Quantitative Face-Fit Testing
Ensure you can correctly don tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and understand whether it provides an effective seal when assessed using quantitative face fit testing in line with HSE guidance (INDG 479). Using TSI PortaCount equipment, you will see how fit testing measures inward leakage and determines respirator suitability. On successful completion, you receive a certificate of competence in quantitative face fit testing.
• Quantitative face fit testing principles
How quantitative face fit testing works using TSI PortaCount equipment, including how particle concentration is measured inside and outside the respirator to determine fit performance.
• Workplace simulation exercises
The series of standardised movements carried out during testing, designed to replicate typical workplace activity while the equipment continuously measures leakage into the respirator.
• Pass and fail criteria
How fit test results are generated, what constitutes a pass or fail result, and how the equipment provides an immediate outcome based on measured fit factor.
• Test duration and process
How each fit test is conducted over approximately 20 minutes, including preparation, exercise sequence and result capture, with additional time allowed within the appointment for retesting where required.
• RPE suitability and selection considerations
How different types of tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment are assessed during testing, including considerations for half-face, full-face and disposable masks.
• Assessment
Practical quantitative face fit test carried out using TSI PortaCount equipment in line with HSE guidance (INDG 479).
How to Prepare
• Participants must be clean shaven around the facial area at the time of testing
• Do not smoke for at least one hour before testing
• Half- and full-face masks must be tested with a P3 filter (or a combination filter that includes a P3)
• Confirm the mask make and model to be tested upon booking
• Supply a backup mask in case of any failures
• When testing disposable masks, the site must supply at least one mask per person If you normally wear protective goggles or a hard hat with your facepiece, you will be asked to wear these during the fit test
Practical, instructor-led quantitative face fit testing using TSI PortaCount equipment, delivered by Fit2Fit-accredited testers in line with HSE guidance (INDG 479). Demonstration and supervised completion of fit testing exercises are used to confirm competence in donning RPE and interpreting test outcomes.
Health and safety professionals, supervisors and competent persons responsible for conducting or overseeing quantitative face fit testing, as well as individuals required to carry out or manage respiratory protective equipment (RPE) fit testing programmes.
No prerequisites required.