Quantitative Respirator
Fit Testing
WHAT IS FIT TESTING?
A quantitative fit test measures the adequacy of a respirator’s fit by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator. Rhino Safety uses the TSI Porta Count to perform its fit tests.The Porta Count works by measuring the concentration of microscopic dust particles in the ambient air and then measuring the concentration of those dust particles that leak into the respirator. The ratio of these two concentrations is called the fit factor. The filters stop essentially all the particles so anything that gets into the mask must have come through the face seal. A quantitative fit test is not affected by the person’s sense of smell, taste or sensitivity to irritant chemicals.
WHY WE FIT TEST
We are all different, our faces and heads are different shapes and sizes. Here is what Alberta Occupational Health and Safety says:
An employer must ensure that respiratory protective equipment that depends on an effective facial seal for its safe use is correctly fit tested and tested in accordance with (a) CSA Standard Z94.4-02, Selection, Use and Care of Respirators, or (b) a method approved by a Director of Occupational Hygiene.
OUR EQUIPMENT
Rhino Safety owns a TSI Portacount 8030 fit test machine. The machine is portable, and we can perform fit testing either at our site or yours. Our machine has the ability to test all major brands of full, half and positive pressure respirators.
