Respiratory Protective Equipment
Guidance for University Departments
Safety Services Office
October 2012
Table of Contents
Introduction.................................................................................................................................3
What is RPE? ................................................................................................................................3
Types of RPE ................................................................................................................................4
When can RPE be used .................................................................................................................4
Specific requirements for RPE ......................................................................................................5
Selection of RPE. ..........................................................................................................................5
Facefitting....................................................................................................................................7
Training. ......................................................................................................................................7
Storage ........................................................................................................................................8
Maintenance................................................................................................................................8
Disposal .......................................................................................................................................8
Appendix 1: Substances listed as R42 (may cause sensitisation through inhalation) in Asthmagen.
....................................................................................................................................................9
Appendix 2: RPE Selection. ......................................................................................................... 10
The hazardous substance. ................................................................................................................ 10
Task Related Factors ......................................................................................................................... 11
How long will you be wearing the RPE for? .................................................................................. 11
How vigorous is the work .............................................................................................................. 11
Clarity of vision or communication................................................................................................ 11
Mobility ......................................................................................................................................... 11
Confined working .......................................................................................................................... 15
Abnormal temperature and humidity ........................................................................................... 15
Power tools .................................................................................................................................... 15
Wearer related factors. .................................................................................................................... 15
Facial Hair...................................................................................................................................... 15
Facial Markings ............................................................................................................................. 15
Spectacles and contact lenses. ...................................................................................................... 15
The use of other PPE...................................................................................................................... 16
Medical conditions ........................................................................................................................ 16
Appendix 4: Fit testing ............................................................................................................... 19
Qualitative fit testing .................................................................................................................... 20
Quantitative fit testing. ................................................................................................................. 20
References ................................................................................................................................. 20
2
Introduction
The Health and Hafety at Work Act and the Management of Health and Safety at work Regulations
require you to ensure that you have a safe working environment. They set out the basic
requirements for you to follow. These are the principal health and safety regulations from which all
others follow. The law governing the use of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is contained in
several different regulations.
•
•
•
•
•
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH)
The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (CAW)
The Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW)
The Ionising Radiations Regulations
The Confined Spaces Regulations
The law requires that exposure of employees to hazardous substances at work is either prevented
or adequately controlled. However, exposure should be controlled by other measures rather than
personal protective equipment (PPE) where possible.
The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at Work Regulations 1992 states:
“Every employer shall ensure that suitable personal protective equipment is provided to his
employees who may be exposed to a risk to their health or safety while at work except where
and to the extent that such risk has been adequately controlled by other means which are equally
or more effective.”
Thus, PPE is always the “last resort” in a hierarchy of control measures; engineering controls and
safe systems of work should always be considered first. For RPE this is because:
•
•
•
•
RPE only protects the wearer – they do not remove the contaminant from the workplace
and other workers who are not wearing appropriate RPE are at risk. Control measures at
source protect all those in the area.
If RPE is used incorrectly, or are badly maintained, the wearer may not be protected
RPE is uncomfortable to wear and is an intrusion into normal activities.
RPE may interfere with work.
There are also a number of Approved Codes of Practice that guide you through the regulations.
While you do not have to follow the guide, doing so will ensure you have done everything
reasonably practicable in complying with the law.
What is RPE?
RPE is a particular type of PPE that is designed to protect the wearer against inhalation of
hazardous substances that may be present in the workplace air. These hazardous substances may
be particulates such as dust or allergens, volatile chemicals, or biological agents such as bacteria.
3
However, not all RPE will prevent exposure to all hazardous substances and as a consequence,
careful selection as to the type and filtering capabilities of the RPE needs to be done.
Types of RPE
There are two main types of RPE which are illustrated in figure 1
•
•
Respirator (filtering type). These use filters to remove contaminants in the air. They should
never be used in situations where there is reduced oxygen.
Breathing apparatus. This needs a supply of breathing quality air from an independent
source (e.g. air cylinder or air compressor).
