Elevate Your Safety With A Face Fit Testing Kit

Ensuring the safety of yourself and workforce is nothing new. 

If you are a business owner, you want to ensure your company follows the legal safety requirements. 

The standards established over the years have forever evolved. 

They are specifically designed as guidance for conducting fit testing of snug-fitting RPE. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF FIT TESTING

Fit Testing is a process that determines whether a specific type and size of mask suitably fits an individuals face.

It's crucial as a mask that does not fit properly may lead to gaps and leakages, endangering the wearers safety. 

By conducting fit testing, employers ensure their employees use the right type of mask, which can provide a proper seal. 

The new detailed standards for RPE fit testing now require: 

• Qualifications/competencies of fit test operators

• Specific fit testing procedures

• Interpretation of fit test results

• Record keeping

TYPES OF FACE FIT TESTING KITS

QUALITIVE FACE FIT TESTING KITS 

Qualitative fit testing is normally used for half-mask respirators. 

It is a pass/fail approach, which detects leakage into the respirator via, testing your sense of taste or smell, or a rection to an irritant. If the wearer can taste the test agent, it indicates an insufficient fit. 

There are four qualitative fit test methods accepted by OSHA:

• Isoamyl acetate = Smells like bananas

• Saccharin = Leaves a sweet taste in your mouth

• Bitrex = Leaves a bitter taste in your mouth

• Irritant smoke = Can cause coughing

QUANTITATIVE FACE FIT TESTING KITS

Quantitative fit testing uses specialised equipment to measure concentration of particles inside and outside, which does not rely on your sense of taste, smell or irritation. 

This method of fit testing requires respirators with a probe on the facepiece that is wired to the machine.

They are suitable for both half & full face masks. 

There are three quantitative fit test methods accepted by OSHA:

• Generated aerosol

• Ambient aerosol

• Controlled Negative Pressure

Whilst quantitative tend to be more expensive than qualitive, they offer precise measurements. They are recommended for organisations with a larger workforce or complex respiratory requirements. 

ADVANTAGES OF FACE FIT TESTING KITS

Enhanced Safety & Protection

Face fit testing kits significantly enhance safety and protection for employees. By identifying the right size and type of mask through fit testing, workers can have confidence that they are adequately protected from airborne hazards. 

Since workers in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and mining are frequently exposed to harmful chemicals, this is important in those fields.

Compliance With Regulatory Standards 

Face fit testing kits help organizations meet regulatory standards and guidelines concern to workplace safety. 

These standards, such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, require employers to provide suitable PPE and ensure its proper use. By conducting fit testing, employers display compliance with these regulations, reducing the risk of legal consequences and penalties.

Cost Savings 

Investing in face fit testing kits can result in cost savings for organizations. By identifying the right type & size of mask for each employee, wastage of PPE is minimized. 

Fit testing ensures that the masks being used are effective, eliminating the need for repeated purchases or replacements. Ultimately, this leads to more efficient resource utilization and cost-effectiveness.

Employee Confidence & Satisfaction 

Face fit testing demonstrates an organization's commitment to employee safety and well-being. 

When employees are aware that their employers prioritize their health, it radiates a positive work environment and boosts morale. 

Providing proper fitting masks, employers can enhance employee confidence and satisfaction, resulting in increased productivity and reduced turnover rates.

...

Whether qualitative or quantitative , face fit testing plays a role in finding an ideal mask size and provides an effective protection against airborne hazards. 

Prioritizing fit testing not only demonstrates a commitment to employee safety but also fosters a positive work environment. So, invest in face fit testing kits and unlock the advantages they offer for optimal safety in your workplace.

See our range of face fit kits here and ensure your safety.