Face Fit Testing

Face Fit Testing - Course Details

Course intro:

Face Fit Testing

There are 2 methods of Fit Testing: Qualitative or Quantitative

Qualitative is suitable for disposable filtering face pieces – for example FFP2/FFP3 masks.

Qualitative Fit Testing-(FFP2/FFP3 Masks) 

This is a pass/fail test based on the wearer’s subjective assessment of any leakage through the face seal region by detecting the introduction of bitter- or sweet-tasting solution as a test agent.

The test employs a hood to create a small test chamber around the users head, and a test solution. This test solution has a bitter taste (the solution used would be a similar solution used on fingernails to help stop nail biting)

Course content

• Introduction & Course Objectives
• The Face Fit Test (2 Parts)
• The Sensitivity Test:

This is done without your mask on and proves that you can taste the test solution, a small weak version of the test solution will be sprayed into the hood, as soon as the participant gets a slight taste the tester is to be made aware.

• The Fit Test:

This part consists of 7 simple 1 minute exercises which must be completed while wearing your mask.

• The exercises are designed to test the seal of the mask and simulate normal movement

• Normal Breathing.
• Deep Breathing.
• Head Side to Side.
• Head Up & Down.
• Talking.
• Bending.
• The tester will provide step by step guidance throughout.
• Conclude & Follow Up Process

Who is the course intended for:

It is recommended that fit testing is carried out for all tight-fitting respirators. The purpose of fit testing is to ensure a good fit of the mask to the individual and is applicable to tight fitting filtering facemasks.