Looking For A PortaCount Alternative? Why Now Is The Time To Review Your Fit Testing Equipment

For many organisations, the TSI PortaCount 8030 and 8038 have been dependable quantitative face fit testing instruments for many years. The devices are familiar, widely understood and still in regular use across sectors where tight-fitting respirators form part of day-to-day respiratory protection.

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However, the long-term picture has recently changed. TSI lists both the PortaCount 8030 and 8038 as ‘discontinued products’, and the sector is now planning around end-of-service timescales for older units. For employers, trainers and fit test providers alike, this is not simply a purchasing issue. It is a continuity issue: can you keep testing, recording and supporting respirator users if an ageing unit becomes unreliable or harder to service?

That is why many teams are now looking for a PortaCount alternative before a breakdown forces the decision.

OHD AeroFit Has Entered The Conversation

One of the newer options being discussed is the OHD AeroFit. This device uses condensation nuclei counting technology and is positioned as a modern quantitative fit testing device for disposable and elastomeric respirators. It comes with a range of features such as automated daily verification, guided respirator selection, cordless operation and support for recognised fit testing protocols. 

The OHD AeroFit is one of several newer systems available to organisations reviewing older PortaCount equipment. As with any fit testing device, suitability will depend on factors such as respirator compatibility, reporting requirements, portability and operational workflows. 

Why AccuFIT Deserves Serious Consideration

At Fire Safe International, our focus is on helping customers choose equipment that works in real operating conditions, not just on a specification sheet. For organisations replacing older PortaCount units, the AccuFIT 9000 and AccuFIT 9000 PRO are among the options available when reviewing future fit testing requirements.

The AccuFIT 9000 is a quantitative respirator fit tester designed for tight-fitting full and half mask respirators, as well as most disposable respirators. It can operate as a standalone device or with a PC, with your test results stored for transfer and reporting. The AccuFIT 9000 PRO extends these capabilities further, including dual-mode technology for all tight-fitting mask types and filtering facepieces with lower filtration performance, such as FFP2 and some N95 types. 

This distinction is important. A replacement decision should consider the respirators you need to test, the number of users, the level of portability required, how records will be managed, and how quickly competent operators can become comfortable with the workflow.

Plan The Change Before You Need It

If you still use a PortaCount 8030 or 8038, it’s worth reviewing your equipment now rather than waiting until servicing or reliability becomes urgent. Older machines may still be usable, but relying on them indefinitely without a transition plan can create avoidable pressure when your testing schedules, compliance records and worker protection all need to continue.

It is also important to consider the range of respirators used within your organisation, including disposable masks, half masks and full-face respirators, as compatibility requirements can vary between systems. 

Find Out More

Fire Safe International is the exclusive UK distributor of the AccuFIT device by AccuTec IHS, and we can help you compare the AccuFIT 9000 and AccuFIT 9000 PRO against your current testing arrangements. 

If you are reviewing your next quantitative face fit testing machine, speak to one of our experts about the AccuFIT range and choose a PortaCount alternative that supports your testing programme for the long term.