Both types of RPE are available with a variety of facepieces, but there are some limitations
•
Masks: These are tight fitting facepieces (filtering facepieces, half and full facemasks). They
rely on having a good seal with the wearers face. They can also be part of both respirators
and breathing apparatus. They must be face-fitted to ensure adequate protection is being
given.
•
Hoods, Helmets, visors, blouses, suits. These are loose-fitting facepieces which rely of
enough clean air being provided to the wearer to prevent contaminants from leaking in.
They are only used on fan-powered respirators or air-fed equipment.
Figure 1: Types of RPE (taken from “Respiratory Protective Equipment at work, a practical guide)
When can RPE be used
RPE should only be selected and used after a risk assessment has justified its use. RPE can be used
in the following situations:
4
•
•
•
•
•
•
Where an inhalation exposure risk remains after you have put in place other reasonable
controls (residual risk)
Short-term or infrequent exposure where you decide that other controls at source are not
reasonably practicable
While you are putting in place other control measures (interim measure)
Emergency escape you need to provide RPE for safe exit in the event of control systems
failures
Emergency work or temporary failure of controls where other means of controls are not
reasonably practicable.
Emergency rescue by trained personnel is necessary.
However, there may be circumstances where you consider it prudent to issue RPE, not because
other control measures are inadequate on their own, but to provide additional protection if any of
the control measures fail to operate.
Specific requirements for RPE
If RPE is being used for protection against hazardous substances there are a number of
requirements that need to be met that are enshrined in law. RPE used at work must:
•
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•
•
•
•
Be adequate and provide the wearer with effective protection
Be suitable for the intended use
Be “CE” marked
Be selected, used and maintained by properly trained people
Be correctly maintained, examined and tested
Be correctly stored.
Prior to 1st July 1995, the HSE approved RPE for use with hazardous substances. However, after 1
July 1995, all RPE is required to be CE marked. The University of Leicester requires all RPE to be CE
marked as this indicates that the equipment has met the minimum requirements laid down in the
law for its design and manufacture. Consequently, any RPE manufactured before July 1995 should
not be used for protection against hazardous substances. Further despite being CE marked, this
does not mean the RPE is automatically suitable for the application in the workplace. It is your
responsibility to select the correct RPE for use. Records of selection, maintenance and testing must
be made and retained.
Selection of RPE.
Facemasks differ in properties and it is important to select a facemask that is appropriate for
protection against exposure to the specific hazardous substance or substances that will be
encountered. Each facemask is assigned a protective factor (PF) which gives an indication of the
level of protection offered against particulates (See appendix 2). These figures give an indication on
the Level of respiratory protection that can realistically be expected to be achieved in the workplace
by 95% of adequately trained and supervised wearers using a properly functioning and correctly
fitted respiratory protective device. A PF4 facemask will reduce the concentration of inhalable
5
hazardous substance by a factor of 4, while a PF20 facemask will reduce the concentration of
inhalable hazardous substance by a factor of 20. Do not use Nuisance Dust Masks; these are not CE
marked, only offer low level protection against large particulates and have not been assigned a PF
value.
It is important to note that unless you are using a combined particulate/gas vapour mask,
particulate facemasks do not offer protection against gases or vapours and facemasks that are
suitable for gases/vapour do not offer protection against particulates. If you are requiring a
facemask for protection against gases or vapours, you must ensure that the filter type is
appropriate for the substance.
Facemasks and RPE filters have a maximum filtering capacity. Once this capacity is reached then the
facemask/filter is no longer offering the required protection and should be changed according to
the manufacturer’s instructions. However, as a general rule, the following is recommended.
•
•
•
•
•
Do not use past the expiry date and change before any expiry date of the RPE.
FFP1, 2 and 3 facemasks should be replaced daily unless the manufacturer can guarantee
continued protection.
Change when RPE is damaged or visibly contaminated.
Change when the RPE becomes more difficult to breathe through. This will be an indication
of the filtering capacity being reached.
For gas filters, change before the contaminant can be smelled or tasted. If you can smell or
taste the contaminant, you must change the filter immediately. For odourless gases, you
must follow the manufacturers recommendations
The HSE has produced some guidance on facemask selection (HSG53 “Respiratory protective
equipment at work: A practical guide”) which goes through the details of facemask selection,
relating particular risk phrases or substances generated through a particular process to health
hazard groups applicable for RPE selection.
