Tailored Solutions to Meet Your Needs
Face Fit Testing
RPE Face Fit Solutions offers both Face Fit Training and Fit2Fit-accredited Quantitative and Qualitative Face Fit Testing services. We pride ourselves on working flexibly to meet your specific needs, ensuring compliance with COSHH and other relevant regulations for Face Fit Testing applicable to your business.
We provide impartial advice on the most suitable masks and will not leave your site until the correct RPE (masks/respirators) has been identified for your employees. Should the need arise, we can supply RPE for the Face Fit Test, and in all cases, we bring suitable alternatives for any failed tests (e.g., respirators that do not fit an employee). With years of Face Fit Testing experience, we understand what works and how flexible we need to be to meet our customers’ unique requirements.
Understanding Face Fit Testing Methods
Below is a brief overview of the two main Face Fit Testing methods. For more detailed information, please visit our FAQs page. Alternatively, feel free to contact us directly to discuss your requirements—our team is happy to assist!
Qualitative
QLFT involves the use of an aerosol containing either a bitter-tasting substance (Bitrex) or a sweet-tasting substance (Saccharin).
This solution is sprayed inside a hood (as shown in the image above) over a seven-minute period while the wearer performs 7 exercises designed to test the seal of the mask.
If, after completing the 7 exercises (over the span of 7 minutes), the wearer does not detect the test substance, the test is considered a pass, and a suitable mask has been successfully identified for that individual.
The final step in the process is for the candidate to break the seal to demonstrate how well the mask maintains its fit.
Quantitative
QNFT is a more precise method of Face Fit Testing, utilizing a Portacount particle counting device. This device measures the number of particles inside the candidate’s respirator and compares it to the ambient particle levels in the surrounding environment.
During the test, the candidate performs 7 exercises while walking on a treadmill or using a stepper. After each exercise, the system calculates whether the Fit Factor is sufficient before the candidate proceeds to the next exercise.
This real-time calculation ensures a highly accurate assessment of the mask’s fit.
Which Fit Testing Method is Best for You?
Full Face Respirators can only be tested using the Quantitative method. For other types of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), the best method will depend on factors like location, availability of power, suitable venue, and time constraints.
While Qualitative Face Fit Testing can often be quicker and cause less downtime when organized properly, it’s always a good idea to discuss with the Fit Tester which method is most suitable for your specific needs.
For more details and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit our FAQs page.