Fit2Fit Accreditation: Why It Matters for Respiratory Safety
Fit2Fit Accreditation: Why It Matters for Respiratory Safety
At G&L, safety isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live by. One of the ways we show that commitment is through the Fit2Fit accreditation. This means our accredited face fit testers are recognised for meeting the highest standards, giving you confidence that your team is properly protected.
Why Face Fit Testing Is So Important
If your team works around dust, fumes, vapours or gases, and they’re using tight-fitting respirators (this also includes disposables!), then face fit testing is a legal requirement. It’s there to make sure the mask forms a proper seal with the wearer’s face, so harmful substances can’t sneak in.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has found that poor fit is one of the main reasons RPE fails. If the mask doesn’t fit correctly, it won’t protect the wearer. It’s as simple as that.
What Is Fit2Fit?
Fit2Fit is a UK accreditation scheme run by the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) in partnership with the HSE. It’s designed to make sure face fit testers are properly trained and follow best practice.
Although it’s not a legal requirement to use a Fit2Fit-accredited tester, doing so shows you’re serious about safety. It also helps you stay compliant with COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health).
What Employers Need to Know
If you’re responsible for workplace safety, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Face fit testing must be done before someone uses a respirator
- Re-testing is needed if someone’s facial features change significantly
- The same make, model and size of mask must be used as the one tested
Bringing in a Fit2Fit-accredited tester helps you meet these requirements and shows you’re taking a proactive approach to protecting your team.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
According to the HSE:
- Around 12,000 people die each year from lung diseases linked to past workplace exposure
- There are 17,000 new cases of work-related breathing or lung problems every year
These figures highlight just how important proper respiratory protection is. The HSE also points out that facial hair can prevent a proper seal, so workers need to be clean-shaven or use alternative RPE that doesn’t rely on a tight fit.
Raising the Bar Across the Industry
The Fit2Fit scheme helps create consistency and quality in face fit testing. It sets a clear benchmark for what good looks like, so everyone’s working to the same high standard.
At G&L, we believe safety should never be compromised. Our Face Fit Testers Fit2Fit accreditation is just one of the ways we show our commitment to keeping people safe and healthy at work.
