Why Ambulance Workers Should Be Face Fit-Tested

As the first medical professionals on scene, they often attend calls with only limited information, so the possibility that they will be in close proximity to people with infectious illnesses can never be excluded.

Provision of light, portable, easy-to-use FFP respirators therefore, is an effective strategy that can help to protect paramedics in the course of their work, however, FFP/N95 respirators are only effective if they seal to the face of the wearer so face fit testing (FFT), should form part of this strategy. In this article, we’ll explore some compelling reasons why all ambulance workers should undergo FFT.

Lessons Learned

The Covid-19 Pandemic highlighted the importance of proper Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) for healthcare workers, including ambulance staff. While many people were safe in their homes during the UK-wide lockdowns, paramedics were on the road assisting patients, some of whom were infected with the virus which, in the early stages of the pandemic, had few recognised treatments. RPE, such as FFP3 masks or powered respirator hoods, helped healthcare workers to stay safe from the disease. The crisis highlighted the importance of preparedness for ambulance staff and the critical role of face fit testing in protecting frontline workers from infectious pathogens.

A Legal Requirement

In many countries, including the UK, it is a legal requirement for employers in some industries to conduct face fit testing for all employees using tight-fitting RPE. This is crucial to ensure the safety and health of workers who may be exposed to respiratory hazards, but RPE must fit correctly as poorly fitting masks are likely to be ineffective. Where ambulance staff may potentially be exposed to infectious or dangerous pathogens, employers must comply with regulations to protect paramedics’ safety and wellbeing and avoid potentially costly repercussions.

Affording The Highest Level Of Protection

The primary goal of face fit testing is to verify that the RPE provides adequate protection. For ambulance workers, this is crucial, as they frequently encounter situations where aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) are performed, such as intubation or nebuliser treatments. In these scenarios, infectious agents can be transmitted via aerosols, which are smaller and can remain airborne longer than droplets. Properly fitted RPE ensures that paramedics are shielded from these hazards, reducing their risk of contracting and spreading infections.

Education And Retesting

Face fit testing also helps wearers of RPE to understand how to correctly wear and remove their respirators and recognise when a respirator no longer fits properly due to changes in facial characteristics, such as weight gain or loss, scars, or moles. Regular retesting, which is recommended every two years by British and International Standards, ensures the ongoing effectiveness of face masks. Also, a new fit test is necessary if a different model or size of respirator is introduced, ensuring that the new equipment offers the same level of protection.

Find Out More

At Fire Safe International, we offer expert advice and training about face fit testing for the emergency services. For more information, please get in touch today.

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