Fit2Fit accredited RPE specialists, working with Betafit to service and support trusted respiratory equipment.
RPE Examination & Servicing for High-Risk Workplaces
Velocity Safety carries out full COSHH Reg 9–compliant examinations, servicing and testing of reusable RPE used in demanding environments – from manufacturing and engineering to spray booths and multi-site operations.
We ensure every respirator, powered unit and air-fed system remains safe, functional and fully compliant.
What’s included:
- Full checks on half masks, full-face masks, PAPR/TH units and airline-fed systems
- End-to-end system testing from compressor → airline → regulator → mask
- Seal, valve, hose, airflow and component integrity checks
- Manufacturer-aligned servicing and part replacements where required
- Clear next-due dates, unit IDs and same-day digital reports
- Support for small teams, large fleets and multi-department sites
Fit2Fit-accredited technicians using UKAS-traceable equipment.
Never miss a COSHH Reg 9 due date again. Keep every RPE unit compliant and audit-ready with our scheduled examination & servicing.
Examples of respiratory protective equipment and devices that require examination and servicing.
- Half face masks / respirators
- Full face masks / respirators
- Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR units – TH1, TH2, TH3)
- Positive-pressure airline breathing apparatus
- Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Air-fed systems and fresh-air hose units
Common brands serviced include Sundström, 3M, JSP, Centurion, Scott Safety, Gentex and others.
Who We Support With RPE Examination & Servicing
Velocity Safety provides COSHH Reg 9–compliant RPE servicing for organisations that rely on reusable respirators, powered air systems and air-fed breathing apparatus. These industries face higher exposure risks, larger equipment fleets and greater compliance pressures – and we help keep every unit safe, functional and audit-ready.
Manufacturing & Engineering Sites
Using full-face respirators, powered air systems or airline-fed equipment? We service and maintain all major brands – including Sundström, 3M, JSP and Centurion – with documented next-due dates for every unit.
Spray Booths, Automotive & Isocyanate Users
Running PAPR/TH units or air-fed helmets for coatings and refinishing work? We test airflow, examine hoses and regulators, and service powered systems to keep your operators protected from isocyanates and solvent hazards.
Welding & Fabrication Workshops
Working with fumes, particulates or metal vapours? We service reusable masks and powered air systems used by welders and fabricators, ensuring they continue to deliver the APF your risk assessment relies on.
Woodworking, Joinery & Silica Dust Environments
Using reusable half masks or powered air units for MDF, hardwood or silica dust? We examine filters, seals and airflow performance to keep your workforce protected during high-exposure tasks.
Confined Space, Rescue & Breathing Apparatus Users
Relying on airline-fed respirators or SCBA sets for high-risk access? We examine, test and service breathing apparatus to ensure reliable performance in the most demanding environments.
Multi-Site & Multi-Department Operations
Managing RPE across several teams or locations? We create centralised asset registers, assign unit IDs, track service intervals and provide same-day digital reports for audit-ready compliance.
Our RPE Examination & Servicing Process
RPE servicing goes beyond a standard inspection – we assess performance, components and system integrity to ensure compliance with COSHH Reg 9. Our Fit2Fit-accredited technicians follow a structured, COSHH Reg 9–compliant process to examine, test and service your reusable RPE – including full system checks for powered air and airline-fed units.
1. Equipment Inventory & Type Check
We log every mask, PAPR unit, hose and airline-fed system, assign or confirm unit IDs, and review usage records. This creates the compliance baseline your site will work from going forward.
2. Visual Inspection & Seal Integrity Check
Each respirator or powered unit is examined for seal condition, valve performance, strap wear, casing damage and overall fitness for use, in line with COSHH Reg 9 and HSG53 requirements.
3. Filter, Hose & Component Assessment
We assess filters for expiry, compatibility and condition, check airflow paths, inspect hoses/regulators (if fitted) and identify any components requiring repair or replacement. We’ll advise on approved parts where needed.
