. GEM Compliance Training then provide a certificate to show that the mask has and wearer have adequate levels of protection. Regulations such as COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) state that face fit testing should be a part of the initial mask selection process.
You need a new mask
When purchasing new face masks, employers may be tempted to buy their RPE in bulk. However as everyone has a different face shape, a one-size-fits-all approach could leave some workers exposed to the effects of harmful dust and chemicals. Face fit testing can be carried out in large groups for convenience, and by taking the extra time the employer can comply with regulations and keep staff protected.
Safeguarding your Health
Face fit testing is designed to provide workers with the best protection against the effects of hazardous materials. It can ensure the best possible seal to your face, reducing the chances of any dangerous particles entering the mask and being inhaled. You can’t be sure of your mask’s effectiveness without it being tested by a competent, experienced testing operative.
Your face has significantly changed since your last test
The initial process isn’t the only time in which you might need a face fit test. If your face shape changes a considerable amount, for example if you obtain an injury where the seal is located or if you lose or put on weight, it can affect the level of protection offered.
You haven’t been tested for a long time
It is recommended that you have regular face fit tests. These should take place every 1-3 years to ensure that your mask is still providing you with the correct level of protection. Often, subtle changes to the face might seem unnoticeable. However, they can become significant over time, making your equipment less effective.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) aims to improve the standards of workers. They state that RPE “should be suitable for the intended use” and it “should be properly stored, cleaned and checked regularly to ensure it remains effective.”
Here at GEM, we provide Face Fit Testing for FFP1, FFP2 & FFP3 disposable and half face masks. We can support with Face Fit Testing at our Bradford and Hull centres or we can come out to your workplace.
If you would like to talk further about the Face Fit Testing we offer, don’t hesitate to contact us on (01274) 752777 or alternatively email us your requirements to info@gemcompliancetraining.co.uk
GEM Online Training Courses
We also offer a variety of online training courses covering many areas including Food Safety/Hygiene, Health and Safety, Fire Safety, Manual Handling, Safeguarding and many other courses supporting working industries within Healthcare, Adult & Childcare settings and Business settings. The majority of our online training courses are either IOSH, RoSPA, IATP, CPD, IIRSM, IFE, Laser, ILM & ETA approved courses.
Click here for more details about booking on to one of our online training courses or watch the video below for more details