The HSE has also produced another document called Asthmagen which based on experimental
evidence has evaluated a number of substances to see if they meet the required specification and
should be assigned as R42 (May cause sensitisation by inhalation). The substances from Asthmagen
that were assigned R42 are summarised in Appendix 1. If the substance is listed in this appendix,
you must class it as R42 for the purpose of selecting RPE.
If RPE is to be worn in an oxygen reducing environment, you must supply breathing apparatus style
RPE with an independent supply of breathable air.
If in the risk assessment RPE is specified to protect health then it must be worn; there are no
exceptions. If there are incompatibilities due to clothing, scarring or other facial features or facial
hair, alternate RPE must be sourced that is compatible and this may include powered (fan assisted)
respirators with hoods.
6
Facefitting
Where tight fitting RPE is selected, there is a requirement to ensure that the RPE fits the wearer
properly. The HSE has published a document OC282/28 “Fit testing of respiratory protective
equipment facepieces” which gives practical advice in facemask fitting. A number of factors can
influence how tight fitting RPE fits and seals, such as facial hair, raised moles or scars. It is important
that each wearer is assessed to ensure that the RPE fits properly and without leaks around the
mask. Facefitting must be undertaken in the following circumstances.
•
•
•
When a tightfitting facepiece is used for the first time (this includes changing of the brand or
model of facemask).
When the wearer’s facial appearance changes significantly (e.g. gain/loss of weight, facial
hear, scaring)
When a tightfitting facepiece has been used, but no facefit assessment has been
undertaken.
It is also extremely important that facefitting is repeated to ensure that the facepiece fits
appropriately and therefore gives continued protection. Where a facepiece is used as the primary
control measure such as under CAW, then face-fitting must be repeated every 12 months.
However, if RPE is not being used as the primary control measure, then face fitting must be
repeated every 24months. There is no requirement to face fit loose fitting RPE like the powered
(fan assisted) respirators with hoods.
Training.
A key requirement in the use of RPE is training. A training programme should be established which
covers the following areas.
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•
•
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•
•
•
•
•
•
Why RPE is required
What are the hazards, the risks and the effects of exposure
What RPE is being provided
How does the RPE work
Why fit testing is required (if relevant)
How do you wear and check it correctly
Fit checking before use
What maintenance is required and when
Where and how do you clean and store it
How do you report any problems
Employee and employer responsibilities
Use and misuse of RPE.
The manufacturer of the RPE will be able to give information on the training required to use and
maintain their products.
7
Storage
RPE must be stored in a safe and clean environment. This must be away from the source of
inhalable substances to prevent contamination of the inside of the facemask.
Maintenance.
All RPE, irrespective of style, needs to be checked before use to ensure that it is functioning
correctly. These instructions also known as the pre-use fit check should be detailed by the
manufacturer. These are the only checks required for single use RPE (i.e. FFP1-NR, FFP2-NR or FFP3NR). However, for all re-usable RPE, including disposable re-usable (i.e. FFP1-R, FFP2-R and FFP3-R)
a thorough maintenance, examination and tests should be carried out on a monthly basis. However
RPE that is used infrequently, the interval between inspections can be up to 3 months, BUT it must
be inspected before it is next used. Details of maintenance, examination and testing will be
available from the manufacturer, and must be recorded with records being kept for a minimum of 5
years.
Disposal
Whether the RPE or parts of the RPE will be considered hazardous will depend on the specific
substances that you are exposed to. For example you are using RPE to protect against biological
agents, it will be prudent to autoclave the RPE before disposal. You must determine through risk
assessment, the most appropriate method of disposal
8
Appendix 1: Substances listed as R42 (may cause sensitisation through
inhalation) in Asthmagen.
It is unlikely that all these substances will be relevant to the University. However, all are listed for
completeness.