4. Servicing & System Testing (Where Applicable)
Powered air systems and airline-fed equipment are tested for flow rate, pressure, and performance. Manufacturer-aligned servicing is carried out where required to ensure the equipment delivers the Assigned Protection Factor (APF) your risk assessment depends on.
5. Reporting, Certification & Next-Due Dates
You receive a digital report for each item, including pass/fail results, service findings and clear next-due dates. Your register is fully updateable for audits and HSE inspections.
Faulty unit? We’ll identify the issue, recommend repairs, and advise whether the item can be returned to service safely. Most clients combine RPE Servicing with our Breathing Air Testing and Face Fit Testing to create a complete respiratory compliance programme.
Servicing Powered Air Respirators (PAPR) – TH1, TH2 & TH3 Explained
Most businesses assume that all P3 filters offer the same level of protection. They don’t. The protection level of a powered respirator depends on the unit’s airflow performance and its TH classification – not just the filter label.
- TH1: Assigned Protection Factor (APF) 10 – basic protection
- TH2: APF 20 – medium protection
- TH3: APF 40 – high protection for hazardous tasks such as isocyanates, welding fumes and fine particulates
During servicing we test flow rate, check battery and motor performance, examine hoses and regulators, and ensure the unit is still capable of delivering its stated protection level. This is one of the most common failures we see when PAPRs are not serviced regularly.
If a powered unit cannot maintain the required airflow, it won’t achieve its TH rating – even with a brand-new filter.
Support for Multi-Site Operations & Fast Turnarounds
Many of our clients operate multiple sites, departments or production lines, each with dozens of RPE units in circulation. We provide flexible examination and servicing programmes tailored to your operational needs.
- On-site servicing across the North West and wider UK
- Fast lead times for high-risk or production-critical environments
- Workshop servicing for PAPR units, airline systems and SCBA
- Centralised RPE registers for multi-department compliance
- Unit ID assignment and next-due dates for every item
- Same-day digital reports for audits, insurers and HSE visits
Whether you manage a single facility or a national operation, we keep your respiratory protection programme organised, compliant and fully documented.
Respiratory Protective Equipment and Respiratory Protective Device Thorough Examinations and Servicing
It is a requirement that all non disposable respiratory protective equipment and devices are thoroughly examined, maintained and serviced at set intervals.
This is identified within the following regulations:
- Control of substances hazardous to health regulations 2002
- Control of Asbestos regulations 2012
- Control of Lead at Work regulations 2002
- Confined Space Regulations 1997
This is in addition to a respirator face fit test.
This service focuses on RPE servicing, maintenance, fault finding, component checks and system performance testing. If you only need a scheduled visual and functional check of reusable RPE, see our RPE Inspections service.
What’s the Difference Between Checks, Face Fit Testing and RPE Servicing?
RPE compliance involves several different activities, and they’re often confused. Here’s the simple breakdown so you know exactly what this service covers.
Pre-Use Checks (Completed by the Wearer)
Basic visual and functional checks performed before every use to confirm the mask, straps, valves and filters are in good condition. These are not recorded inspections and do not replace formal servicing.
Face Fit Testing (Separate Service)
Ensures a specific tight-fitting mask seals to the wearer’s face. This is about the person, not the equipment. Required whenever a new model or size is issued, or when facial features change. For full details or to arrange testing, see our
Face Fit Testing service.
Thorough Examination & Servicing (This Page)
A documented examination, test and service of reusable RPE – including seals, valves, hoses, filters, airflow and system performance – completed at manufacturer-set intervals in line with COSHH Reg 9 and HSG53. This ensures the equipment itself remains safe, functional and compliant.
