Qualitative Face Fit Testing

Rosette CPD now provide ‘fit testing’ to enable you to know if the Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) your staff are wearing are fit for purpose.

All tight-fitting face masks require fit testing, such as FFP2 & FFP3 masks.

This is also the case if the masks are valved or non valved, disposable, reusable of half face masks.

A tight-fitting face mask (respirator) is only as good as the fit itself and with a break in the seal, a leak could lead to a potential exposure to the substance which you are trying to guard yourselves from.

Rosette CPD offers face fit testing in the form of Qualitative Face Fit testing at your own practice or chosen location.

Qualitative testing is a face fit method based on the taste of a bitter or sweet material and is dependent on whether the wearer is able to detect anything.

Every necessary precaution is taken to ensure the fit testing is delivered in a safe manner and we ask that those being tested are staggered.

Testing will take place on each individual with a mask supplied by you, which are the masks you will be using/intend to be using.

All employees to be fit tested must be totally clean shaven. This is required to ensure an adequate fit – there is no refund for a failed fit test.

The test should to be conducted with all the PPE which is normally worn including prescription glasses. This is to ensure that the PPE does not affect the seal of the mask and is compatible.
Hair may need to be tied back if necessary.

Individuals being tested will need to refrain from smoking, vaping, eating, chewing gum or drinking (other than water) for 30 minutes before the test.
If the test candidates fail to comply with the above, and it result in a test failure or the candidate ends up not being tested, test charges would still apply.

How often does fit testing have to be repeated?

When the brand of mask being used changes from one to another, if the person tested has had substantial weight gain or loss, if they have had substantial dental work, if there are new piercings which may get in the way of the mask or after substantial changes in facial contours e.g. broken nose, or jaw or facial surgery.

General recommendations are for the fit testing to be repeated every 2 years if there are no previous changes from the date of the last fit test.

To book fit testing for your practice, or for more details - contact Rosette CPD on 07791 990297 - or visit our contact page stating your location, the number of staff that require face fit testing and the date you are looking for.

FFP2 and FFP3 respirators