Azodicarbonamide
Carmine
Castor BeanDust
Chloramine-T
Chloroplatinates and other halogenoplanates
Chromium (IV) compounds
Cobalt (metal and compounds)
Cow epithelium/ urine
Crustacean proteins
Diazonium salts
Ethylediamine
Glutaraldehyde
Some hardwood dusts
Isocyanates
Laboratory animal excreta/secreta
Latex
Maleic anhydride
Methyl-tetrahydrophthalic anhydride
papan
penicillins
persulphates
Phthalic anhydride
Piperazine
List taken from Asthmagen 2001
Some reactive dyes
Rosin-based solder flux fumes
Some softwood dusts
Spiramycin
Tetrachlorophthalic anhydride
Trimellitic anhydride
Coffee bean dust
Egg protein
Fish proteins
Henna
Nickel sulphate
Opiates
Storage mites
Alpha amylases
Bromelains
Cephalosporins
Cockroach material
Flour dusts
Isapghula
psyllium
Soyabean dust
subtilisins
9
Appendix 2: RPE Selection.
Once RPE is justified through risk assessment you need to select the most appropriate type that will
offer the user adequate protection. The RPE selection guide below is just one method of deciding
on the most appropriate RPE to use. There are other methods and you are not restricted by
methodology. RPE selection is a multi-step process, of which there are three main steps
1) Assign a protection factor based on the hazardous substance characteristics
2) Evaluate influencing factors that may dictate the type of RPE that can be used
3) Look an individual’s facial characteristics and evaluate whether the facemask will be suitable
The details that follow have been summarised from the HSE guidance document HSG53
“Respiratory protective equipment at work”. A form has been produced to help you to record the
relevant information when deciding what type of RPE to use and where applicable, a form to record
the suitability of a particular facemask with an individual.
In order to assess the most appropriate type of mask, you will need to gather some information.
•
•
•
•
•
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The hazardous substance
The amount of substance in use
How volatile or dusty the substance is
What risk phrases are associated with the substance and what health hazard group they
belong to.
Task related factors
o How long you will be working with a particular substance for
o How arduous the work is
o Is there anything critical to the work e.g. clear vision, communication or mobility
o Are there any other factors to take into account.
o What is the reason for using RPE
o Are you going to be working in a confined area
Wearer related factors
o Facial hair
o Facial markings
o Spectacles or contact lenses
o Whether additional PPR is required
o Relevent medical conditions.
The hazardous substance.
What the hazardous substance is, how much is being used and its characteristics will all influence
the protective factor (PF) that can be assigned. You need to assign a hazard health group (HHG) to
your substance. Table 2 below combines the HSE process-generated substances guide with the Risk
phrases guide to assign a particular HHG. Look up the risk phrase in the table and this will give a
value a corresponding HHG of A-E. The next step is to decide how much of a substance you are
going to use and how dusty or volatile the substance is. Figure 1 is designed to help determine
10
volatility base on boiling point and operating temperature. Once the HHG has been defined, you
know how much of a substance and its dustiness and volatility, you can use table 3 to determine
the PF factor required.
Task Related Factors
There are some factors related to the work itself that can influence the type of RPE selected. This
are described below.
How long will you be wearing the RPE for?
RPE can be uncomfortable to wear especially the tightfitting type and if worn for considerable
lengths of time, there may be tendency for the worker to loosen or remove RPE. The HSE
recommends that unless fitted with fan assisted or compressed air-supplied, tightfitting facepieces
should be worn for no longer than 1 hour. If the work period is >1hr, consider using loose fitting
facepieces or RPE that are fan assisted or have an air supply.
How vigorous is the work
Work rate can influence the style of mask that needs to be worn. Higher work rates are associated
with increased breathing and sweating which can affect the performance of a facepiece. Increased
breathing may break the seal allowing contaminants to leak in or sweating may cause the mask to
slip. Heavy breathing with a tight fitting mask is uncomfortable and there will be a tendency for the
worker to loosen the mask in the working area. The HSE has defined the following for work rate
Light: Sedentary working; Medium: sustained hand and arm work or brisk walking; Heavy: heavy
manual work.
