FAQ’s

Is face fit testing a legal requirement in the UK?

Yes. Under UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations—including COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), CAR (Control of Asbestos Regulations), and CLAW (Control of Lead at Work)—face fit testing is a mandatory legal requirement for anyone wearing tight-fitting Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) at work.

What is a quantitative face fit test?

At SL Safety Solutions Ltd, we specialize in quantitative face fit testing. Unlike qualitative testing (which relies on the wearer tasting a bitter or sweet solution), quantitative testing uses a specialized machine to measure the exact number of particles inside and outside the mask. This provides an objective, highly accurate numerical result, completely removing human error from the pass/fail criteria.

Do employees need to be clean-shaven for a face fit test?

Yes. To achieve a safe and compliant seal, the wearer must be clean-shaven in the area where the mask touches the face. Stubble or facial hair prevents tight-fitting RPE (like FFP3 disposable masks or half-masks) from sealing correctly, which compromises safety and will result in an automatic failure of the fit test.

How often should face fit testing be repeated?

The HSE does not set a fixed legal expiry date for face fit tests. However, industry guidance recommends repeating the test least every 2 years or sooner depending on indsutry. A re-test is required sooner if:

  • You change the make, model, or size of the RPE you use.

  • The wearer experiences significant weight loss or gain.

  • The wearer has undergone significant dental work or sustained facial injuries that could alter the shape of their face.

How long does a face fit test take?

A standard quantitative face fit test takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes per person. Because we offer on-site testing across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, and Buckinghamshire, we can cycle your staff through the testing process quickly to minimize operational downtime.

Why is Fit2Fit accreditation important?

The Fit2Fit accreditation scheme is backed by the HSE and the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF). Choosing a Fit2Fit accredited provider like SL Safety Solutions Ltd guarantees that the person conducting your testing has demonstrated full competency and strictly adheres to HSE guidance (INDG479). It provides you with total peace of mind that your workforce is legally compliant and genuinely protected.