Step 1: Database Setup
Organizing your data correctly ensures you have a reliable record of who was tested and whether their mask passed:
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Storage: Plug a USB flash drive into the unit to ensure all data saves automatically for later download [00:30].
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Adding People: From the main menu, go to Database > People. Select New to enter the test subject's name and ID number [01:03].
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Adding Respirators: In the Respirators menu, enter the manufacturer, model, and style (half or full face). Crucial: If you are testing an N95 mask, you must check the N95 box [01:50].
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Selecting Protocol: Choose the appropriate testing standard (e.g., OSHA) and define the exercises to be performed [02:11].
Step 2: The Daily Check
Before testing a person, you must verify the PortaCount is functioning properly:
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Tubing & Alcohol: Connect the blue and clear tubes to their matching inlets. Insert a freshly soaked alcohol cartridge and lock it into place [03:09].
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Particle Check: Run the initial check. If the count is under 30, you may need a particle generator to increase the room's particle concentration [03:42].
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Zero Filter: Attach the HEPA (zero) filter to the clear sample tube and run the second part of the check to ensure no leaks exist within the unit itself [04:11].
Step 3: Mask Preparation
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Adapter Kit: For 3M masks, use the adapter kit to thread the sampling port into the mask [05:28].
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Internal Tubing: Secure the internal suction cup or clip inside the mask to keep the sampling line stationary during the test [05:52].
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Filters: Attach P100 filters to the mask before beginning the test [06:10].
Step 4: Performing the Fit Test
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Assignment: Select the person, mask, and protocol from your database [07:04].
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Exercises: The software will guide the participant through a series of exercises, including normal breathing, deep breathing, head side-to-side, and head up-and-down [07:38]. Each exercise tests the seal under different conditions [08:30].
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Results: A fit factor is calculated for each exercise. A factor over 100 (for half-face) or 500 (for full-face) is typically required to pass [09:11].