Clarity of vision or communication
Clarity of vision is an important aspect to consider. If you need to see fine detail, masks that offer
full face protection may not be ideal. They can be prone to scratching, misting and other surface
contamination. You should consider whether half face masks would be more appropriate. However,
if full face protection is required, consider the fan assisted or compressed air fed RPE which tend to
be more resistant to misting, or those that offer scratch/misting protection.
If clarity of communication is important, you may need to look at RPE that incorporates
communication devices.
Mobility
If you are working in large areas or at different heights, RPE can be a problem and may constitute a
safety hazard especially if the RPE is compressed air fed. Trailing hoses can cause a trip hazard, can
be snagged or dragged. If trailing hoses cannot be avoided, you may need to provide hose supports
or put in place safe systems of work.
11
A
B
Hazard Health Group
C
D
E
R36
R37
R38
R20
R20/21
R20/21/22
R20/22
R21
R21/22
R22
R23
R23/24
R23/24/25
R23/25
R24
R24/25
R25
R26
R26/27
R26/27/28
R26/28
R27
R27/28
R28
R68
Muta cat 3
R34
R35
R36/37
R36/37/38
R41
R40
Carc cat 3
R48/21
R48/23/24
R48/23/24/25
R48/23/25
R48/24
R48/24/25
R48/25
R60
R61
R62
R63
R40
R42
R42/43
R45
R46
R49
R43
R48/20
R48/20/21
R48/20/21/22
R48/20/22
R48/21
R48/21/22
R48/22
Flour dust
Cotton dust
Rubber fume
Lead based dust fume
(e.g. removal of lead
paint
Grain dust
Rubber process dust
Welding/cutting
stainless steel
Solder flux fume
Wood dust
Mineral oil mist (except
used engine oil)
Poultry house dust
Welding/cutting mild
steel
Wool process dust
Domestic chimney
Ferrous foundry dust
Table 1: Health hazard groups defined by risk phrase or specific processes (see table 2 for meanings of Risk Phrases)
12
Risk Phrase
Meaning
R20
R21
R22
R23
R24
R25
R26
R27
R28
R34
R35
R36
R37
R38
R40
R41
R42
R43
R45
R46
R49
R60
R61
R62
R63
R68
R20/21
R20/22
R20/21/22
R21/22
R23/24
R23/25
R23/24/25
R24/25
R26/27
R26/28
R26/27/28
R27/28
R36/37
R36/37/38
R42/43
R48/20
R48/21
R48/22
R48/20/21
R48/20/22
R48/21/22
R48/20/21/22
R48/23
R48/24
R48/25
R48/23/24
R48/23/25
R48/24/25
R48/23/24/25
Harmful by inhalation
Harmful in contact with skin
Harmful if swallowed
Toxic by inhalation
Toxic in contact with skin
Toxic if swallowed
Very toxic by inhalation
Very toxic in contact with skin
Very toxic if swallowed
Causes burns
Causes severe burns
Irritating to eyes
Irritating to respiratory system
Irritating to skin
Limited evidence of a carcinogenic effect
Risk of serious damage to eyes
May cause sensitisation by inhalation
May cause sensitisation by skin contact
May cause cancer
May cause heritable genetic damage
May cause cancer by inhalation
May impair fertility
May cause harm to the unborn child
Possible risk of impaired fertility
Possible risk of harm to the unborn child
Possible risk of irreversible effects
Harmful by inhalation and in contact with skin
Harmful by inhalation and if swallowed
Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
Harmful in contact with skin and if swallowed
Toxic by inhalation and in contact with skin
Toxic by inhalation and if swallowed
Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
Toxic in contact with skin and if swallowed
Very toxic by inhalation and in contact with skin
Very toxic by inhalation and if swallowed
Very toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
Very toxic in contact with skin and if swallowed
Irritating to eyes and respiratory system
Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin
May cause sensitization by inhalation and skin contact
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure if swallowed
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and in contact with skin
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and if swallowed
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin and if swallowed
Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure if swallowed
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and in contact with skin
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and if swallowed
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin and if swallowed
Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
Table 2: List of risk phrases and their meaning.
13
Figure 2: Estimates of volatility based on boiling point and operating temperature.
