What evidence is required for proof of face fit testing of respiratory protection?

3M trained our fit testers and issued them with a set of A4 certificates that they issue upon successful test. They also logged results in a table. Is this the answer you were looking for?

Hi Chris, it all depends on what you are using it for, the duration and the risks imposed. All users of RPE must receive training sufficient to ensure proper and effective use of the RPE. This should include: • correct use and circumstances in which it should be used • how to inspect the equipment before use • how to wear, clean and store the equipment • the limitations of the RPE • a system for reporting defects and obtaining replacements. The theoretical training must be backed up by practical training including demonstrations on the correct use of RPE. If face-fit testing is required then a suitable provider signed-up to the RPE Face-Fit Testing Accreditation Scheme is the one I believe you should look at.

Chris, check out: http://www.fit2fit.org/

Three coffees and beans on toast! (cooking on gas).

And served with Marmite!

Oh dear! Chris, get a copy of HSG53: The Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment. A free download if I’m correct (HSE Website). Also as far as policy is concerned get a copy of BS EN 529: 2005 Respiratory Protective Devices. Recommendations for Selection Use Care and Maintenance

Only at weekends! Chris, get a copy of BS EN 140: 1999 Respiratory Protective Devices. Half Masks & Quarter Masks. Requirements, Testing, Marking. It depends on the exposure; duration; risks etc. i.e. particles could be silica; asbestos etc? In which case the answer would be yes. Is this the PC asking for this information? In terms of work related factors you should address if the RPE is not worn for the full period of exposure as this can effect protection dramatically. Also facial hair can cause half-mask type respirators to leak, as can poor fitting. Stubble can cause the same problem and protection may reduce during the day as beard growth occurs. The shape of the wearers face/nose can prevent adequate sealing; it may be necessary to have a choice of similar types of protection to ensure the best fit for each individual. For all these reasons, where the PPE is essential to control exposure, then RPE must be "face fitted" for the individual user. Chris, manufacturer's instructions will assist in this and many can carry out face fitting for individuals if required. The link I provided includes many of the manufactures who are on the RPE Face-fit scheme. Chris you should also note that RPE restricts the wearer to some extent through increased resistance to breathing, limited vision (contact lenses/glasses) and increased perspiration and associated discomfort also needs to be considered.

Looks like there's been some confusion because your heading doesn't match your question. The record of face-fit testing (which your PC has specifically requested) can be in any format you like, and should identify the type(s) and sizes your people have been tested on against the names of the individuals. Reasonable to expect a re-test date too - don't know off-hand what period is considered reasonable in the ACoP though?