With the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, face masks seem to be the rage. However, little attention has been paid to the effective use of masks especially in a working environment. To be effective, masks must form a suitable seal around the wearers face. But this is not always done nor is it always possible. All ill-fitting mask will either not provide any protection or at best reduce the protection afforded.
The mask needs to form an effective seal around the face of the wearer. This can be affected by;
- weight loss or gain
- Facial hair
- substantial dental work
- Facial jewellery
- any facial changes (scars, moles, effects of ageing etc) around the face seal area
- facial piercings
- introduction or change in other head-worn personal protective equipment (PPE)
Tests
To ensure that masks fit correctly and are effective, the employer should carry out Face Fit Tests which should be carried out by someone with appropriate knowledge and experience. The tester should ensure he/she has his/her mask on or other form of respiratory equipment to minimise the risk of passing on the virus. The following steps are recommended.
- fit testers should follow government advice as they can make observations from a distance and deliver any instructions verbally
- those being fitted should keep their respirators on, as much as possible to minimise risk to the tester
- both the fit tester and those being fit tested should wash their hands before and after the test
- those being fit tested with non-disposable masks should clean the mask themselves before and immediately after the test using a suitable disinfectant cleaning wipe (check with the manufacturer to avoid damaging the mask)
- test face pieces that cannot be adequately disinfected (for example disposable half masks) should not be used by more than one individual
- fit testers should wear disposable gloves when cleaning tubes, hoods etc and ensure they remove gloves
- immediately dispose of used gloves, disposable masks, cleaning wipes etc in a waste bin
PPE
When using other forms of respiratory breathing equipment, staff should be informed, trained and supervised in the safe and correct use/handling/cleaning/storage of the PPE. Items which cannot be disposed should be cleaned thoroughly with a suitable disinfectant, which does not cause breathing difficulties. The PPE storage box should contain suitable cleaning materials. Where necessary, spare filters should be supplied in the storage box.
The purpose of masks and other breathing apparatus is to ensure workers do not inhale or ingest dangerous dusts, gases, vapour, mists or airborne particles, including COVID-19. Unless the equipment is effective, staff will not be receiving the protection they are entitled to, and the employer will have wasted money, and may ace civil and criminal claims. Call Quest to receive practical advice on the use, handling and storage of all PPE on 01455 852028.
