Posted By P. Moore
Dear All

I have a number of queries regarding face fit testing for FFP3 disposable respirators used to protect operatives from nuisance dust.

This may be a daft question, but does the fit test have be re-performed for each individual disposable mask or is one test valid for all masks of the same make and model?

Also, does anyone know of a company that provides this service?

The HSE guidance that I have consulted stated that where masks are provided for "comfort" rather than as a control measure that face fit testing is not required. How does one objectively define the boundary between the two?

Any guidance would be much appreciated.

Posted By garyh
In my opinion, once tested you would not have to do a face fit test every time - what if you go through several masks per day??

As regards "comfort", I have never come across it however it would likely be where masks are worn to stop unpleasant smells etc, rather than in preventing occupational exposure.

If you are using RPE for anything which is classified as hazardous (eg, has a WEL or is classed as hazardous under CHIP or on the MSDS) then it is not for comfort, but to ensure that individual's exposure is within acceptable levels. Thus, face fit testing is mandatory.

Hope this helps.

Posted By Helen C
Yes, if using disposable FFP3 masks then a qualitative test will suffice (using taste though - not smell), however you can also use qualitative fit testing using a particle counting device - which is generally considered to be better practice.

Search for OC 282/28 Fit Testing of Respiratory Protective Equipment Facepieces for most of the answers to your questions.

If you need it, we carry out face fit testing.

Posted By Jon B
Not sure about a smell test - we used a taste.

We use disposable masks where we cannot achieve adequate control by other means. Our dust are hazardous (grain/flour etc).

We therefore went through the fit testing process about 18 months ago. We purchased a qualititive test kit through our PPE supplier. The manufacturer(3M)then came out and gave us complimentary fit test training (a train the trainer session). This was very good and very free!

Obviously they recommend using their own products though to be fair we did achieve better results with some of their masks against some other branded an unbranded types.

The kits were a taste test. We got the 'sweet' version but were latter advised the bitter one is better as a failure is more noticeable (people screw their face up !!, you could need both depending on peoples sensitivity.

I have heard of masks been used to combat 'nuisance' odours but this was related to something a few years ago about the 'cheap' ones found in DIY stores which are not normally of a suitable standard for occupational use.

We do actually use them in some cases to protect against what you could call a nuisance - some grain dust can have an irritating effect at a very small fraction of the WEL and this can be dependant on the individual too. That said you could argue that to use a mask in this manner you are still controlling exposure of a hazadrous dust albiet at a very low 'reasonably practicable' level, so the fit test rule could still apply!

Aside from the cost, even if the dust (or vapour) is hazardous and you need to fit test. The higher FFP3 mask is not always the better option. We found the higher the protection - particulary on unvalved masks - the greater resistance to breathing. This can have a negative effect on the users acceptance of the need to where one.

Posted By Josh Scogin
there are numerous companies that do face fit testing, my company uses Safety industries which is in Romford, Essex.

As above, you do not need to be face fit tested after every mask is disposed. Once tested the only real reasons to be tested again are if you undergo substantial dental work which may chance your face shape, or if you gain / lose weight of a considerable amount.


Josh