The M41 PATS tests how well a military gas mask fits the soldier. Modern military masks are capable of a high degree of protection, but ONLY if they are fitted correctly and donned properly. A mask that is capable of protection factors of greater than 10,000 may only give a protection factor of 50 if it is incorrectly donned or is not the optimum size. The M41 provides a numerical measurement of the Fit Factor of the mask while it is being worn by a soldier.
The mask is tested in its normal operating configuration with the filter canister attached. The soldier dons their own assigned mask and performs a series of exercises that simulate typical activities. The M41 provides a Fit Factor for each individual exercise as well as an overall Fit Factor.
When used as part of your training program the M41 PATS ensures that your personnel get the best possible protection from their assigned mask.
The optional FitPlus software can be used to automate the Fit Test, save test results in a database, and print reports of test results.
Research has shown that there is no lower limit to the particle size that can be used for quantitative fit testing. There may be an upper limit near 2 microns. For more details, please refer to Application Note ITI-055 Penetration of Ambient Aerosols Through Respirator Face Seal Leaks.