Common RPE Faults Found During Servicing
Most issues with reusable RPE aren’t visible to the wearer. These are the faults we regularly identify during COSHH Reg 9 examinations and servicing – and why they matter.
| Common Fault | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Worn or damaged face seals | Breaks the seal, allowing contaminants to bypass filtration – invisible to the wearer. |
| Cracked or degraded inhalation/exhalation valves | A failed valve makes the respirator unsafe even if the rest appears in good condition. |
| Incorrect or expired filters | Aftermarket or expired filters reduce protection and often invalidate the APF. |
| Low airflow / failing PAPR motors | If flow rate drops, the unit cannot achieve its TH1/TH2/TH3 rating – even with a new P3 filter. |
| Damaged hoses or airline leaks | Reduces air supply and increases contamination risk; often unnoticed until tested. |
| Missing components or non-OEM parts | Missing O-rings, gaskets or unofficial parts compromise protection and compliance. |
| Battery degradation (PAPR) | Underpowered airflow halfway through a shift is a major compliance and safety failure. |
| Contamination or poor storage | Dust, overspray and moisture degrade seals, shorten lifespan and increase failure rates. |
Over 40% of reusable RPE we inspect has at least one fault that makes it non-compliant.
Why Choose Velocity Safety for RPE Examination & Servicing?
Most providers simply check masks; we ensure your entire respiratory protection system performs as intended. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Fit2Fit-accredited technicians with over a decade of specialist RPE experience.
- Full system servicing for powered air and airline-fed equipment – including flow-rate testing of TH1, TH2 and TH3 units.
- On-site repairs and fault identification to keep downtime to a minimum.
- Unit ID assignment and next-due dates for complete audit readiness.
- Same-day digital reports for COSHH Reg 9 compliance and HSE inspections.
- Manufacturer-aligned servicing for Sundström, 3M, JSP, Centurion and other leading systems.
- Support for large fleets and multi-site operations with centralised RPE registers.
What Others Say About Us…
Whether it’s a single unit or a full fleet, our clients appreciate our fast, thorough RPE servicing and clear documentation.
“After many issues with the inspectors from our insurer I contacted Ross to quote. He saved us just over £3000 in the first year. He also does weekends for us to reduce downtime.”
Joe, Civils Company Midlands
“After spending £20k purchasing the wrong powered air units for our factory on our previous PPE supplier/H&S advisors recommendations, Ross came in and told us what we needed, why we needed it and what cost savings could be had over the life of the equipment. I just wish we found him sooner.”
David, Engineering Company North West
“Great Service, Great guy nothing is too much trouble.”
John, Groundworks Company North West
Official Moldex distributor – Trusted PPE supplied & serviced by Velocity Safety
Whatever your Respiratory Protective Equipment and Respiratory Protective Device Thorough Examinations and Servicing requirements, you can be sure your in honest, reliable and safe hands.
Contact Velocity Safety today 01254 933 486 or Contact Us
Related Respiratory Compliance Services
RPE servicing is one part of a complete respiratory protection programme. We also provide:
- Fit2Fit-accredited Face Fit Testing for tight-fitting respirators.
- RPE Inspections (Thorough Examination) to ensure equipment remains safe and functional between servicing intervals.
- Breathing Air Quality Testing (EN12021) for compressor-fed air systems.
- PSSR & Written Scheme Examinations for compressors and air receivers.
- LEV Testing & Examination for dust, fume and airborne contaminant control.
If you’re unsure whether you need an RPE Inspection or full Servicing, we can advise based on your equipment type, risk assessment and manufacturer intervals.
We also support teams with RPE demonstrations, respirator selection guidance and supply of approved equipment as part of our wider respiratory protection programme.
Frequently Asked Questions – RPE Examination & Servicing
When it comes to RPE, there’s no room for guesswork. These FAQs explain your legal responsibilities – and how we help meet them.
How often should RPE be serviced?
RPE servicing frequency depends on the equipment type, manufacturer guidance, usage level and working environment. Powered air respirators, airline-fed systems and breathing apparatus may need servicing every 6–12 months, while reusable masks may need component checks, cleaning support and repairs when faults are found during routine inspections.
RPE must also be examined and tested at suitable intervals under COSHH Regulation 9, with records kept for at least 5 years. If you are looking specifically for routine inspection intervals, see our RPE Inspections service.
