Using The PortaCount 8030 Or 8038: What Now?

If you're currently using a PortaCount 8030 or 8038, as face fit testing equipment, you may be wondering what to do next. These models, once the gold standard for quantitative face fit testing, have been discontinued, and their future is uncertain.

In this article, we’ll explain your choices: to retain your current face fit testing equipment, explore alternative options, or upgrade to the latest technology.

Option 1: Keeping The PortaCount 8030 Or 8038

The PortaCount 8030 and 8038 have long been reliable tools for ensuring the effectiveness of respirator masks. However, with their discontinuation, you may face important maintenance challenges. If your device breaks down, TSI, the manufacturer, may no longer be able to repair it, so the device may be rendered unusable. Continuing to rely on these models could lead to downtime and potentially compromise your ability to conduct accurate face fit tests. If you're not ready to part with your machine, it's essential to weigh the risks and consider having a backup plan.

Option 2: The Qualitative Face Fit Test Alternative

If your PortaCount becomes unusable, one option is qualitative face fit testing. This pass-or-fail method relies on the user’s sense of taste to determine if a mask provides an adequate seal. While this method is a viable option for disposable and reusable half-masks, it has significant limitations that should not be ignored. Qualitative face fit testing is time-consuming, subjective, and inappropriate for full-face masks. Additionally, qualitative face fit testing doesn’t provide the same level of accuracy as quantitative face fit testing, which could lead to less reliable results.

Option 3: Upgrading To The PortaCount 8040 Or 8048

For those looking to stay with the PortaCount brand, upgrading to the 8040 or 8048 models is a logical step.These new models feature similar hardware to the 8030 and 8038 but are supplied with updated software that introduces new features, such as animations, to assist with testing. A laptop or computer is required to operate the software, but data collection is limited to the connected device. While the transition may require some adjustments, the PortaCount 8040 or 8048 models provide continuity and improved functionality compared to their predecessors.

Option 4: Exploring The AccuFIT Respirator

A newer alternative is the AccuFIT respirator mask fit testing machine. Like the PortaCount 8040 or 8048, it offers precise quantitative face fit testing, ensuring that your respirator fits correctly and provides an adequate protection against different hazards. The AccuFIT system is compatible with all types of masks and offers higher accuracy than qualitative testing. It is also more time-efficient, making it an excellent choice for busy environments in which face fit testing needs to be conducted quickly but reliably. Further more, if you are familiar with the set up of the Portacount 8030 or 8038 devices, you will find using the AccuFIT system very easy indeed, even easier than the 8040 or 8048 which will require learning a completely new software package.

Book Your Quantitative Face Fit Testing Training

At Fire Safe International, we provide expert face fit testing training to ensure that, if you choose the quantitative testing option, your personnel is safe in potentially hazardous environments.

For more information, please get in touch today.