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Colossians 1:14  
#1 Posted : 07 January 2016 07:37:57(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Colossians 1:14

JSP are saying in their report that they believe their RPE offers a valid alternative qualitative face fit test.

Does anybody know what the HSE think regarding their claim?

http://jsp.easyorder.eu/...TC-Report-online-PDF.pdf
descarte8  
#2 Posted : 07 January 2016 10:10:40(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
descarte8

First thoughts, this seems to be based upon a non-disposable, rubber sealed masks with changeable filters, where standard practice is to cover the filters and inhale to check there is a seal (on use), this system seems to be a small extension of that - not a problem.

Re-useable 1/2 masks are recognisably easier to achive a face seal with, than the majority of disposable paper based masks (P2 & 3), on which this system would not work.

If the question is, would you recommend using a re-useable 1/2 mask over a disposable paper mask, then the answer would always be yes.
As the question is, what does the HSE think, I would hazard a guess they would, given the manufacturers evidence, take this as an alternative to a qualitative fit test
A Kurdziel  
#3 Posted : 07 January 2016 10:19:50(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
A Kurdziel

Descarte8 wrote:
First thoughts, this seems to be based upon a non-disposable, rubber sealed masks with changeable filters, where standard practice is to cover the filters and inhale to check there is a seal (on use), this system seems to be a small extension of that - not a problem.

Re-useable 1/2 masks are recognisably easier to achive a face seal with, than the majority of disposable paper based masks (P2 & 3), on which this system would not work.

If the question is, would you recommend using a re-useable 1/2 mask over a disposable paper mask, then the answer would always be yes.
As the question is, what does the HSE think, I would hazard a guess they would, given the manufacturers evidence, take this as an alternative to a qualitative fit test

Only if there is evidence that employees are doing the tests and that are not trying to do them if they have a beard or something else that might reduce the efficacy of the masks.
in other words in practice I can't see the HSE accepting a simple stamen saying "self test your masks before use".
Note staff have to be trained to us these masks correctly. They are not wearing the masks for fun or just to keep us H&S bods happy. they re wearing them to protect themselves from a real risk to their health

Kate  
#4 Posted : 08 January 2016 08:55:21(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Kate

I don't think it follows either. It resembles a gadgetised 'fit check' much more than it does the 'fit test' and HSE sees both as requirements.
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