What is the difference between a qualitative fit test and a quantitative fit test?
A. A qualitative fit test is a pass/fail test that relies on the subjects sensory response to detect the challenge agent. The four OSHA-accepted challenge agents are irritant smoke, saccharin, isoamyl acetate (banana oil) and bitrex. Qualitative tests are typically very economical. However, they will only verify a 10X fit factor. A quantitative fit test uses an instrument (one commonly used device is called a Portacount) to measure the challenge agent inside and outside the respirator. It will verify fit factors above 10X but it is more expensive to conduct this type of testing due to the instrumentation and components needed.
A qualitative fit test is a pass/fail test that relies on the subjects sensory response to detect the challenge agent. The four OSHA-accepted challenge agents are irritant smoke, saccharin, isoamyl acetate (banana oil) and bitrex. Qualitative tests are typically very economical. However, they will only verify a 10X fit factor. A quantitative fit test uses an instrument (one commonly used device is called a Portacount) to measure the challenge agent inside and outside the respirator. It will verify fit factors greater than 10X but it is more expensive to conduct this type of testing due to the instrumentation and components needed.
