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Adrian Nexam  
#1 Posted : 05 December 2012 12:50:54(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Adrian Nexam
Can somebody help to clarify an issue I have after having received two contradictory pieces of advice. Initially I was working with the advice that Qualitative Face Fit Testing was adequate for 'dust mask' type RPE. However, for full face and half face respirators with filters the quantitative testing was necessary. However, after a recent discussion I was told that the Qualitative Face Fit Testing was sufficient for all these types of RPE. This is the testing in a hood with the horrible bitter tasting sample. I have looked throught the RPE Guidance from the HSE, but it didn't really help. Any help to clarify the situation will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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A Kurdziel  
#2 Posted : 05 December 2012 13:17:24(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
A Kurdziel
The qualitative test (hood, bitterex etc) is suitable for disposable half-face masks and non-disposable half-face masks but not full face masks. The quantitative test (particle counter etc) is suitable for all type of negative pressure RPE ie disposable face masks, half face masks and full face masks. Positive pressure face masks such as hoods do not require face fit testing. Below is a link with everything you might want to know about face fit testing http://www.hse.gov.uk/fo...s/ocs/200-299/282_28.pdf
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Adrian Nexam  
#3 Posted : 05 December 2012 13:45:05(UTC)
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Adrian Nexam
Thank you !
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Steveeckersley  
#4 Posted : 05 December 2012 16:53:04(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Steveeckersley
Their is a new Dvd published by the HSE about RPE and the its set around a foundry. The HSE Inspector highlights what they are looking for as part of their inspection. However I was appalled at an arbitary statement made from the INspector reccomending 25% of the workforce should have Quantatative testing even though they had had qualatative done. I put people for Quantatative testing where they fail the sensitivity test but this Inspector just (in my view) came out with this arbitary figure of 25% but did not back it up with any reason why! Worrying!
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