Hazard health group
Amount
Low
Dustiness/volatility
Medium
High
A
Small
Medium
Large
4
4
10
10
20
B
Small
Medium
Large
10
4
10
20
4
20
40
C
Small
Medium
Large
10
20
4
10
20
4
20
40
D
Small
Medium
Large
10
20
20
20
40
40
40
40
2000
E
Small
Medium
Large
10
20
20
20
40
40
40
40
2000
Table 3: Required protection factor.
For amount: small: <1kg or 1litre, medium 1-100kg or 1litre to 250litre, large >100kg or >250litre.
For dustiness/volatility Low: substance is either pellets, waxy flakes or pill like solids that do not break up easily. No
dust is produced and little or no dust in the area. Medium: Crystalline granular solid and dust (visible and settles
quickly). Fume or mist formed close to task, but dissipates quickly. High: Fine powder, fume or mist. Dust cloud, fume
or mist is formed and remains in the air for several minutes.
14
Confined working
Confined working has two issues. Firstly, there may be an issue with oxygen depletion, oxygen
enrichment or the creation of potentially explosive atmospheres. The second is the RPE may affect
movement within the confined area. Thus depending on the work area, you may need to look for
RPE that is intrinsically safe, light-alloy free and antistatic, and or less bulky and restrictive.
Abnormal temperature and humidity
Working in hot and humid conditions may lead to heat stress, sweating and discomfort and you
may need to look at using fan-assisted or compressed air supplied facemask. However, using fanassisted or compressed air supplied facemasks in extreme cold may cause chilling effects. Some
manufactures supply heating and cooling devices for their RPE.
Power tools
Power tools can affect the performance of RPE. You need to ensure that any air jets from the tools
do not impact on RPE valves located within the masks. If you are feeding both tools and your air
supply from the same compressor, you must ensure that the compressor is capable of outputting
enough air for both devices at the same time.
Wearer related factors.
It is important to take into account a workers characteristics when selecting RPE. Any items worn
on the head for fashion, cosmetic or religious reasons can restrict the choice of RPE for that
individual. If the cannot be eliminated, a loose fitting hood worn over the accessory may be
acceptable provided it gives the appropriate protection.
Facial Hair
Facial hair in the region where a mask will seal can cause a facemask to leak compromising the
protection. If facial hair cannot be eliminated, then you should consider the use of loose fitting
facepieces.
Facial Markings
Moles, scars, deep cuts, wrinkles etc. can affect the way a facemask seals. If these are present in
the face seal area, you will need to consider wearing loose fit facepieces.
Spectacles and contact lenses.
Spectacles with side arms are generally incompatible with full face masks because the side arms
break the face seal. The may also interfere with the correct fitting of half masks especially around
15
the nose bridge area. Special consideration and training needs to be given to contact lens or
spectacle wearers. You need to take into account:
•
•
•
If lenses are dislodged, the wearer may remove RPE to replace them while still in the
hazardous area, leading to exposure
A dislodged lens may jam in one of the RPE valves, leading to loss of protection
Contact lens wearers may be more susceptible to discomfort from the drying effects
of air flows.
The use of other PPE
You need to factor in the requirement for other PPE such as eye, ear, facial or head protection.
Whatever the requirement, the PPE must work together. Where possible, choose equipment that
are integrally combined
Medical conditions
It is important to consider medical conditions when selecting RPE. This includes claustrophobia,
heart disease, hearing defects, asthma and other respiratory disease. Day to day coughs/colds and
skin conditions as well as pregnancy are also relevant here.
