Do electric powered air purification respirators (PAPRs) need to undergo appropriate tests?

Yes, the electric air purification respirator (PAPR) needs to undergo testing, but the specific testing requirements depend on the type of PAPR. The testing is mainly divided into two categories: certification tests for the product itself, and fit tests for the users.

Product certification test: Ensuring the device is qualified

Before the PAPR is launched, it must pass a series of strict laboratory tests to prove that it complies with national and international standards. This is like issuing a "certificate of conformity" for the product.

Testing institutions and standards: In the United States, it is mainly certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in accordance with 42 CFR Part 84. In China, it needs to comply with GB series standards, such as "General Technical Conditions for Electrically Powered Ventilated Filtering Dust-Resistant Respirators" and others. Additionally, there are EN standards in Europe and ISO standards from the International Organization for Standardization.

Core testing items:

Filter efficiency: Test whether the filter can effectively intercept particulate matter (such as requiring a filtration efficiency of ≥ 99.97%) or specific chemical substances.

Air supply volume: Verify whether the fan can provide sufficient airflow. Generally, the airtight mask should be no less than 115 liters per minute, and the loose head mask should be no less than 170 liters per minute.

(Inward leakage): Quantitative testing to determine how much external pollutants enter the mask when the wearer performs various actions.

Other tests: Also include battery performance, noise level (usually requiring less than 80 decibels -), environmental adaptability, material flame retardancy, mechanical strength, and electrical safety, etc.

All PAPR products on the market must pass strict certification tests, which is the threshold for ensuring their basic performance and safety.