“Don’t Just Wear It—Fit It Right.”

Face Fitting

Face Fit Training – Because a Mask Is Only as Good as Its Fit

Wearing a tight-fitting mask is essential in environments where workers are exposed to dust, fumes, or hazardous airborne particles—but if the mask doesn’t fit properly, it can’t protect you.

This course provides essential training in Face Fit Testing, ensuring that respiratory protective equipment (RPE) forms an effective seal and delivers the protection it’s designed for. Whether you’re in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, or any high-risk environment, this training ensures you or your team are confident, compliant, and protected.

You’ll learn:

  • Why face fit testing is critical

  • Legal requirements and responsibilities

  • How to prepare for and carry out a fit test

  • Common fit issues and how to resolve them

Breathe easier knowing your mask—and your safety—fits perfectly.

How it works….

On the course

At a glance…

Up to 8 delegates

Half day course - can depend on delegate test results, may have 2nd test

No qualifications or PPE required

This training course is delivered on-site at your location or at a training centre location and typically lasts half a day, No formal qualifications are needed to attend, making it accessible to all experience levels. Group sizes are kept small, usually between 6–10 delegates, to ensure focused, hands-on learning. Delegates are not required to bring any PPE for this training course

Module 1: Understanding Face Fit & Legal Responsibilities

Topics Covered:

  • What is face fit testing and why it’s essential

  • Health risks of poor-fitting RPE

  • Types of masks: disposable, reusable, half and full-face

  • The legal framework (COSHH, HSE INDG479)

  • Employer and employee responsibilities

  • Selection of the correct RPE for the task

  • Preparation for testing: facial hair, PPE compatibility, common mistakes

  • Difference between daily fit checks and formal fit testing

Module 2: Practical Fit Testing & Certification

Topics Covered:

  • Overview of fit test methods (qualitative vs. quantitative)

  • Step-by-step demonstration of the qualitative fit test (bitter/sweet solution)

  • Individual face fit testing of each learner with feedback

  • Troubleshooting poor fit and retesting where needed

  • Issue of certificate upon successful completion

Practical Assessment – Face Fit Test

The practical assessment is the most important part of the training and involves each participant undergoing a formal face fit test to ensure their respiratory protective equipment (RPE) provides an effective seal.

Assessment Includes:

  • Visual inspection of the mask for integrity and correct type

  • Proper donning of the RPE (correct positioning, straps, and seal)

  • Completion of a qualitative face fit test using a bitter or sweet solution (as per HSE INDG479)

  • Performance of a series of movements (e.g. head turns, talking, deep breathing) during the test

  • Instructor observation and feedback throughout the process

  • Troubleshooting and retesting if an adequate seal is not achieved

Pass Criteria:

  • Demonstrates correct use and fitting of the mask

  • Successfully completes the fit test without tasting the test agent

  • Understands the importance of maintaining a good seal during use

  • Completes the post-test discussion and short knowledge check

Successful participants will be issued a Face Fit Certificate, confirming they are competent in wearing their RPE safely and effectively.