Integral Safety Ltd

Our Services

Face-Fit Testing

On-site face-fit testing with instant certification. Qualitative testing to HSE standards.

Face-Fit Testing
  • Chartered (CMIOSH) Advice led by a Chartered Member of IOSH
  • 20+ years Protecting Midlands workplaces
  • Local to you Based in Coalville and Melton Mowbray
  • Free quote Clear, fixed prices with no obligation

Face-Fit Testing Across Leicestershire & the Midlands

On-site face-fit testing from local professionals based in Coalville. We travel to your premises anywhere in Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, and the wider East Midlands.

What we look at

What We Assess

  • Mask seal and facial fit
  • Correct mask size selection
  • Facial hair that may affect seal
  • Spectacles or eyewear compatibility
  • Correct donning and doffing technique
  • Strap adjustment and positioning
  • Mask condition and serviceability
  • User comfort and tolerance
  • Breathing resistance acceptability
  • Communication ability while wearing RPE

How it works

Our Process

  1. 1

    Pre-Test Preparation

    We confirm the mask types to be tested and check that participants have not eaten, drunk (except water), or smoked for at least 15 minutes before testing. We also check for facial hair that might affect the seal.

  2. 2

    Sensitivity Test

    Before the main fit test, we conduct a sensitivity test to ensure the wearer can detect the test solution. This confirms they will be able to identify any leakage during the fit test.

  3. 3

    Mask Fitting

    We help the wearer select the correct size mask and ensure it is fitted correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. We check strap positioning and seal quality.

  4. 4

    Fit Test Exercises

    The wearer performs a series of exercises while wearing the mask inside a test hood - including normal breathing, deep breathing, head movements, talking, and bending over. We check for any taste of the test solution.

  5. 5

    Certification

    If the test is passed, we issue an instant certificate recording the mask make, model, and size that fits. If failed, we can try alternative masks or sizes until we find one that fits correctly.

What you get

What You Receive

  • Qualitative face-fit testing to HSE INDG479 protocol
  • Individual fit test certificate for each person tested
  • Record of mask make, model, and size that fits
  • Advice on correct mask donning and doffing
  • Guidance on mask care and maintenance
  • Information on when re-testing is required
  • Summary report for your records
  • Advice on alternative masks if initial test fails

Who it is for

Types of Premises We Cover

  • Pharmaceutical and chemical industries
  • Healthcare and dental practices
  • Laboratories and research facilities
  • Spray painters and bodyshops
  • Asbestos removal contractors
  • Woodworking and joinery workshops
  • Foundries and metal processing
  • Food manufacturing
  • Agricultural and farming operations
  • Any workplace requiring tight-fitting RPE

Why Integral Safety

Why Choose Us

  • On-site testing anywhere in Leicestershire
  • Local testers based in Coalville
  • Covering Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley & beyond
  • Instant pass/fail certification provided
  • Qualitative testing to HSE standards
  • Test multiple mask types in one session
  • Competitive rates for group testing
  • Flexible scheduling to suit your operations

“Integral Health and safety Consultants have been undertaking H&S audits for the past twelve months on one of our large value developments. They have dealt with various issues that we have had very quickly using minimal hassle to us. Their Site Visits are weekly and their paperwork is always prompt. We would recommend Integral Health and safety consultants to any business that wants a reliable and professional company to take care of their health and safety issues.”

Mick Starkey S & S Contracting Ltd

Questions

Face-Fit Testing: Your Questions Answered

How long does face-fit testing take?

Each individual test takes approximately 15-20 minutes. We can typically test 3-4 people per hour, depending on how many mask types need to be tested. For larger groups, we recommend scheduling a dedicated testing day.

Can you test disposable masks?

Yes, we can test disposable FFP masks as well as reusable half-masks and full-face masks. Each mask type requires a separate test, so if workers use both disposable FFP3s and reusable half-masks, both must be tested.

How often should face-fit testing be repeated?

There is no fixed legal requirement for re-testing frequency. However, testing should be repeated if the wearer has significant weight changes, dental work affecting facial shape, facial scarring, or if a different mask is selected. Annual re-testing is considered good practice.

What if someone fails the fit test?

If someone fails with one mask, we can try alternative masks, sizes, or styles until we find one that fits correctly. Different face shapes suit different masks, so failure with one type does not mean all masks will fail.

Can people with beards be fit tested?

Facial hair in the seal area of a tight-fitting mask will prevent an adequate seal and the person will fail the fit test. Workers requiring RPE must be clean-shaven in the seal area. Alternatives like powered air respirators may be suitable for those who cannot shave.

Local to you

Face-Fit Testing Near You

Based in Coalville and Melton Mowbray, we work across Leicestershire and the East Midlands.

Need Face-Fit Testing?

Tell us about your premises and we will come back with a clear, fixed price. No obligation, no jargon.