Face Fit Train the Tester

This Face Fit Train the Tester course will provide those who require it, the knowledge of how to conduct face fit testing using the Qualitative method. If you provide respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to your employees, or are responsible for Health and Safety within your organisation, then it is essential that fit testing is carried out correctly and documentary evidence is recorded to demonstrate the RPE is suitable for the wearer and has passed a fit test.

Please note: even though these training courses are sometimes referred to as "train the trainer" they are only to provide training to allow the attendees to conduct Qualitative face fit testing, not to enable them to teach the subject themselves.  

All courses are delivered by a Fit2Fit accredited tutor.

Face Fit Train the Tester Course Overview

INDG 479 recommends that RPE Fit Testing should only be conducted by a trained and competent person. To be competent, the fit test operator should have adequate knowledge and have received adequate instruction and training.

Recent research indicates that up to 50% of all RPE used does not offer the wearer the level of protection assumed and one of the major reasons is that it simply does not fit!   Yet, under the regulations RPE must be correctly selected and this includes, for many types of RPE, a face piece Fit Test conducted by a trained and competent person.

Is Face Fit Testing a legal requirement?

Yes, face fit testing is a legal requirement under various health and safety regulations. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance notes INDG 479 and HSG53 specify that if you provide Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) to your employees, you must ensure that it fits correctly. This involves conducting a face fit test, carried out by a trained and competent person, to demonstrate that the RPE is suitable for the wearer. Proper documentation of the fit test is essential to comply with these regulations and to ensure that the RPE provides the intended level of protection.

What is Face Fit Testing? 

Face fit testing is a method used to ensure that a respirator or mask fits the wearer correctly and provides the necessary level of protection. It involves a series of tests conducted by a trained and competent person to check the seal between the face and the respiratory protective equipment (RPE). The test ensures that the RPE is suitable for the individual wearer and can effectively prevent exposure to hazardous substances. This process includes both qualitative and quantitative methods, with the qualitative method being commonly used for half-face masks. Proper face fit testing is crucial to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and to maintain a safe working environment.  

Why Perform a Fit Test?

If you provide respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to your employees then it is essential that you have documentary evidence to show the RPE fits the wearer. By subjecting each wearer to a face-fit test you can be sure that your organisation is fulfilling the requirements laid out in the Health & Safety Executives (HSE) guidance notes INDG 479 & HSG53.

Do I Need to be Clean Shaven for a Face Fit Test? 

For tight-fitting RPE (e.g., disposable masks, half masks, full-face masks), HSE guidance requires the wearer to be clean shaven in the seal area. Any facial hair (stubble, beards, sideburns, etc.) where the mask contacts the face will prevent a valid fit test.

Delegates who are not clean shaven can still complete the course but may not be able to act as the “test subject” during practical demonstrations.

For loose-fitting RPE (e.g., powered hoods/helmets), facial hair does not affect the fit, and participation is not restricted.

We therefore recommend attending clean shaven if you would like to fully take part in all aspects of the practical training.

How Often Should Face Fit Testing be Done According to HSE? 

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines, face fit testing should be conducted whenever a new type of tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is issued, or if there are significant changes to the wearer’s facial characteristics or the RPE itself. It is also recommended to conduct re-testing at regular intervals, typically every two years, to ensure continued effectiveness. Additionally, re-testing should be performed if there are any changes that could affect the fit of the mask, such as significant weight loss or dental work. Regular face fit testing helps ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety regulations and maintains the protective efficacy of the RPE.  

Course Content

This course is for trainees who want to undertake their own face fit testing programme.

The training includes:

• Background to Face Fit Testing
• Legislation and Guidance, INDG 479
• Set-up of Equipment
• The Sensitivity Test
• Fit Test Protocols
• Pass Levels
• Practical face fit testing
• Troubleshooting & Problem Solving
• Fit Test Failures and Re-Tests
• Planning & Managing a Fit Testing Program

Please note: that RPE should be selected, maintained and used by trained and competent people, it is the employers responsibility to ensure compliance with this.

Entry Requirements

A good level of written and spoken English is required.

Persons attending MUST be clean shaven. The fit test section of the course cannot be carried out if there is any hair growth between the skin and the face piece sealing surface e.g. stubble beard growth, beard, moustache etc. 

The wearer should not eat, drink (except plain water), smoke or chew gum for at least 30 minutes before the test.

The trainer will have a selection of masks (P1, P2, P3) with him on the day; however, if there is a specific type of mask you use then please let us know in advance and bring this with you on the day.

Fit Testing Kit

We can provide a full face fit testing kit at an additional cost of £200+Vat.  Please ensure you have ordered this from your account manager if you require a kit.

Learner Numbers

In order to ensure the interaction between the delegates and the tutor is spread evenly and effectively, the maximum number of delegates allowed on a course is six.