Kate Harrison

The BSIF Safety Awards' winners were announced as part of the Safety & Health Excellence Awards. We congratulate everyone for their fantastic efforts. See the list of those commended, highly commended and winners here ➡️ ow.ly/9cqQ50IG7Xa

Employers: It is a legal requirement that workers using tight fitting RPE are fit-tested by a competent person. The Fit2Fit RPE Fit Test Providers Accreditation Scheme helps you confirm the competency of those performing facepiece fit-testing. ➡️ ow.ly/DQep30mu67b

RPE must be matched to the job, the environment, the airborne contaminant exposure level and the wearer. One type or size of facepiece will not fit everyone correctly. #ppe Fit testing helps ensure that the equipment selected is suitable for a specific wearer.

Reminder: Dust can build up in the lungs and harm them gradually over time. The effects of this are often not immediately obvious and by the time it is noticed the damage done may already be serious and life changing. It can mean permanent disability and early death.

Employers: Help your workers keep safe when using RPE by providing filter changing guidance and establishing clear procedures for your workers to follow.

RPE Basics: Don't forget that a tight-fitting facepiece relies on having a good seal with the wearer’s face. These are available as both non-powered and powered respirators and BA. Examples are filtering facepieces, half and full-face masks.

Fit testing should be carried out as part of the initial selection of RPE and where an untested facepiece is already in use. Remember that a fit test does not remove the need for correct and careful day-to-day fitting of the facepiece, which should always include a fit check.

Employers: Are you sure your workers are using the right types of RPE? Take a look at this useful presentation: ow.ly/3qi350AQgDj

Adequate RPE is right for the hazard and reduces exposure to the level required to protect the wearer’s health. Suitable RPE is right for the wearer, the task and the environment so that the wearer can work freely and without additional risks due to the RPE.