Good Morning All, I'm just after a bit of advice, its been mentioned this morning that as per HSG 53 our guys need to be fit tested for disposable masks, this is all new to me, but it clearly states in HSG 53 page 36 this needs to be done. However I am unsure what the fit testing procedure is for these types of mask. I'd be most grateful if someone can enlighten me on how they undertake this in their business? Regards.

There are two types of fit tests: Qualitative and Quantitative fit tests Qualitative fit testing is a simple pass/fail test based on the wearer's subjective assessment of the leakage, via the face seal region, of a test agent. These tests are relatively simple to perform and are suitable for half-masks and filtering face piece (disposable) respirators. A qualitative fit test is not suitable for full-face RPE. Examples of qualitative fit test methods: method based on bitter or sweet-tasting aerosol; Method based on odour compounds Quantitative fit testing provides a numerical measure of the fit and generates a 'fit-factor number'. These tests give an objective measure of face fit. They require specialised equipment and are more sophisticated than qualitative methods. These methods should be used for full-face RPE and can be used for half-masks and disposable respirators. Also within HSG53 there is a wear time of one hour assigned to any none powered respirator so after one hour the wearer must take a break although it does not state the time associated to the break period? Hope this helps you out

Hi Owen, I have gone through this and at present I am testing all our company for FFP3 masks. I got hold of our regular supplier and he arranged to come and see us and train me and our other depot manager to become a fit tester (FOC) we then brought a fit test kit, around £100 but will do at least 75-100 operatives. We then buy the masks from him as well. If you require anymore info PM me. Regards Shaun

I have been trained in the qualitative and tested approximately 100 construction operatives. The best mask on the market is the Alpha Solway 3030v as everyone passed within 2 attempts over a month period, my SMART Objective. The 3030v has no metal piece to mould around the nose and some construction persons with facial scars passed too, an amazing mask FFP3. Just to give you a word of warning, once completed my right hand would not function correctly for over a week, as the squeezing of the device really does numb the hand/wrist (the only downside). We also used the quantitative system for claustrophobic people (who didn't like the idea of the plastic over their head), they were fitted with the 3030v too, the tester said he had only ever failed one women using the 3030v as she didn't tie it tight enough. I have no affiliation with Alpha Solway! http://www.alphasolway.c...tative-face-fit-test-kit Fred Charlton trained my to use the face fit kit and is accredited with Fit2Fit http://www.fit2fit.org/r...it_Accredited_300512.pdf Hope this helps