RPE Face Fit Testing

Where RPE is used it has to be able to provide adequate protection for each individual wearer

RPE can't protect the wearer if it leaks. A major cause of leaks is poor fit - tight fitting facepieces need to fit the wearer's face to be effective.

As people come in all shapes and sizes it is unlikely that one type or size of RPE facepiece will fit everyone. Fit testing will ensure that the equipment selected is suitable for the wearer.

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.

Important - A note on facial hair

Facial hair – stubble and beards – make it impossible to get a good seal of the mask to the face.

If you are clean-shaven when wearing tight-fitting masks (ie 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 (eg for religious reasons), alternative forms of RPE, that do not rely on a tight fit to the face, are available.