General Health and Safety
Qualitative Face Fit, Train the Tester
A qualitative face fit test is a pass/fail taste test used to ensure tight-fitting respirators (disposable and reusable half-masks) create a proper seal. It relies on the wearer detecting a bitter (Bitrex) or sweet (Saccharin) aerosol mist sprayed into a hood.
Delegates must be clean-shaven on the day to participate in testing.
Suitability
Suitable only for disposable and reusable half-face masks. It cannot be used for full-face masks.
Methodology
The wearer dons the mask and a hood, then performs exercises (e.g., bending, talking, turning head) while a test agent is introduced.
Principle
If the user cannot taste the solution, the mask passes. If they taste it, the mask is poorly fitted.
Sensitivity test
Before the main test, the user is tested without a mask to ensure they can taste the solution.
Certification
Results should be recorded, and testing is typically valid for 3 years, although more frequent testing may be needed
A qualitative face fit test is a pass/fail taste test used to ensure tight-fitting respirators (disposable and reusable half-masks) create a proper seal. It relies on the wearer detecting a bitter (Bitrex) or sweet (Saccharin) aerosol mist sprayed into a hood.
Delegates must be clean-shaven on the day to participate in testing.
Suitability
Suitable only for disposable and reusable half-face masks. It cannot be used for full-face masks.
Methodology
The wearer dons the mask and a hood, then performs exercises (e.g., bending, talking, turning head) while a test agent is introduced.
Principle
If the user cannot taste the solution, the mask passes. If they taste it, the mask is poorly fitted.
Sensitivity test
Before the main test, the user is tested without a mask to ensure they can taste the solution.
Certification
Results should be recorded, and testing is typically valid for 3 years, although more frequent testing may be needed