Face Fit Testing Course
Key Features
Of this Face Fit Course:
- Covers both qualitative and quantitative face fit testing methods to current HSE and COSHH standards
- Includes practical sessions using multiple mask types including half-face, full-face and disposable RPE
- Teaches correct selection, donning, seal checking and troubleshooting for different face shapes and workplace conditions
- Addresses record-keeping, re-testing intervals and common causes of fit test failure in real industrial settings
- Prepares delegates to act as competent persons responsible for RPE programmes in their organisation
Course Date Availability
Face Fit training at the following 3 centres. Prices from £55 per person :
| Training Centres | Next Available Dates |
|---|---|
| Bolton | 15th Jun 202616th Jun 2026 |
| Liverpool | 8th Jul 2026 |
| Telford | 12th Aug 2026 |
Course Information
Overview:
Face Fit Testing training equips delegates with the knowledge and practical skills required to carry out respirator fit testing in accordance with HSE guidance and COSHH regulations. The course addresses the full range of testing methods, equipment and workplace scenarios encountered across construction, manufacturing, healthcare and hazardous substance handling environments. In 2026, accurate face fit testing remains a core requirement for any organisation relying on tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment to protect workers from airborne hazards.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- Health and safety managers responsible for RPE programmes
- Occupational health professionals conducting workplace testing
- Supervisors and team leaders in construction and manufacturing
- Facilities and maintenance staff who issue and check respirators
- Trainers and assessors delivering internal RPE instruction
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Legal duties under COSHH, HSWA and HSE guidance note HSG53
- Differences between qualitative and quantitative fit testing techniques
- Correct selection and use of half-mask, full-face mask and disposable respirators
- How to perform and interpret both taste/smell and particle-counting tests
- Troubleshooting poor fit caused by facial hair, glasses, scars or facial shape
- Documentation requirements and when re-testing is necessary
Course Agenda
Overview:
The course runs over one full day and combines classroom instruction with extensive practical exercises. Delegates spend significant time practising fit testing on a variety of mask types and face shapes under realistic conditions.
Key Modules Covered
What you will learn:
- Introduction to respiratory protection and why fit testing matters
- UK legislation, HSE guidance and employer responsibilities
- Types of RPE and factors affecting face seal performance
- Qualitative fit testing: method, solutions and pass criteria
- Quantitative fit testing: equipment operation and result interpretation
- Practical testing sessions with multiple respirator models
- Record keeping, re-testing intervals and programme management
Private Courses On-site
Face Fit Testing training is also available as a dedicated course, at your premises, and on a date and time of your choosing. Advantages of group / private course is the convenience of candidates being in familiar surroundings and not having to travel, the lowest price, and the ability to have the course tailored to your own application.
Latest Delegate Feedback
⭐ Rated 4.2 By Our Candidates - (169 reviews)
Face Fit Training was great, big hand to you all. Excellent tutor.. Karen Fraser helped us through the process really well.
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Stewart C - Wed 27th May 2026
13 people from the business said the training course was praise. Nicoleta Angheluta is an asset to Xyz.
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Sean K - Sun 24th May 2026
Kept informed nicely by Client Support....!
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Kyle G - Sat 23rd May 2026
I thought the training event which took place at the Leeds venue recently was well worth attending. Loved it! . Nicoleta was very communicative.
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Michelle B - Fri 22nd May 2026
Accreditation & Next Steps
What you will achieve as a result:
Delegates who successfully complete the practical and written assessments receive a certificate of competence. This certificate demonstrates that the holder can carry out face fit testing to current UK standards. Many organisations require refresher training every three years to maintain competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commonly asked Face Fit Testing questions:
The standard course is delivered over one full day with a combination of theory and practical testing sessions.
No formal qualifications are required, although delegates should have a basic understanding of workplace health and safety and be physically able to wear respiratory protective equipment during practical exercises.
The course covers legislation, RPE selection, qualitative and quantitative testing methods, practical fit testing on multiple mask types, troubleshooting poor seals and record-keeping requirements.
Delegates complete a short written test and must demonstrate competent practical fit testing technique on at least two different respirator types.
Successful delegates receive a certificate of competence in Face Fit Testing valid for three years.
Refresher training is recommended every three years to maintain competence and keep up with any changes in HSE guidance.
Qualitative testing uses a taste or smell agent to detect leakage, while quantitative testing uses a particle-counting device to measure the fit factor numerically.
All testing equipment and respirators are provided. Delegates only need to bring photo identification and any prescription glasses they normally wear with RPE.
Yes, the course can be delivered at your workplace provided suitable space and access to delegates' own RPE is available.
Yes, the course covers disposable FFP3 respirators as well as reusable half and full-face masks so delegates learn the correct test method for each type.
Additional supervised practice is provided on the day. Delegates who still need more time can return for a short re-assessment session at a later date.
This course trains delegates to become competent fit testers who can perform and document tests for others. RPE awareness training only teaches wearers how to use equipment correctly.
Prices per person typically start at £55. Discounts available for multi person or group bookings (depending upon location)
More Information
The training focuses on the practical skills needed to deliver reliable face fit testing results in varied workplace environments. Delegates leave with the ability to select appropriate test methods, recognise invalid results and maintain accurate records that satisfy regulatory inspection.
Last updated: Jun 2026 • Part of XYZ Training Group