RESPIRATORY HEALTH ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL
Respiratory disease affects one in five people and is the third largest cause of death in England, costing the UK economy billions of pounds every year. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is designed to keep vulnerable workers safe, yet research shows that up to 50% of RPE users may still be breathing in harmful substances. If we are to protect workers and reduce the economic impact on our health service, RPE needs to be adequate and suitable.
The effectiveness of RPE is often hindered by several factors: poor fit, insufficient training, incorrect RPE selection for the hazard, inadequate maintenance and improper storage. This can lead to a range of potentially deadly illnesses when exposed to harmful dusts, gases, fumes and other airborne hazards in the workplace. As these illnesses can take years to develop, compounded from repeated exposure at work, many employees don’t recognise the danger. However, some deadly substances can cause fatal illness from just one exposure.
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work guide details the procedures that employers must implement to prevent and adequately control employees’ exposure to hazardous substances. The selection of RPE should be based on the findings from an employer’s Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) risk assessment.
The two main criteria for the selected equipment to be deemed effective are:
● Adequate – Right for the hazard present and reduces exposure to the level required to protect the wearer’s health.
● Suitable – The equipment fits the wearer comfortably and securely while also right for the environment and tasks.
Ensuring the effectiveness of RPE starts with recognising that one size does not fit all. For tight- fitting facepieces, face fit testing is not just a recommendation; it is a critical requirement to guarantee that the respirator or mask forms a proper seal with the wearer’s face, effectively preventing hazardous substances from bypassing the protective equipment. This process must consider individual differences, including the presence of other PPE such as glasses, headwear and ear defenders or other facial features that could interfere with the fit.
For instance, facial hair, a seemingly minor detail, can significantly compromise the integrity of a seal. Therefore, those undergoing fit testing must be clean-shaven to ensure the highest level of protection. Inadequate fit equates to inadequate protection, rendering the equipment virtually useless.
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Kevin Williams, Respiratory Manager at Arco Professional Safety Services, urges businesses to better understand Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) regulations and the necessity of face fit testing to ensure workers are protected.
Professionalism in conducting these face fit tests cannot be overstated. Tests should always be carried out by competent professionals, particularly when a COSHH risk assessment identifies a high level of risk or specifies the need for tight-fitting RPE. Annual retests are essential, and any significant changes in a worker’s facial structure—due to weight loss, scarring, or other factors—should trigger an immediate retest.
As the HSE intensifies its focus on respiratory health inspections, businesses must fully grasp legal requirements to protect workers. It is no longer sufficient to rely solely on basic toolbox talks; a comprehensive approach to training on the selection, use, and maintenance of RPE is imperative.
To achieve this, businesses must implement rigorous protocols for RPE maintenance, including monthly examinations and tests. Proper training must encompass all aspects of RPE usage: correct donning, cleaning, maintenance to industry standards, and timely replacement.
Furthermore, meticulous record-keeping of all RPE examinations, tests, and repairs is crucial. Retaining these records for a minimum of five years not only aids in tracking equipment maintenance but also serves as tangible proof of compliance with HSE regulations.
With the right fit, training and maintenance, the risk of workers developing deadly respiratory diseases can be reduced or eliminated. The RPE technicians at Arco Professional Safety Services deliver Fit2Fit accredited services and tailor-made learning packages to provide employees with the knowledge needed to meet regulations, ensuring compliance and the protection of worker health.
www.arcoservices.co.uk/services/respiratory-protection-services www.arco.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com
For Arco’s full guidance, visit:
www.arcoservices.co.uk/ services/respiratory-protection-services.
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