According to guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), tight-fitting respirators should not be used with any facial stubble. This is because even a small amount of stubble can prevent the mask from sealing properly to the face, which significantly reduces the respirators effectiveness.
To ensure the best possible protection, individuals must be clean-shaven in the areas where the mask seals against the face. The HSE recommends that wearers are to be clean-shaven within 8 hours of starting their shift prior to respirator use. This means that some people may need to shave more than once a day to maintain a proper fit and ensure the mask provides adequate protection.
Research published by the HSE shows that as facial hair grows, the performance of tight-fitting masks declines, compromising the safety of the wearer.
Key points:
- Tight-fitting respirators should not be used with any facial stubble. The respirator seal will be compromised, leakage will be identified.
- A clean shaven face is necessary in all areas where the respirator seal touches the face.
- Respiratory wearers are to be clean-shaven within 8 hours of a starting their shift.
- Shaving more than once a day may be necessary for some individuals.
- Stubble can compromise the seal, reducing the respirator’s effectiveness.
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