A Guide to FFP3 Respirator Face Fit Testing

The Coronavirus pandemic has changed how many professionals in “up close and personal” services, such as dental professionals work. Many are now required to wear a filtering facepiece class 3 (FFP3) mask, which requires a face fit test. 

What is a FFP3 mask?

A FFP3 respirator, also referred to as a FFP3 mask, is a type of respiratory protective equipment. There are different types, sizes and models of FFP3 masks. FFP3 masks have a central valve which allows heat to escape and reduces fogging of eyewear.

Why do I need a face fit test?

There are different reasons for having a face fit test, including needing a repeat fit test. To use FFP3 masks, all wearers must be ‘face fit tested’ to ensure that they can achieve a suitable fit for the mask, so that it operates at the required efficiency. There are two types of face fit test, qualitative and quantitative. Both tests match an individual’s face shape with a compatible mask, ensuring that a tight seal is achieved.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative testing?

Qualitative testing is used for disposable face masks and half face masks, while quantitative testing is used for all tight fitting respirators, including full face masks.

Qualitative Fit Testing can be used not only as a test method to ensure your employees are properly protected; but also as a very effective way of training them in the correct way of fitting a mask.

How often do you need to do a face fit test?

Fit testing guidance states that employers should have a system in place to review when a repeat fit test is required. The recommended suitable interval for repeat fit testing is 2 years.

Who can conduct face fit testing?

RPA, the face fit specialists state that fit testing should only be conducted by a person with adequate knowledge and adequate training in:

• The selection of adequate and suitable RPE.
• The examination of RPE and the ability to identify poorly maintained facepieces.
• The ability to correctly fit a facepiece and perform pre-use fit checks.
• The ability to recognise a poor fitting facepiece.
• The purpose and applicability of fit testing; the differences between, and the appropriate use of, quantitative and qualitative fit testing methods.
• The purpose of the fit test exercises.
• The preparation of facepieces for fit testing.
• How to carry out diagnostic checks on the facepiece and the fit test equipment.
• The capabilities and limitations of the fit test equipment.
• How to perform a correct fit test with the chosen method.
• How to be aware of and know how to prevent and correct problems during fit testing interpretation of fit test results.
• An understanding of the differences between fit factor, workplace protection factor, assigned protection factor and nominal protection factors.
• HSE Regulations and the Approved Codes of Practice relating to fit testing.

FFP3 Mask Fitting Instructions

The NHS provides FFP3 mask fitting and fit checking instructions as below.

• Cup respirator in one hand with nose piece at fingertips, allow headbands to hang freely below hand
• Hold the respirator under the chin with the nose piece up.
• Locate the upper strap across the crown of the head and the lower strap below the ears at the nape of the neck-straps must not be twisted.
• Using both hands,mould the nose clip to the shape of the nose to ensure a good seal. Do not pinch the nose clip with only one hand, this can result in a gap occurring.
• To tighten the respirator fit, simultaneously pull the two top strap ends at the front of the respirator backwards and then repeat for the bottom two strap ends.
• The seal of the respirator should be fit checked before entering the workplace.

Fit Checking Instructions

A fit check (not to be confused with a face fit test) should be performed every time a FFP3 mask is worn.

• Cover the front of the respirator with both hands being careful not to disturb the fit of the respirator.
• Test: Unvalved respirator - Exhale sharply - Valved respirator - Inhale sharply.
• If air leaks around the nose, re-adjust the nose clip to eliminate leakage. Repeat the above fit check until leakage is eliminated.
• If air leaks at the respirator edges, work the straps back along the sides of the head to eliminate leakage. Repeat the fit check until the leakage is eliminated.

At Work and Wear Direct we supply a Box of 10 Premier FFP3 Valved Respirators with full face foam, excellent face fitting and an adjustable head strap. We also supply the 3M Bitrex Fit Testing Kit and the JSP Qualitative Face Fit Test Kit. Call us on 01702 553698 to place an order.