Frequently asked Questions

What is Face Fit Testing?

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Face fit testing is a test to see whether a tight fitting mask (disposable, Half face of Full face) fits and protects the individual's facial features and will protect them against airborne hazards and substances.

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Is Face Fit Testing a legal requirement?

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Yes!  Face fit testing has been a part of COSHH since 2002.  It is also mentioned in the Control of Asbestos at work regulations, control of lead at work regulations, confined space regulations and ionising radiation regulations.

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Are you accredited?

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Again, yes!  We are fit2fit accredited by the BSIF which means we follow all the protocols listed in INDG479 and the accompanying "Companion Series"!

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Is there different types of face fit testing?

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At IESS we offer two types of face fit testing, quantitative and qualitative.  Qualitative is for disposable and half face respirators where as quantitative does everything that qualitative does, but also does full face respirators.

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What is the difference?

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Qualitative is subjective, as you are relying on someone being able to tell you whether or not they can taste the substance you are spraying into the hood they wear over their head.

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Quantitative provides a numerical measure (a Fit Factor) to determine how well a mask fits that individual.

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Do you have to be clean shaven?

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INDG479 states; Do not conduct fit tests if there is any hair growth between the wearer’s skin and the facepiece sealing surface, such as stubble beard growth, beard, moustache, sideburns or low hairline, which cross the respirator sealing surface. You should ensure that any type of non-PPE apparel or adornment (eg piercing) does not interfere with the fit of the facepiece.

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Inform wearers that they should be clean-shaven in the region of the face seal whenever they wear a tight-fitting facepiece at work.