Posted By Richie Hello, BS EN 529:2005 'Respiratory protective devices —Recommendations for selection, use, care and maintenance' dictates the appropriate test for Half-Mask respirators to be QUALITATIVE, which does not aid my cause when advocating the more stringent (and expensive) QUANTITIVE test is undertaken as and when I see the need. Until recently, given the guidance within HSE 282/28 'FIT TESTING OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FACEPIECES', I have been taking into account the type of contaminant when recommending the type of fit-test to be undertaken concerning Half-Mask respirators, as the tables give a choice of quantative or qualatitive test. I was comfortable with this approach, as a fit protection value of 100 is fairly low and a higher fit-factor should lessen the likelihood of sensitisation to the various contaminants encountered in my workplace, at the same time I recognise there are benefits in supplying one type of respirator if it is thought suitable. The alternative I have is to provide Full-Face masks for some activities merely to ensure a quantitive fit-test has been undertaken (also expensive). Anyone else come accross this problem, or are the majority of OSH asvisers simply happy to undertake the qualitative test for Half-Masks? Richie.

Posted By Chris Packham Not strictly related to fit testing, but the mention of half-masks triggered this response. I often see half-masks being provided as respiratory protection to airborne contamination which is not only a respiratory but also a skin sensitiser. Under such conditions, the half-mask may prevent inhalation, but will do nothing to prevent facial exposure. Since allergic reactions in a previously sensitiser person can occur at levels below the commonly required exposure limits, the question has to be asked whether a half-mask is suitable in such cases. Chris

Posted By Chris Packham Merv Re isocyanates - are you aware of the growing body of evidence that respiratory sensitisation can occur from dermal exposure as can elicitation of the respiratory (asthmatic) response? Chris