Fit Testing

CIH Services, Inc. offers qualitative and quantitative respirator fit testing at your facility or at our place. Qualitative respirator fit testing is typically conducted using the saccharin protocol. This fit testing is adequate for respirators with a protection factor up to ten (10). This method of fit testing is often used for N95 fit testing in the hospital setting. Quantitative respirator fit testing is conducted using the TSI Portacount. We have used the Portacount successfully since 1985. Although qualitative fit testing is slightly more time consuming and expensive, the outcome is superior to a quantitative fit test. In all cases, we ask that employees are medically qualified prior to fit testing, and that they do not smoke or eat for thirty minutes prior to the test. OSHA prohibits any facial hair that interferes with the facepiece seal.