Do you need a face fit test for a Scott Aviva 40 half mask?

Whether you are a seasoned wearer of protective equipment, or you are new to the world of half mask respirators, the requirements and specifications can often be confusing! This article will explain what a face fit test is, what a Scott Aviva 40 half mask can protect you against, and whether you will need to get yourself face fit tested.

What is a face fit test?

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is designed to protect the wearer form hazardous airborne particles such as dust, gas and particulates. In order to provide an effective level of protection though, the RPE must fit well and be securely worn.

One of the biggest challenges of effective RPE is that wearers come in all shapes and sizes and all have a unique set of needs. Not every face mask will fit every wearer well enough to provide protection from harmful airborne substances. This is why RPE face fit testing is so important!

Anybody who wears a tight fitting or close fitting face piece is required to have a face fit test carried out by an accredited Fit2Fit engineer. This test must be carried out on each mask that an individual may wear.

‘tight fitting’ or ‘close fitting’ face pieces include:

• Full breathing apparatus masks (including positive pressure)
• Escape set masks
• Powered respirators
• Reusable half masks
• Disposable half masks

Face fit testing is used to determine the integrity of the mask you have, and the seal it makes with your face. Respirator fit testing scientifically proves that your mask is giving you the correct protection you need, or it will let you know that your mask is not fit for purpose and you can take the relevant steps to stay safe.

You should repeat a face fit test regularly, around every one to two years, depending on the risk level. Wearers should also be re-tested if they experience weight loss or gain, major dental work, changes in facial features or structure, or changes in scars or moles where the mask creates a seal to the face. All of these changes may impact the efficacy of the mask as they may alter the seal between the mask and the wearer.

The HSE may prosecute an individual if they have not been adequately tested, unless there is evidence provided that procedures have met or exceeded testing protocol laid down in HSE guidance, INDG479.

More information on the legal requirements can be found HERE 

What is the Scott Aviva 40 half mask for?

The Scott Aviva 40 half mask is a single filter face piece from Scott Safety. The mask features innovative design elements such as a hybrid reflex face seal, an easy-to-use leak check mechanism and goggle ‘pinch’. All of these features have been designed with user comfort and protection in mind.

The Aviva half mask is compatible with the Pro2000 range of filters and can therefore protect the wearer against solid and liquid particles, e.g. dusts, smoke, welding fumes, mists, micro-organisms and radioactive particles. The gas filters in the range protect against hazardous gases and vapours. Finally, the combined filters protect against both gaseous and particulate contaminants

Therefore, the Scott Aviva 40 half mask is an incredibly versatile mask, suitable for a wide range of applications such as paint spraying, chemical environments, manufacturing and handling & disposal of asbestos.

Scott Aviva 40 half mask Specifications:

• Goggle pinch – designed for improved eye PPE integration
• Easy to use leak check mechanism
• Designed to fit a high percentage of all face shapes & sizes
• ?Single filter half mask utilising the Pro2000 range of filters
• Reflex seal absorbs facial movements, maintaining protection
• 210 grams
• Available in Small, Medium & Large

More about the Pro2000 filter range can be found HERE. 

You can browse and purchase yours HERE.

What happens in a face fit test?

Up to one hour before the test, please refrain from smoking, eating or drinking.

It is mandatory that each candidate is clean shaven. Engineers will not attempt to fit test anyone with more than one days growth as this will interfere with the seal of your mask.

The Face Fit Test will involve mild physical activity (walking up and down stairs, for example). These movements simulate working conditions and ensure that your mask will keep you safe when it is being used. It is the employers responsibility to explain the health requirements to their staff prior to the Face Fit Test. If the candidate has any of the following conditions, it is important to thoroughly consider their ability to take this test:

• Respiratory Problems such as Asthma
• Heart disease
• Angina
• High or low blood pressure
• Panic attacks
• Claustrophobia
• Have had a stroke

We have adapted our face fit testing procedure to ensure all parties safety throughout during COVID-19.

Below are the measures now in place:

• Our tester will always be wearing gloves
• Maximum of 1 tester and 1 operative in the room at any time
• We are sterilising all masks and tubes in between uses
• Hand sanitiser is available to everyone
• Social distancing is in place where possible

So, do you need a fit test for a Scott Aviva 40 half mask?

The simple answer is, yes!

In order to ensure that your mask will protect you against harmful substances, you must have a face fit test carried out by an accredited Fit2Fit engineer.

Keep your face fit tests up to date, and get re-tested if there are any changes to the area where the mask seals to your face. Remember that facial hair will disrupt this seal and your mask will not protect you to its full extent.

To book your face fit test, contact us today HERE.