Second Chance CPR utilizes the TSI Portacount Fit Testing system as we believe it provides the highest level of assurance that the user is wearing the best-fitted mask. Other fit testing methods, utilizing irritant smoke or oils, can provide a false sense of protection. Quantitative fit testing (QNFT) is a method for assessing the effectiveness of a respirator’s seal by numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator.  Instruments like the PortaCount quantify the leakage and determine a “fit factor”. This method is considered more accurate and reliable than Qualitative Fit Testing Method.

Key differences from Qualitative Fit Testing:

  • QNFTs utilize sensors and equipment to measure leakage, providing objective data rather than depending on subjective sensations such as taste or irritation.
  • Numerical Results: QNFTs yield a numerical value known as a “fit factor,” which indicates the level of leakage.
  • More Accurate: QNFTs are generally regarded as more accurate and reliable than QLFTs since they directly assess the respirator’s performance.
  • Suitable for All Respirators: QNFTs are applicable for any tight-fitting respirator, including half-masks, full facepieces, and SCBAs.
  • No Dependence on Senses: QNFTs do not depend on the wearer’s ability to detect leakage through taste, smell, or irritation, making them appropriate for individuals who may have sensitivities or limitations in these areas.

Who needs a respiratory fit test:

Any person required to wear a tight-fitting respirator in the following situations should be fit tested to ensure a proper comfort fit and effective respirator seal:

  • During their normal day-to-day duties, or
  • Emergency response activities.

Types of tight-fitting respirators can include:

  • (N95) filtering facepiece disposable respirators
  • full facepiece
  • half facepiece
  • powered air purifying
  • (SCBA) self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

People working in the following industries may need to be fit tested:

  • Healthcare, including nurses, doctors, long-term care homes, dentists, orthodontists, dental hygienists
  • first responders, including emergency medical services (EMS), firefighters and police officers
  • oil and gas
  • mining
  • chemical production, and
  • pharmaceutical and research laboratories.
  • Construction workers who are subjected to dust, fumes, and particulate matter (drywall dust, asbestos fibres, etc.)

Note: If you have a respirator, please bring it to your fit testing appointment.

What to expect during a respirator fit test:

Whether you’re completing a quantitative respirator fit test or a qualitative respirator fit test, you’ll be asked to complete the following seven exercises. Each activity takes about 30 seconds.

  1. Normal breathing
  2. Deep breathing: Be certain breaths are deep and regular
  3. Turn head side to side: Perform this action within your comfortable range of motion. Remember to inhale and exhale when the head is at each side and avoid bumping your shoulder.
  4. Nod head up and down: Complete this action within a comfortable range of motion. Inhale when the head is in the fully up position and exhale when the head is in the fully down position. Avoid bumping the respirators against your chest.
  5. Talking: Talk slowly and loudly to be understood for the duration of the exercise. Recite the alphabet or count to 100.
  6. Bend over: Bend at the waist and keep the head and back parallel to the floor. Repeat the movement at a comfortable pace and pause long enough to inhale twice at each extreme position.
  7. Normal breathing

Once the test is completed and the candidate achieves a minimum fit factor for mask being tested, they will be issued a FIT TESTING CERTIFICATE with Name, Date, and Mask Tested.