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Coronavirus staff guidance University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust

Fitting and putting on an FFP3 respirator

Last updated: 22 December 2021 at 08:19

Key facts

FFP3 respirators are designed to protect the wearer from breathing in small airborne particles which might contain viruses.

They should be worn when caring for any suspected or positive COVID patient, and when carrying out potentially infectious aerosol generating procedures on any patient, or where a patient is known/suspected to have an infection spread via the aerosol route.

A successful fit test must be achieved to wear an FFP3 respirator in practice. Fit testing arrangements can be discussed with line managers. Please note that a fit check is different to a fit test and is required every time an FFP3 respirator is applied.

The respirator images shown below are for illustrative purposes only. Further guidance can also be viewed via the Trust fit checking video.

How to fit your respirator correctly

An instructional video and a visual step-by-step guide are available. A fit checking course is also available on UHB Moodle.

Step 1

Hold the respirator in one hand and separate the edges to fully open It with the other hand. Bend the nose wire (where present) at the top of the respirator to form a gentle curve.  

Step 2

 

Turn the respirator upside down to expose the two headbands, and then separate them using your index finger and thumb. Hold the headbands with your index finger and thumb and cup the respirator under your chin. 

Step 3

Position the upper headband on the crown of your head, above the ears. not over them. Position the lower strap at the back or your head below your ears. 

Step 4

Ensure that the respirator is flat against your cheeks. 

Step 5

Mould the nosepiece across the bridge of your nose by firmly pressing down with your fingers until you have a good facial fit. If a good fit cannot be achieved, do not proceed. 

How to perform a fit check

Cover the front of the respirator with both hands, being careful not to disturb the position of the respirator on the face.

For an unvalved product - exhale sharply; for a valved product - inhale sharply.

If air flows around the nose, readjust the nosepiece; if air flows around the edges or the respirator, readjust the headbands.

A successful fit check is when there is no air leaking from the edges of the respirator. Always perform a fit check before entering the work area.

If a successful fit check cannot be achieved, remove and refit the respirator.

If you still cannot obtain a successful fit check, do not enter the work area.

Remember

Respirators must be used with other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns, gloves and suitable eye protection.

FFP3 respirators are single use items and must be discarded after use as healthcare waste.

Hand hygiene must be performed before application and after removal of PPE.

FFP3 masks can only be worn when clean shaven. Other obstructions such as glasses need to be removed prior to application and placed back on once fit check has completed. Hair must be tied back from the face.

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