Fit2Fit-accredited for face fit testing, working with Betafit to support respiratory equipment, with inspection and servicing available for applicable JSP PowerCap and PowerCap Infinity equipment.
RPE Examination & Servicing for High-Risk Workplaces
Velocity Safety carries out documented examinations, servicing and testing of reusable RPE used in demanding environments – from manufacturing and engineering to spray booths and multi-site operations.
Our work follows the applicable manufacturer instructions and helps employers maintain RPE in efficient working order and good repair under COSHH Regulation 9.
What’s included:
- Full checks on half masks, full-face masks, PAPR/TH units and airline-fed systems
- Inspection and servicing support for applicable JSP PowerCap and PowerCap Infinity equipment
- 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
- Experienced technicians using appropriate manufacturer procedures, servicing tools and test equipment for the systems we are authorised and trained to support.
Maintain clear examination and servicing schedules with documented findings, equipment IDs and next-due dates.
Examples of Respiratory Protective Equipment We Examine and Service
- 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
Equipment supported includes systems from Sundström, 3M, Centurion, Scott Safety, Gentex and other leading manufacturers. We also inspect and service applicable JSP PowerCap and PowerCap Infinity systems, including their powered, respiratory and protective components.
Who We Support With RPE Examination & Servicing
Velocity Safety provides RPE examination and servicing to support employers managing reusable respirators, powered air systems and air-fed breathing apparatus. We help organisations maintain equipment records, identify faults and follow the applicable manufacturer and COSHH maintenance requirements.
Manufacturing & Engineering Sites
Using full-face respirators, powered air systems or airline-fed equipment? We examine and service equipment from leading manufacturers including Sundström, 3M and Centurion, with documented findings and next-due dates. We also support organisations operating JSP PowerCap and PowerCap Infinity equipment, including individual units and larger workplace fleets.
Spray Booths, Automotive & Isocyanate Users
Using powered respirators or air-fed breathing apparatus for coating and refinishing work? We test airflow where applicable, examine hoses and regulators, and service equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements. HSE requires suitable air-fed breathing apparatus for spraying isocyanate paints because filtering respirators are not suitable for that task.
Welding & Fabrication Workshops
Working with fumes, particulates or metal vapours? We service reusable masks and powered air systems used by welders and fabricators, checking components and performance against the applicable manufacturer requirements.
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 basic visual inspection. We assess components, condition and system performance using a structured process informed by the equipment manufacturer’s maintenance requirements and COSHH Regulation 9. Powered and airline-fed equipment receives the applicable airflow, pressure and functional checks.
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 where applicable. Servicing is completed with reference to the manufacturer’s instructions, with defects or results outside the required parameters clearly reported.
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.
JSP PowerCap & PowerCap Infinity Servicing
Velocity Safety provides documented inspections, manufacturer-authorised servicing and repairs for applicable JSP PowerCap Active, PowerCap Active IP and PowerCap Infinity systems.
JSP PowerCap systems combine powered respiratory protection with integrated head, eye or face protection. PowerCap Active and Active IP are TH1 powered filtering devices, while PowerCap Infinity is a TH3 PAPR designed for environments requiring a higher level of respiratory protection.
Depending on the model, equipment condition and work required, PowerCap servicing may include:
- Filters, pre-filters and filter covers
- Airflow and airflow-indicator performance
- Motor, fan and turbo components
- Battery packs, chargers and charging docks
- Visors, face seals and protective skirts
- Helmets, bump caps, harnesses and headtops
- Warning indicators and alarms where fitted
- General condition, cleanliness and component compatibility
- Replacement of applicable JSP components where required
JSP identifies regular inspection, cleaning and maintenance as important to continued PowerCap performance. The precise service scope will depend on the model, equipment condition, identified faults and availability of suitable replacement components.
If your organisation operates PowerCap or PowerCap Infinity units, send us the model, number of units, current service dates and details of any known faults for an appropriate quotation.
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: UK Assigned Protection Factor (APF) 10
- TH2: UK Assigned Protection Factor (APF) 20
- TH3: UK Assigned Protection Factor (APF) 40
During servicing, we test flow rate where applicable, check battery and motor performance and examine hoses, filters and other components against the manufacturer’s specified operating requirements. This is one of the most common failures we see when PAPRs are not serviced regularly.
If a powered unit cannot maintain the manufacturer’s required airflow, it should not be returned to use until the fault has been resolved.
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 help keep your examination, servicing and equipment records organised and clearly documented.
Respiratory Protective Equipment and Respiratory Protective Device Thorough Examinations and Servicing
Reusable RPE must be properly maintained, examined and tested at suitable intervals. The appropriate schedule depends on the equipment, manufacturer instructions, frequency of use, working environment and applicable legal requirements.
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 and, where required, service of reusable RPE. This may include seals, valves, hoses, filters, airflow and system performance. Work is completed at appropriate intervals with reference to manufacturer instructions and COSHH Regulation 9.
