Breathing Equipment Hire Ltd. - Services
Facemask Fit Testing | Instruction and Training | Servicing | ShutdownsFacemask Fit Testing
What is the Legal Requirement ?
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH) 4th Edition 2002 states that for full facemasks a quantitive fit test should be used to test facemask face seal leakage. Repeated fit testing is required if changing to a different model of facemask or if there have been significant changes to the facial characteristics of the individual wearer.
What is a facemask fit test ?
A quantitive facemask fit test is a method of measuring the inward leakage into a facemask by comparing the quantity of microscopic particles which exist in the ambient air around a facemask with the quantity of particles inside the inner mask of a facemask whilst it is being worn. The ratio of particle concentrations inside and outside the facemask is expressed as a fit factor (FF).
How are the tests carried out ?
Tests are carried out using a Portacount machine coupled to a computer and printer. The mask wearer dons a mask and adjusts it himself prior to performing a series of 7 exercises designed to test the facemask seal. The Portacount machine takes comparative readings of ambient and inner facemask particle concentrations and displays the results as a fit factor (FF).
The results of the test can be archived on the computer and can be outputted to the printer if hard copies of the test results are required.
What if a test fails ?
If a facemask leak test fails then the wearer is given instruction on how to fit and adjust the facemask and a repeat test is carried out. If necessary the model of mask material can be changed to a size or model better suited to the face profile of the wearer.
How long does the test take ?
Assuming that a satisfactory result is obtained then each complete fit test should take no more than 20 minutes.
What is the significance of the result ?
The fit factor resulting from the test is a measurement of effectiveness of the facemask seal. The HSE recommended minimum fit factor which should be achieved in each of the test exercises are:
- Full facemask 2000
- Half mask 100
- Filtering facepiece 100
One complete test should be carried out for each type of facemask that a wearer will use. If there is a change of mask style, size, material or manufacturer the test should be repeated with the new facemask. If there is a significant change in the physical characteristics of the wearer due to weight gain/loss, extensive dental work etc. then the test should be repeated.
Who can carry out the tests ?
Tests must be performed by a competent person.
How do YOU arrange for the tests to be carried out ?
Testing can be arranged by 3 different routes:
- Your wearers can visit BEH and undergo the tests at our works
- One of our instructors can visit you and test your wearers
- You can hire the equipment (with or without the computer) and we can instruct you in carrying out tests
If you are about to commence a new breathing apparatus hire and would like to have your wearers tested at the time the equipment is delivered we can arrange for one of our instructors to deliver the equipment and carry out the testing for a small additional charge.
What does it cost ?
We hope we have answered all your questions succinctly and accurately - but cost is not so easy since prices will vary with numbers and location. Please contact us for a price guide which will be relevant to your individual circumstances.
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