This course is suitable for anyone who is required to wear a tight-fitting face mask (respirator) as part of their job. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Construction workers

• Healthcare and care home staff

• Manufacturing and engineering personnel

• Cleaners and maintenance workers

• Waste management and asbestos removal operatives

• Laboratory and pharmaceutical staff

Face fit testing is a legal requirement under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations for anyone who wears a tight-fitting respirator for work. This course ensures users are properly tested, trained, and compliant.

The IPAF Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) course offers several additional benefits, including:

1. Enhanced Safety Knowledge: Participants gain a deeper understanding of safety protocols and risk management, contributing to safer work environments.
2. Networking Opportunities: The course provides a platform to meet and connect with industry professionals and peers, fostering valuable relationships.

Increased Confidence: Hands-on training and thorough knowledge equip participants with the confidence to perform inspections competently and efficiently.

This course focuses on qualitative fit testing, a method that uses the wearer’s sensory response—typically the detection of a taste or smell—to determine whether a tight-fitting face mask provides an adequate seal.

Unlike quantitative testing, which uses specialised instruments to generate numerical data, qualitative testing relies on the user’s ability to detect a test agent (such as a bitter or sweet solution) during a series of exercises.

While simpler, quicker, and more cost-effective than quantitative testing, qualitative testing is best suited for disposable and half-face respirators, and is fully compliant with current safety regulations when performed correctly.

30 minutes

Classroom

During the fit test, the instructor will assess whether your mask is suitable for your individual face shape. Not all masks fit all people—different manufacturers and models vary in shape and size, which can significantly affect how well the mask seals.

The purpose of the test is to ensure that the specific mask you use provides an effective seal, offering the necessary protection for your working environment. If a mask does not fit properly, an alternative model or size will be recommended.

The qualitative fit test is carried out using a test hood and a harmless, non-toxic taste-based aerosol solution. This solution is used to check whether the wearer can detect the agent while performing a series of movements and exercises.

Please note: The test chemicals are completely safe and approved for use in occupational fit testing. They are specifically formulated to be detectable by taste but pose no health risk.

The following equipment is used during a qualitative face fit test to ensure the mask forms an effective seal:

• Test Hood – A clear, protective hood worn over the head and shoulders to contain the test aerosol.

• Nebuliser (Test Solution Sprayer) – A handheld device used to spray the test solution into the hood in a controlled manner.

• Sensitivity Solution – A diluted version of the test agent used to ensure the participant can detect the taste before the fit test begins.

• Test Solution – The full-strength aerosol (usually Bitrex or saccharin) used during the actual fit test.

• Clean water – For rinsing the mouth between sensitivity and fit test stages.

• Stopwatch or timer – To time each exercise stage consistently.

• Checklist or Fit Test Record Sheet – Used to record the results of each test and confirm pass or fail outcomes.

All equipment is cleaned and calibrated according to best practice to ensure reliable and accurate testing results.

To ensure an effective and reliable face fit, all participants must be clean shaven in the area where the mask seals against the face.

Facial hair, stubble, or beards can interfere with the seal of the mask, allowing harmful substances to leak in and rendering the protection ineffective. This is a requirement under HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidelines for tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

If you are not clean shaven on the day of your test, you may be unable to complete the face fit test, and it will need to be rescheduled.

Participants are required to bring the specific masks they use in their workplace to the face fit test. This ensures the test is carried out on the exact make and model of mask you will be wearing during your duties.

Testing a different mask—even one that looks similar—does not guarantee a proper fit with the one you use daily. If your employer provides multiple types or brands, it’s recommended to bring a sample of each to determine which offers the best fit.

If you’re unsure which mask to bring, please contact us in advance and we’ll be happy to advise.

Upon successful completion of the face fit test, participants will receive a UK Industries Training In-House Certificate of Competence.

This certificate confirms that the individual has undergone a qualitative face fit test using their specific make and model of mask and has demonstrated that it provides an adequate seal.

The certificate includes:

• Participant’s name

• Mask type and model tested

• Date of test

• Tester’s name and signature

• Certificate validity period (typically up to 2 years, depending on workplace requirements)

Please note: The certificate is issued in line with HSE guidance and is suitable for demonstrating compliance with COSHH regulations.

The duration of validity for a face fit testing certificate typically ranges from one to two years, depending on industry standards or employer policies.

While there is no legal expiry date set by the HSE, it is recommended that individuals are retested at least every two years, or sooner if:

• The model or type of mask changes

• The wearer’s facial features change significantly (e.g. due to weight loss, dental work, or facial surgery)

• There is reason to believe the original fit is no longer adequate

Always check your organisation’s internal policies or industry-specific guidelines to determine the required frequency of testing.

Please check the calendar for details, alternatively please call or email with your enquiry.

We offer flexible scheduling and can often accommodate short-notice requests.

If you regularly need to fit test staff, upgrading to our Train the Trainer course is a smart investment. This course, combined with the purchase of fit testing equipment, gives you the skills and certification to carry out face fit testing in-house.

Key benefits include:

• Flexibility to test new staff as part of your induction process

• Immediate response when masks change or staff need re-testing

• Cost savings on external testing over time

• The ability to switch mask suppliers without delays in testing

• Greater control and confidence in your workplace compliance process

This is an ideal solution for companies with high staff turnover, multiple sites, or changing PPE requirements.