Face fit testing

Clarification on the use of extended ports

On 24 March 2025, HSE issued a short ebulletin following the publication of research report (RR) 1222: Face Fit testing of FFP3 respirators: the impact of sampling port location. In this, it stated the use of an extended port as a requirement.

While an extended port can be used, it is not a requirement. It is still acceptable to use a flush port to conduct face fit testing with an FFP respirator.

HSE's publication Guidance on respiratory protective equipment fit testing (INDG479) provides information on how the various face fit testing methods should be performed.

Fit testing should be conducted by a competent person. Competence can be demonstrated by accreditation under the Fit2Fit RPE Fit Test Providers Accreditation Scheme.

Following this guidance and scheme is not compulsory and you are free to take other actions. But if you do, you will normally be doing enough to comply with the requirements of the law.

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