Common RPE Faults Found During Servicing
Some faults affecting reusable RPE are difficult for the wearer to identify during a basic pre-use check. A documented examination and service can uncover component, airflow and equipment-integrity issues before the RPE is returned to use.
| Common Fault | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Worn or damaged face seals | Damage, distortion or deterioration may prevent a tight-fitting facepiece from achieving an adequate seal. |
| Cracked or degraded inhalation and exhalation valves | Damaged, distorted or sticking valves can affect airflow and allow contaminants to enter the facepiece. |
| Incorrect, incompatible or expired filters | Filters that are unsuitable for the respirator, contaminant or task may prevent the equipment from providing its intended protection. |
| Low airflow or deteriorating PAPR performance | A powered unit that cannot maintain the manufacturer’s required airflow should not be returned to use until the fault has been resolved. |
| Damaged hoses or airline leaks | Leaks, kinks or damaged connections can reduce the air supply and affect the performance of powered or supplied-air equipment. |
| Missing or incompatible components | Missing seals, O-rings, gaskets or incompatible replacement parts can affect the equipment’s integrity and performance. |
| Battery degradation in powered RPE | A deteriorating battery may prevent the unit from maintaining the required airflow throughout the intended period of use. |
| Contamination or unsuitable storage | Dust, overspray, chemicals, moisture and poor storage conditions can damage components and reduce the equipment’s service life. |
Routine examination helps identify faults that may not be obvious during a wearer’s pre-use check.
Why Choose Velocity Safety for RPE Examination & Servicing?
Our work extends beyond a basic mask check, covering the components and system functions relevant to the equipment being examined.
- Manufacturer-trained technicians with extensive respiratory protection 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 to support COSHH records, internal reviews and HSE inspections.
- Manufacturer-aligned inspection and servicing support for Sundström, 3M, Centurion and other leading systems.
- Manufacturer-authorised servicing and repairs for applicable JSP PowerCap Active, PowerCap Active IP and PowerCap Infinity 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 RPE examination and servicing requirements, you can be confident you’re in experienced, reliable 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.
Employers may need both activities, but they serve different purposes. Face fit testing applies to tight-fitting facepieces, while examination and maintenance requirements depend on the type of reusable RPE and how it is used.
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:
- Examinations at suitable intervals, often at least monthly for regularly used reusable RPE
- 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 can provide scheduled examinations, servicing support and centralised equipment records based on your RPE types and manufacturer requirements.
How often should powered air respirators be serviced?
Servicing intervals should follow the instructions for the specific manufacturer and model, alongside equipment usage, working conditions and the findings of routine examinations.
Airflow, batteries, motors, filters, hoses, seals and warning systems should also be checked at the intervals specified within the employer’s RPE maintenance programme. A unit that cannot maintain its required airflow or passes outside the manufacturer’s operating parameters should not be returned to use until the fault has been resolved.
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.
Routine examinations are required at suitable intervals. Additional servicing is carried out when specified by the manufacturer, scheduled within the maintenance programme or required because a fault has been identified.
Do I need an RPE maintenance checklist?
Yes.
Employers should maintain records of examinations, tests, maintenance and repairs. The schedule should reflect manufacturer instructions, equipment type, usage and the applicable COSHH requirements.
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 have extensive respiratory protection experience and relevant manufacturer training. This includes the training and approval required to provide manufacturer-authorised servicing and repairs for applicable JSP PowerCap Active, PowerCap Active IP and PowerCap Infinity systems. Fit2Fit accreditation applies separately to our face fit testing capability.
Do you inspect and service powered respirators?
Yes – we examine and service applicable PAPR units, loose-fitting hoods, airline-fed respirators and full-face powered systems.
Checks can include airflow, filters, batteries, motors, hoses, seals, headtops and warning functions, depending on the manufacturer and model. Airflow testing confirms whether the unit meets the manufacturer’s required operating parameters; it does not independently alter or certify the equipment’s TH classification.
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. Equipment that passes the applicable examination or service receives an appropriate tag or sticker. We also issue a digital report identifying the equipment, work completed, findings, outcome and next-due date.
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.
Do you service JSP PowerCap and PowerCap Infinity respirators?
Yes. Velocity Safety provides documented inspections, manufacturer-authorised servicing and repairs for applicable JSP PowerCap Active, PowerCap Active IP and PowerCap Infinity equipment.
Send us the model, number of units and details of any known faults, and we’ll confirm the available service scope and provide a quotation.
What does JSP PowerCap servicing include?
The exact work depends on the PowerCap model, equipment condition and any faults identified. Applicable work may include checks or maintenance relating to filters, airflow, motors, batteries, chargers, visors, face seals, head protection, harnesses, warning indicators and replaceable components.
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 provide documented examinations and servicing to identify defects and confirm whether equipment can be returned to use.
Arrange RPE Servicing for Your Team
Arrange documented examination and servicing for reusable RPE, including half masks, full-face respirators, powered air units and airline-fed systems. Our manufacturer-trained technicians test, service and document equipment with clear findings and next-due dates.
Already using JSP PowerCap Active, PowerCap Active IP or PowerCap Infinity units? Send us the model, quantity, current service dates and details of any known faults for a servicing quotation.
Whether you need a single unit checked or a fleet managed across multiple sites, we’ll help maintain clear servicing records and identify equipment that requires repair or removal from use.
01254 933 486
info@velocitysafety.co.uk
Velocity Safety
Unit 7 Whitebirk Enterprise Centre,
Lower Phillips Road
Blackburn,
Lancashire
BB1 5UD
