Description

Face Fit Testing Course Aim

Face Fit Testing aims to test that the mask you use to ensure it is doing its job and providing the required level of protection.

Please ensure each delegate brings their own mask to be tested on; this should be the mask that will be used in the workplace. Please note we do not test full face masks or disposables, nor do we supply face masks.

Delegates ideally must have trimmed (short) facial hair or be clean-shaven to take their fit test, as directed by the HSE:
“Many masks rely on a good seal against the face so that, when you breathe air in, it is drawn into the filter material where the air is cleaned. If there are any gaps around the edges of the mask, ‘dirty’ air will pass through these gaps and into your lungs. It is therefore very important that you put your mask on correctly and check for a good fit every time.

Facial hair – stubble and beards – makes it impossible to get a good seal of the mask to the face. If you are clean-shaven when wearing tight-fitting masks (those which rely on a good seal to the face), this will help prevent leakage of contaminated air around the edges of the mask and into your lungs. You will therefore be breathing in clean air, which will help you stay healthy.

If there are good reasons for having a beard (such as for religious reasons), alternative forms of RPE that do not rely on a tight fit to the face are available.”