Description
Face Fit Train the Tester Course
Become a qualified face fit tester and help ensure your workforce is protected.
Our Face Fit Train the Tester course is a practical, in-depth training programme designed to teach participants how to competently perform qualitative face fit testing in line with INDG 479, HSG 53, and BSIF Fit2Fit guidance.
Delivered by experienced and Fit2Fit-accredited testers and trainers, this course is ideal for companies needing internal competence in respiratory protective equipment (RPE) testing — especially in sectors such as construction, facilities management, healthcare, catering and manufacturing.
What Is Face Fit Testing Train the Tester Training?
The Face Fit Train the Tester (FFTTT) course provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to conduct qualitative face fit testing of tight-fitting respirators, including FFP1, FFP2, FFP3 disposable masks and half-face reusable respirators.
The training aligns with:
- INDG 479 – HSE Guidance on face fit testing
- HSG 53 – Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work
- BSIF Fit2Fit Scheme – Best practice standards
Face fit testing is legally required under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) where RPE is used, and implied under other legislation such as Asbestos, Confined Space and Lead at work.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- Health & Safety officers and RPE coordinators
- Facilities management and site supervisors
- Internal trainers or compliance officers
- Construction and engineering site managers
- Occupational health and HR staff
- NHS trusts and healthcare organisations
- Anyone appointed to perform face fit testing in the workplace
- Anyone looking for training to support FIT2FIT assessment
No prior testing experience is required, though a basic knowledge of RPE is beneficial.
What You’ll Learn – Course Content
Theory Modules
- The need for face fit testing and HSE regulations
- Types of RPE and how they work (tight- vs. loose-fitting)
- Overview of COSHH, INDG 479, and HSG 53
- Principles of fit testing (qualitative vs. quantitative)
- Limitations and suitability of different mask types
- Maintenance and record keeping
- Troubleshooting common issues in fit testing
- Legal responsibilities of testers and employers
Practical Training
- Step-by-step setup of qualitative face fit test
- Sensitivity solution screening and taste threshold
- Conducting a full fit test with Bitrex or Saccharin
- Donning/doffing and test exercises
- Real-time coaching on test delivery and technique
- Recording, feedback, and documentation
- End-of-course practical assessment
Delegates will leave fully equipped to confidently carry out in-house qualitative face fit testing.
Duration, Certification & Validity
- Duration: 1 Day (Approx. 4 hours)
- Certification: PGL Midlands Certificate of Competence in Face Fit Testing
- Validity: Recommended refresher every 3 years or with regulatory changes
- Standard: In line with Fit2Fit, INDG 479, HSG 53, and BSIF recommendations
Delivered by Fit2Fit-Accredited Trainers
Our instructors are Fit2Fit accredited and have:
- Years of real-world testing experience
- Delivered large-scale face fit programmes across NHS trusts during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Trained testers for public and private sector organisations
- Expert-level knowledge of HSE requirements and PPE compliance
You’ll receive expert tuition, personal support, and full practical guidance throughout.
Where You Can Train
In-Person Classroom Training
Attend a public course at our centres in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Walsall, Doncaster, or Nottingham.
On-Site Group Training
We also deliver on-site training nationwide — perfect for companies wanting to upskill internal H&S or RPE coordinators. All you need is a suitable space and we’ll bring the full setup.
Group discounts and multi-site training available.
Why Choose PGL Midlands?
- Fit2Fit-accredited instructors with real industry credentials
- Trusted by the NHS, Tier 1 contractors, and FM providers
- Compliant with latest INDG 479, HSG 53, and BSIF guidance
- Fully hands-on and practical — no fluff
Book Your Face Fit Train the Tester Course
Don’t outsource what you can do in-house.
Train your team to test confidently, competently, and legally.
Call us on: 0121 240 0375
Email: sales@pglmidlands.com
Spread payments with Klarna at checkout
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the difference between qualitative and quantitative testing?
This course covers qualitative testing, which uses a bitter or sweet solution to detect mask seal.
Quantitative testing, which uses machines like Portacounts, is used for full-face RPE and is not included in this course.
Is this course accredited by Fit2Fit?
The course is delivered by Fit2Fit-accredited testers, ensuring it meets the highest standards, but the course itself is not a Fit2Fit-accredited scheme.
If you’re looking to become officially Fit2Fit certified, this course provides an excellent foundation.
Do I need to be a health & safety expert to take this?
No — this course is designed to give you everything you need to become a competent tester, regardless of prior experience.
Can we buy a face fit kit as part of the training?
Yes — we offer Face Fit Test Kits (Qualitative) for purchase during the course or in advance.
Ask us for details when booking. We also supply a range of RPE.
How long does the certificate last?
We recommend refresher training every 2–3 years or following any significant changes in legislation, RPE type, or test protocols.