Is RPE Examination different to Face Fit Testing?
Yes. Face Fit Testing checks whether a specific tight-fitting mask seals to the wearer’s face.
RPE Examination checks whether the equipment itself is safe, functional and compliant.
Both are required under COSHH.
What does the law require for RPE maintenance?
COSHH Regulation 9 requires employers to ensure RPE is:
- Maintained in efficient working order
- Kept in good repair
- Examined and tested at suitable intervals
- Supported with records kept for at least 5 years
What is included in an RPE examination and servicing?
We assess valve condition, seals, hoses, filters, airflow, battery health (PAPR), regulators, harness condition, and overall integrity.
If the equipment has powered or air-fed components, we also check flow rate, pressure stability and suitability for the claimed protection level (TH1/TH2/TH3).
What is the correct maintenance of RPE under COSHH?
Correct maintenance includes:
- Monthly examinations
- Pre-use checks by wearers
- Replacement of worn or damaged parts
- Filter changes using approved components
- Servicing powered or air-fed units at manufacturer intervals
- Keeping a centralised record of inspections and servicing
We manage all of this for you.
How often should powered air respirators (PAPR) be serviced?
Most manufacturers recommend servicing every 6–12 months, including airflow testing, battery checks and motor performance assessment.
Any drop in airflow means the unit will not achieve its TH rating.
Is RPE servicing the same as an RPE Inspection?
No. An RPE Inspection (Thorough Examination) is a documented visual and functional check carried out at set intervals.
RPE Servicing goes further – it includes disassembly, component checks, airflow/system testing and manufacturer-aligned servicing.
Both are required for full compliance, but they are separate activities.
Do I need an RPE maintenance checklist?
Yes.
COSHH expects employers to have a documented system showing monthly checks, service intervals, part replacements and next-due dates.
We provide a digital RPE register for every client.
Who is competent to carry out RPE servicing?
RPE examinations must be completed by a properly trained and competent person.
Our technicians are Fit2Fit accredited and trained by major manufacturers including 3M, Sundström, JSP and Centurion.
Do you inspect and service powered respirators?
Yes – including PAPR units, loose-fitting hoods, airline-fed respirators and full-face powered systems.
We also carry out flow-rate testing to verify the protection level (TH1/TH2/TH3).
What happens if a unit fails its examination?
We’ll identify the fault, advise whether it can be repaired, and provide costs if parts are needed.
If a unit is unsafe to use, we clearly mark it and update your compliance record.
Can I send units to your workshop?
Yes.
We offer both on-site servicing and a postal workshop service for PAPR units, full-face masks and regulators.
Do you provide service stickers or reports?
Yes. Each inspected item receives a service tag or sticker. We also issue a digital report with findings and next due dates.
Can you manage servicing across multiple departments or sites?
Absolutely.
We set up centralised RPE registers, assign unit IDs, and coordinate servicing across multiple teams, locations or production lines.
Is cleaning included before servicing?
Units must be sent clean and decontaminated.
Heavily soiled equipment may be subject to additional cleaning charges due to safety requirements.
Can you inspect and service RPE near me?
Yes – we inspect and service Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) for clients across the UK. In the North West, we support high-risk sites in places like Burnley, Blackburn, and the wider Lancashire area. Whether you use full-face masks, powered units or supplied air systems, we ensure your gear remains safe and fit for use.
Arrange RPE Servicing for Your Team
Book COSHH Reg 9–compliant examination and servicing for reusable RPE – including half masks, full-face respirators, powered air units and airline-fed systems. Our Fit2Fit-accredited technicians test, service and document every item, with same-day digital reports and clear next-due dates.
Whether you need a single unit checked or a full fleet managed across multiple sites, we’ll keep your respiratory protection programme safe, compliant and audit-ready.
01254 933 486
info@velocitysafety.co.uk
Velocity Safety
Unit 7 Whitebirk Enterprise Centre,
Lower Phillips Road
Blackburn,
Lancashire
BB1 5UD
