The HSE and British Safety Industry Federation, have collaborated to publish a refreshed version of their video on the Face-Fit Respirator Demonstrator model (FFRED).
The video demonstrates how to fit tight-fitting RPE and provides information for workers and their employers about:
- Why it is important for individuals to have face-fit tests for tight-fitting masks, such as disposable filtering face pieces (FFPs) and reusable half-face mask types;
- The importance of it having a good seal to the face.
The video also demonstrates to workers what happens if the respirator does not fit properly, for example:
- If the straps or nose clip are not tightened or incorrectly positioned;
- If the mask has ear loop straps;
- If the wearer is not clean shaven;
- If the mask is damaged;
- If the wearer is also wearing other personal protective equipment (PPE) on their head which interferes with the mask.
More guidance on providing RPE at work
Hazardous substances that can be breathed in come in differing forms, (dusts, mists, gases, or fumes), all of which may cause harmful health effects. These ill effects include cancer, silicosis and occupational asthma.
The main law covering the provision of RPE at work is the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH). These regulations require all employers and the self-employed to ensure suitable RPE is provided / used whenever there are risks to health and safety that cannot be adequately controlled by any other means.
This means it should be regarded as the last resort within the hierarchy of control or the measures that are to be taken by employers, which are :
- Elimination – remove the hazard / risk completely by using another substance or through use of another methodology;
- Substitution – substituting the hazardous materials for another less hazardous one;
- Engineering controls – using mechanical means such as LEV (either general air extraction or on tool extraction;
- Administrative controls – instruction, training, supervision; and lastly
- PPE – provision of personal protective equipment to wear.
When used and fitted correctly, tight-fitting respirators are capable of reducing exposure to hazardous substances and protecting the worker’s health.
HSE’s guidance on fit testing basics for respiratory protective equipment has also been refreshed to provide information of how to maintain the hygiene of face fit testing kits.
To ensure your business does not fall foul of health and safety law in 2025.
- Conduct risk assessments as and when required (prior to undertaking activities).
- Provide training regarding the risks involved and how to manage them.
- Supervise risk management, as necessary, until competence is demonstrated.
- Formally review risk assessments and associated safe systems of work, regularly.
- Update training provided (toolbox talks, in-house or external formal training).
- Keep / update records of all the above processes.
If you need help with any health & safety related issue do not hesitate to contact your health & safety consultancy. We can provide advice / assistance with:
- Your legal requirements with regards to safety and health.
- The management of health and safety – generally or specific to business activity.
- The risk assessment process and how to conduct and record risk assessments
- Required conduct – as per legal requirements to meet when managing an activity.
- Required health surveillance – as per the activity.
- How to evidence due diligence conducted.
- Training needs and how they can be met (provided and recorded).