Face fit test: does the mask really seal?
A mask only protects if it seals on the face. The guide shows how to check the face seal every time you put the mask on and how to carry out a bitter-agent fit test at your site. With a record sheet for your files, in German and English.
- Guide and record (PDF, English) (opens in a new tab)
- Anleitung und Protokoll (PDF, Deutsch) (opens in a new tab)
The guide replaces neither the instructions for use of the mask nor the instructions of the test kit. Whether and how often a fit test is needed is set by the risk assessment under DGUV Rule 112-190 (Germany) or the rules that apply to you.
Two checks, two purposes
Every time the mask is put on
Seal check (user seal check)
Quick self-check by the wearer. Shows whether the mask seals now, but not whether the model suits the face.
On first issue and on change
Fit test
Systematic check with exercises whether model and size fit. Here: qualitative bitter test with hood and test solution.
Step 1: check the face seal every time the mask is put on
- 01
Put on
Put the mask on as described in the instructions for use and tighten the straps.
- 02
Cover the exhalation valve
Cover the exhalation valve with both palms and exhale slowly. With disposable respirators cup the mask with both hands and exhale forcefully.
- 03
Watch for air
If air escapes at the edge, reposition the mask and tighten the straps; with disposable respirators press the nose clip down harder.
- 04
Only then work
The face seal is checked every time the mask is put on, also after a break. A beard and sideburns in the sealing area prevent it.
Step 2: fit test with bitter agent in four parts
- 01
Check sensitivity
Without a mask, hood only: spray the test solution into the hood ten times. If the person tastes the bitter agent, the threshold is reached (10, otherwise 20 or 30).
- 02
Put on the mask with P3
Carry out the seal check, put on the hood, spray the test solution as many times as before, every 30 seconds spray half that amount again.
- 03
Seven exercises of 60 seconds
Normal breathing, deep breathing, turn head, head up and down, talking, bending or jogging, normal breathing.
- 04
Evaluate and file
If the person tastes the bitter agent, the mask is not suitable. Otherwise passed: fill in the record and file it.
Requirements
- No beard, sideburns or deep scars in the sealing area.
- During the test the mask carries P3 particle filters: AG360 and AG360W with AGP3R1 or AGP3R2, the AG700 with AGP3R1, AGP3R2 or AGP3R. FFP2 and FFP3 disposable respirators are tested without an extra filter.
- For 15 minutes before the test do not eat, drink only water, do not chew.
- The person tested is told beforehand what the test solution contains (water, salt, bitter agent).
- Test kit for qualitative bitter tests: hood, hood collar, two sprayers, two test solutions.
Frequently asked questions about the fit test
Is a fit test mandatory?
The instructions for use of the AirGuard Pro masks require a face seal before every use and mention the fit test. Whether and how often it is carried out at your site is set by the risk assessment under DGUV Rule 112-190 (Germany), usually together with the occupational safety specialist and the occupational physician.
What is the difference between a seal check and a fit test?
The wearer carries out the seal check every time the mask is put on: palms over the exhalation valve, exhale slowly. The fit test checks systematically, with exercises, whether model and size fit the face.
Why does the test need a P3 filter?
The bitter agent must not reach the airways through the filter, otherwise the test would be worthless. That is why the mask carries class P3 particle filters during the test. Gas filters alone are not suitable.
What if the person does not taste the bitter agent?
Then the bitter test is not suitable for them. After 30 sprays without taste another test method is chosen.
Does the test also apply to people with beards?
No. A beard, sideburns and deep scars in the sealing area prevent the face seal. The person cannot work with a tight-fitting mask and the test is not possible.
Can I get a test kit from you?
Ask through the advice request: we name suitable test kits for the qualitative bitter test and, on request, send mask samples for the test.
For purchasing and occupational safety
Test kit or masks for a wearing trial?
We name suitable test kits for the qualitative bitter test and send mask samples for the fit test of your employees.
