HS&E Operatives practice question: Respiratory risks and silica dust (2 of 7)
B. Occupational health A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
You have been face-fit tested for a tight-fitting dust mask. Today you haven't shaved for three days.
What does this mean?
Choose one answer.
AA. You should wear two masks, one on top of the other
BB. You should tighten the straps as hard as you can
CC. The stubble will stop the mask sealing to your face
DD. Nothing, as your face-fit test still counts
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: C
A. Wrong: Wrong. Two masks won't seal any better and may make things worse. You need a good seal or a different type of RPE.
B. Wrong: Wrong. Tighter straps won't seal over stubble, and the mask will be uncomfortable to wear.
C. Right: Right. HSE says stubble and beards make it impossible to get a good seal. Shave, or use a type of RPE that does not rely on a tight fit, such as a powered hood.
D. Wrong: Wrong. The fit test was done on a clean-shaven face. Stubble lets dusty air leak round the edge of the mask.
Explanation
Tight-fitting masks only work if they seal to your face. Be clean-shaven when you wear one, or ask for RPE that doesn't need a tight fit.