It is required for half face dust masks. There are two types of RPE fit testing that I know of: qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative fit testing is a pass/fail test based on the wearer’s subjective assessment of any leakage from the face seal region, by sensing the introduction of a test agent. These tests are suitable for half masks. They are not suitable for full face masks. Examples of qualitative fit testing methods are: ■ method based on bitter- or sweet-tasting aerosol; ■ method based on odour compounds. The good things about this process is you cam buy the kits and carry out tests yourself after reading the instructions and appropriate training, depending on the provider they may throw in training for free or some come with a training DVD. You can get the kits for around £150 and are pretty easy to use.

I agree with above Decimomal. One of my clients last year was similarly given an invoice under FFI. I found the best way forward was to use the supplier of the face masks to arrange suitable face fit training with a qualified & competent person, not only to myself but also to the client who received the FFI - very cost effective and it also included the kit for onward face fit testing to the clients employees - up to 50.

hi just a newbie to the forum, just picking up on the point regarding face fit testing and beards we are seeing increasing numbers of beards appearing across the site as the trend grows, how are other businesses managing this I know of sites where employees are sent home to shave.

If you carry out a risk assessment and decide based on that, that the best way to control that risk by the use of RPE, even if it is a half mask (so called dust mask) you must demonstrate that you have complied with COSHH in particular reg 9 which states that you have to ensure that the controls in use actual work. So the HSE insist that you carry out face fit testing to a) demonstrate the controls will work and to make sure that the employees actually know how to put on the RPE. Usually for a half face mask you carry out a qualitative test which involves squirting foul tasting stuff into peoples’ faces. If they taste it, that shows that the mask is not working. The quantitative test actually measures the particles of particles inside the face mask and compares it with the number of particles in the atmosphere. This gives you a number which why it is call quantitative It can be used for all types of negative pressure masks, including full face masks. All negative pressure masks work because as you breath in the mask seals around your face keeping the nasties out. This is why you can’t have a beard when you use a negative face mask, as it will break the seal. Alternatively you can use positive pressure hoods and the like. These suck in fresh air through a filter and blow it past you face. You don’t need to face fit test these and you can use it with a beard but they are pricey to buy (but of course they are not disposable and can be reused) and you have to wear a powered filter unit usually on a belt.

I rarely have a problem with beards when carrying out face fit testing. People's face shapes is another matter!

Slightly confused, if they do not have a 'seal' how do protect the wearer?