The INDG 479 Fit Test Protocol

Fit Test Exercises

The INDG479 Fit Test protocol comprises seven test exercises. The wearer must achieve a pass result in each of the seven test exercises within one single testing period, i.e. if a single one of the exercises fails then the whole test must be repeated.

Download INDG 479 from the HSE website (PDF)

The fit test exercises for both qualitative and quantitative fit test methods are:

• Normal Breathing
• Deep Breathing
• Head Side to Side
• Head Up and Down
• Talking
• Bending
• Normal Breathing

INDG 479 states that for a quantitative (ambient particle counting) fit test, these exercises should be performed while the candidate is performing a dynamic activity such as: cycling on an exercise bike, walking on a treadmill or carrying out a stepping exercise. The dynamic activity should induce a physical workload on the wearer.

Fit Factor Pass Levels

The minimum Fit Factor which must be achieved in each of the individual test exercises depends upon the type of facepiece being tested:

• Half Mask and FFP3 Disposable Mask, Fit Factor Pass Level = 100*
• Full Face Masks (All types), Fit Factor Pass Level = 2000

*When using a PortaCount, FFP1 and FFP2 disposable half masks can only be fit tested if N95 technology is employed.

It should be noted that the Fit Factor should not be used when calculating an individual’s actual exposure to hazardous substances. The Fit Factor is the result of fit testing and is valid at the time of testing only. The Assigned Protection Factor (APF) should always be used when selecting RPE for use at work.