Respirator Fit Testing - Why Use TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1

A respirator can't save your life if it doesn't fit properly. Having a reliable process to check the fit is logical and life-saving. In this guide, we'll look at why you should add the TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1 to your kit.

What is a Fit Test?

Before we dive into the features and benefits of the TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1, it's important to clearly outline what a fit test is. Some respirators require a tight seal to be formed by the face mask around the wearer's face and neck. If the fit isn't correct, the seal won't be tight. And if the seal isn't tight, hazardous, potentially life-threatening substances could be breathed in. As a result, employers have a duty to ensure that the face masks worn by their employees fit correctly.

Qualitative or Quantitative Fit Tests?

There are essentially two different types of fit tests, qualitative or quantitative. What are the key differences and where does the TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1 come in?

Qualitative Fit Tests:

• pass/fail test method that uses your sense of taste or smell, or your reaction to an irritant in order to detect leakage into the respirator facepiece
• whether the respirator passes or fails the test is based simply on you detecting leakage of the test substance into your facepiece [source]
• normally used for half-mask respirators or disposable masks

Quantitative Fit Tests

• uses a machine to measure the actual amount of leakage into the facepiece and does not rely upon your sense of taste, smell, or irritation in order to detect leakage
• can be used for any type of tight-fitting respirator [source]

Bearing in mind that the respirator fit test is about ensuring the safety of its wearing, it's clear that quantitative fit tests are the preferred option.

Which leads us on to the features of the TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1 and the benefits of having it as part of your safety equipment.

TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1 - Benefits and Features

Right out of the box (watch our unboxing video here) the unit's suitable for quantitative fit testing of SCBA, respirators and 95, 99, 100, FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 filtering facepiece respirators. It also eliminates the guesswork associated with tedious and error-prone qualitative fit test methods. The PortaCount Pro+ is compatible with new modified CNC protocols, as well as OSHA, CSA, HSE and ANSI standards.  It can be used in many applications and doesn't require an external computer to use it.  It can operate in standalone mode and you easily switch between N95 and N99 modes of operation in seconds.

Typical applications for the 8038-1 are:

• Quantitative respirator fit testing (QNFT)
• Disposable filtering-facepiece fit testing for Series 100/99/95/P1/P2/P3/ HEPA masks
• Half-mask fit testing
• Full-face fit testing
• Gas mask fit testing
• PAPR fit testing
• SCBA fit testing

And some of the key features include:

• Built-in N95 Companion™ technology
• Measures fit factors greater than 10,000
• Automates fit testing with FitPro+™ Fit Test Software
• Use with an external computer to generate reports and print fit test cards
• Colour touchscreen enables operation via the touch of a finger, pen or stylus

All told, the TSI 8038-1 is one of the fastest and easiest methods of HSE (UK) and OSHA (US)- compliant fit testing. Utilising as part of your Health and Safety protocols will not only save time, it helps ensure that everyone in the team that relies on a respirator is safe while working in hazardous environments.

All of the details of the TSI PortaCount Pro+ Model 8038-1 can be found here. And our team of highly trained advisors is ready to discuss your safety equipment requirements, get in touch with them here.