Respirator fit test

Along with proper training and continued use of a respirator, the other necessary step to reduce exposure is to ensure that respirators fit properly and provide the expected level of protection. 

If a respirator does not seal properly on a worker’s face, airborne hazards can leak underneath the facepiece seal and into worker's breathing zone. Fit testing evaluates the seal between a respirator and the face, identifying gaps or leaks that put workers at risk. Fit test results confirm if a respirator will provide the right level of on-the-job protection needed.

Respirator fit testing is a key component of any respiratory protection programme to help protect staff from airborne hazards. With the quantitative fit test method (QNFT), an instrument provides users with data that accurately measures a respirator’s fit. Persons required to wear respirators on-the-job should be fit tested by accredited fit testing specialists to ensure respirators are providing maximum protection. In the UK, fit testing with the PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester is fully HSE compliant for all FFP1/2/3 tight-fitting respirators.

Please visit TSI’s website for more info:

Any respirator, one fit tester

The PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester (Model 8048) works for any type or brand of respirator. The instrument features intelligent touchscreen solutions, providing assistance across your entire respiratory protection programme from training through to compliance. The PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester takes real time measurements during movement, under real-world conditions, to provide both staff and administrators with a greater understanding of how respirators fit.