01 Feb Online Face Fit Test
This week we had an enquiry for an online face fit test. But, what is an online face fit test and is it possible to do one?
We have been conducting face fit tests for over a decade. In that time we have been asked many questions. During Covid and at it’s height we were regularly asked for online face fit tests. Or, whether we could offer it remotely. Until recently I thought that this answer was obvious, however, after a conversation this week I now realise this is not obvious at all.
This blog is about an online face fit test. Perhaps before we delve deeper I need to explain what a face fit test is. This will help to explain more.
What is a face fit test
A face fit test, for those in the know, is simple. But for some, who have just been tasked with arranging one, or getting quotes it is daunting. Following a recent conversation I want to clarify that a face fit test is not a written questionnaire. People are not expected to sit through a test where they answer a series of questions. When we talk about face fit testing or a fit test or face fit we refer to a service. In simple terms a face fit test is when someone wears a protective mask and we test it to make sure it protects the wearer.
Can you do an online face fit test
In short, the answer is no. To conduct a face fit test we need to test a mask whilst someone wears it. Sadly, it is not possible to conduct this service online. We need to see the person face to face.
What types of face fit test are there
The types of face fit testing that we offer are Qualitative (taste test) or Quantitative (APC). The two tests are very different. Both types involve the wearer completing a series of exercises whilst wearing a mask. By subjecting the wearer to certain exercises will test the seal of the mask. The results depend on the test method. We have detailed more below with each test type.
Do you have to be qualified to test people
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advise that is it a legal requirement: “that workers using tight fitting respiratory protective equipment (face pieces/masks) must be fit tested by a competent person. This requirement is detailed in CoSHH regulations”. But what makes a face fit tester competent? In HSE document INDG479 it states: “Fit testing should be conducted by a competent person. Competence can be demonstrated by accreditation under the Fit2Fit RPE Fit Test Providers Accreditation Scheme. This scheme has been developed by the BSIF, together with industry stakeholders, and is supported by HSE.”
With this in mind, our team at Training and Testing Services are fit2fit accredited to conduct face fit testing. Our customers can be confident in on our ability to help them achieve compliance with the law.
What type of test do I need
It will depend on the mask type that you have. If you are unsure which method to choose then the pictogram below will help. As a general rule we offer quantitative face fit testing as standard. This is a much more accurate form of testing and is the preferred method. Further details of each test method are below.
Qualitative Face Fit Test
A simple taste test that can be used to test disposable or reusable half mask respirators only. The qualitative face fit test is a subjective test, we are relying on an honest response from the test subject and their ability to detect a taste. If you require face fit testing for full face mask respirators then these must be tested by the quantitative method.
Quantitative Face Fit Test
Can be used on all respirator types, full face, reusable half masks and disposables. The test requires the use of an ambient particle counting device (AccuFIT9000 or TSI PortaCount) this is an objective test, we are not relying on any input from the test subject, the machine determines the pass or fail. The quantitative test involves the candidate wearing a respirator of the make, model and size that they are to use in the workplace, and this is connected to a test machine that counts the particulate in the test room and the particulate within the respirator and calculates, from this information, a fit-factor.
Do you train the people you test
Anybody who wears Respiratory Protective Equipment (even disposable masks) requires training, the responsibility for this is the employers. To help you meet your legal obligations on training we will provide you with access to an online webinar which needs to be watched by everybody who requires a face fit test and particular attention should be paid to the donning and doffing procedures. We can test all types of tight fitting Respiratory Protective Equipment: Full-face mask respirators, SCBA, re-usable half masks, disposable masks etc.
Conclusion
If you came to this blog looking for an online face fit test then I hope we have answered your query. Our face fit testing team cover the whole of mainland UK. So contact us if we can help with your face fit testing requirements.
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