Respiratory Protection Equipment
The Institute of Occupational Medicine has extensive expertise in respiratory protective equipment built on a long-standing and varied research programme that has included the setting of workplace protection factors to the assessment of efficacy of masks available through high street retail outlets. It is pleased to bring this experience to give independent advice to clients on the appropriate use of RPE for their industry to protect against traditional hazards such as asbestos and respiratory sensitisers, or emerging hazards such as pandemic 'flu.
Face Piece Fit Testing service
The IOM can undertake face piece fit testing for tight fitting RPE such as filtering face pieces, half masks, and full face masks respirators. Our service is run by fully trained staff with more than 15 years experience in this area and uses the best currently available methods. The tests are carried out using a Portacount particle counter either on the client's premises or at our headquarters in Edinburgh. We have UKAS accreditation for this service. We take pride in offering a high-quality service and recommend that 30 minutes is allocated for each individual. During this time we will give individual guidance and training to the subject, and in the event of failure, give advice so that the individual may continue their work. The cost is approximately £25 per individual (subject to location, minimum 10 tests) and discounts may apply for larger contracts.
RPE Fit Testing Training
For larger clients who already undertake, or are considering setting-up their own, in-house face piece testing programme, the IOM can offer a training day that covers the scientific background and legal framework relating to RPE, operation and maintenance of the Portacount machine, how to conduct a test, trouble shooting and management of a RPE fit test programme. The competency of the participants to perform face piece fit testing will be assessed and a certificate issued. This can be conducted on the client's premises or at the IOM headquarters in Edinburgh. A minimum of 2 people is required (maximum 4). The fixed price of this training programme is £3,000 and includes provision of course materials and the use of one Portacount for the day.