The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued a safety alert for respirators and masks that rely on ear loops and are being used as respiratory protective equipment (RPE).
New research by the HSE has shown that this type of RPE which relies on ear loops to hold the respirator or mask in place, does not provide adequate protection when being used as tight fitting RPE.
Respirators or masks using ear loops are, in most cases, unlikely to provide the wearer with the right protection. This includes any those which use clips, 'snuggers' or other tightening ear loops, even if they have CE or UKCA marks.
The HSE does not recommend using such mask as tight fitting RPE.
All dutyholders who use such items in the workplace, are advised to revisit their COSHH risk assessment, as required under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations SI 2002/2677, and consider the type of RPE they are using to ensure it offers adequate protection and it suitable for the user and the task being undertaken.
More information on this safety alert can be found on the HSE website - Ear loop respirators/masks do not provide protection as tight fitting RPE.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSE NI) have also issued the same safety alert for businesses in Northern Ireland. More information can be found on their website - HSENI Safety Alert: Ear loop respirators/masks do not provide protection as tight fitting RPE.