16
Mask type
Common code
Protection factor
Fit test requirement
Work rate
Wear time
Standards
Half mask particle respirator
Half mask particle respirator
FFP1
4
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN149
FFP2
10
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN149
Half mask particle respirator
FFP3
20
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN149
Half mask particle respirator
FMP1
4
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN1827
Half mask particle respirator
FMP2
10
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN1827
Half mask particle respirator
FMP3
20
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
P1
4
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
P2
10
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
P3
20
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
Half mask gas/vapour
FFGas
10
*
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN1827
EN140 (Mask)
EN143 (Filter)
EN140 (Mask)
EN143 (Filter)
EN140 (Mask)
EN143 (Filter)
EN405
Half mask gas/vapour
FMGas
10
*
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
EN1827
Gas
10
*
Qualitative
Medium
<1hr
P1
4
Quantitative
Medium
<1hr
P2
10
Quantitative
Medium
<1hr
P3
40
Quantitative
Medium
<1hr
Gas
20
Quantitative
Medium
<1hr
TM1
10
Medium
>1hr
TM2
20
Medium
>1hr
TM3
40
Fan assisted respirator with hood
TH1
Fan assisted respirator with hood
Fan assisted respirator with hood
Half mask particle respirator
Half mask particle respirator
Half mask particle respirator
Half mask gas/vapour
Full face particle respirator
Full face particle respirator
Full face particle respirator
Full face gas/vapour respirator
Fan assisted respirator with mask
Fan assisted respirator with mask
Fan assisted respirator with mask
*
En140 (Mask)
EN14387 (Filter)
EN136 (Mask)
EN143 (filter)
EN136 (Mask)
EN143 (filter)
EN136 (Mask)
EN143 (filter)
EN136 (Mask)
EN14387 (Filter)
EN12942
Medium
>1hr
10
Half mask-qualitative
Full mask-quantitative
Half mask-qualitative
Full mask-quantitative
Half mask-qualitative
Full mask-quantitative
No
Medium
>1hr
EN12941
TH2
20
No
Medium
>1hr
EN12941
TH3
40
No
Medium
>1hr
EN12941
EN12942
EN12942
Table 4: Requirements and standards required for various RPE likely to be used within the University of Leicester:
Where qualitative test has been suggested, quantitative can also be used. Please consult HSG53 for further details of RPE which requires an independent air supply which are not covered
above. * you need to confirm the PF factor with the manufacturers as this will vary depending on the particle filter incorporated (if any) in the main filter
17
Respirator Selection Form
Name
Date of
assessment
Work Details
Department
Section
Location
Work
Duration
Work
frequency
Control Measures: What control measures are being used to reduce exposure?
Reason for using RPE
Residual Risk
Short duration work
Emergency escape
Interim measure
Confined space working
Unsure
Emergency work/rescue
No
Yes
Confined space?
Risk of oxygen
deficiency?
Substance release?
Substance
Risk Phrase
If you are unsure, seek
specialist advice. If yes you
must comply with Confined
spaces regulations. Use only
breathing apparatus with PF
of 40, unless a higher PF is
indicated below.
Additional protection in
case of control measure
failure
Health Hazard Group Amount
Dust/volatility
PF
Highest PF required
Task related factors
Work rate (heavy medium light)
Clarity of vision critical
Wear time <1hr, >1hr
Clarity of communication
critical
Congested work area
Abnormal temperatures or
humidity
Power tools used (list below)
Potentially explosive area
Mobility critical
RPE Selected
RPE type
BA
Respiratory
Respiratory
Make
Signature of assessor
Model
Filter type
Rating?
Review period
Tight fitting?
Appendix 4: Fit testing
Where tight fitting masks have been selected, fit testing is a formal requirement. The HSE has
produced a document, OC 282/28 “Fit testing of respiratory protective equipment facepieces”
which gives practical advice regarding fit testing. As this document is directed towards HSE
inspectors, it also gives an idea what they will be inspecting. At the end of this document is a face fit
form that can be used, but it is designed for qualitative testing only.
Fit testing must be undertaken by a competent person. To be competent, the person should have
knowledge and have received instruction and training in face-fitting and the HSE regulations and
approved codes of practice governing their use. One way of ensuring that the person is competent
to partake in the fit tester accreditation scheme that is supported by the HSE
(http://www.fit2fit.org).
Ideally, the wearer should be fit tested with the mask they will be wearing. If that is not available,
an identical mask should be used. Fit testing falls into two categories, qualitative and quantitative.
A number of exercises need to be performed to ensure that the facepiece is fitted adequate. Each
task is designed to stress the fit of the facemask and should be performed for 1 minute.
Exercise
1)
Description
Normal breathing
The wearer should breath normally with no head movements or
talking
2)
Deep breathing
3)
Turning head side to side
The wearer should breathe slowly and deeply, taking care so as
not to hyperventilate
The wearer should slowly turn their head from side to side
(approximately 15-20 times/min) The head shall be held at each
extreme momentarily so the wearer can inhale at each side
4)
Moving head up and down
The wearer should slowly move their head up and down
(approximately 15-20 times/min). The wearer should be
instructed to inhale in the up position (i.e. when looking to the
ceiling)
5)
Talking
The wearer should talk out loud slowly and loud enough so as to
be heard by the fit tester. The should read a prepared passage or
count down from 100
6)
Bending over
The wearer should stand and bend at the waist as if to touch
their toes and then return to an upright position. Repeat
approximately 10-15 times per min.
7)
Normal breathing
Table 5: Exercises suggested when face fit testing RPE.
Same as exercise 1
Qualitative fit testing
Qualitative fit testing is a simple pass/fail test based on the wearer’s subjective assessment of
leakage via the face seal region of a test agent. This test is very simple to perform but is only
suitable for half facemasks and half filtering facepieces. They are not suitable for full face masks.
The test agent may be a bitter or sweet compound, or may be an odour based compound.
Quantitative fit testing.
Quantitative fit testing provides an objective measure of face fit. This test requires specialist
equipment and is more complicated to carry out than qualitative methods. Furthermore,
quantitative testing should be performed whilst the wearer is either cycling on an exercise bike,
walking on a treadmill or carrying out a stepping exercise. Quantitative methods are required for
full face masks. However, due to the complexity of quantitative testing with the equipment
required and assigning fit factors you are advised to seek the assistance of face-fit specialists.
References
The control of substances hazardous to health regulations 2002 (as amended). Approved Code of
Practice and guidance L5 (Fifth edition). HSE Books 2005 ISBN 0 7176 2981 3
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l5.htm
The control of lead at Work regulations 2002- Approved code of practice and guidance L132 (Third
edition). HSE Books 2002 ISN 0 7176 2565 6 http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l132.htm
Work with Materials containing asbestos. Control of Asbestos regulations 2006. Approved code of
practice and guidance L143 HSE Books 2006 0 7176 6206 3
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l143.htm
Work with ionising radiation. Ionising radiations regulations 1999. Approved code of practice and
guidance L121 HSE Boks 2000 ISBN 0 7176 1746 3 http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l121.htm
Safe work in confined spaces. Confined spaces regulations 1997. Approved code of practice and
guidance L101 HSE Books 2009 ISBN 0 7176 6233 3 http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l101.htm
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended)Guidance on Regulations
L25 (second edition) ISBN 0 7176 6139 8 http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l25.htm
Respiratory protective equipment at work. A practical guide. HSG53 (third edition) ISBN 0 7176 2904
6 http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubs/books/hsg53.htm
Asthmagen? Critical assessments of the evidence for agents implicated in occupational asthma First
published 1997 (Amended 1998, 2001) http://www.hse.gov.uk/asthma/
Fit testing of respiratory protective equipment facepieces OC 282/28 HSE 2003 revised 2010.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/internalops
20
Face fit assessment
(Qualitative Only)
Name
Make/Model/Size
Date of assessment
Mask tested (own,
company pool or test
facepiece)
Serial number (if
applicable)
Condition of tested
facepiece
Process for which the
facemask is worn
How often should this
assessment be reviewed
Personal Characteristics
Headgear (turban, etc.)
Spectacles/ contact lenses
Facial hair
Eye, head, ear or facial
protection
Medical condition
Facial markings (e.g.
raised moles, piercings)
Test
Substance
Exercise taken
(yes/no)
Pass/fail
Did the test get
repeated
Normal
Breathing
Deep
breathing
Turing head
side to side
Moving
head up and
down
Talking
Bending
over
Normal
breathing
Face mask
suitable?
Fit testers Name
Department
Signature
21
Why was the test
repeated
Comments