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National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)

Conformity Verification and Standards Development Branch (CV&SDB)

The Standard Application Procedure

for the Approval of

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and Chemical, 

Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear 

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

Under 42 CFR Part 84

Revised: March 12, 2018
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Table of Contents

Introduction................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

Section 1 General Information for Powered Air-Purifying or CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators................................ 6

1.1 Getting Started........................................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.1.1 Who May Apply ................................................................................................................................................ 6

1.1.2 Approval............................................................................................................................................................ 6

1.1.3 Applicants Without a Three-character Manufacturer’s Code ......................................................................... 6

1.1.4 Applicants Without NIOSH Approval ............................................................................................................... 6

1.1.5 Where to Find the Standard Application Form................................................................................................ 7

1.1.6 Submitting the Application............................................................................................................................... 7

1.1.7 Documents to Submit with the Application..................................................................................................... 7

1.1.8 Submitting the Application and Associated Documents.................................................................................. 7

1.1.9 Submitting Test Samples (Hardware)............................................................................................................... 7

1.2 Types of Applications.................................................................................................................................................. 8

1.2.1 New Approval Application ................................................................................................................................ 8

1.2.2 Extension of Approval Application.................................................................................................................... 9

1.2.3 Quality Assurance Approval Application ....................................................................................................... 13

1.2.4 Resubmission Application .............................................................................................................................. 13

1.2.5 Amended Application ..................................................................................................................................... 13

1.2.6 Correlation Testing Only Application ............................................................................................................. 14

1.3 Information for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators ...................... 15

1.3.1 Approval Label Protections and Cautions and Limitations for PAPRs and CBRN PAPRs.............................. 15

Section 2 Specific Instructions for Preparing a Powered Air-Purifying or CBRN PAPR Application Package........................ 17

Section 3 Supplemental Information for Preparing an Application for PAPRs and CBRN PAPRs.......................................... 26

3.1 Quality Assurance Documentation........................................................................................................................... 26

3.2 Quality Assurance Manual........................................................................................................................................ 26

3.3 Product Quality Control Plan and Documentation .................................................................................................. 27

3.4 Fees............................................................................................................................................................................ 28

3.5 Powered Air-Purifying and CBRN PAPR Respirator Test Fees ................................................................................. 29

3.6 Annual (Fixed) Certification (Approval) Fees........................................................................................................... 31

3.7 Pay.Gov Instructions................................................................................................................................................. 33

3.8 Drawings for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator ....................... 35

3.8.1 Exploded-View Drawing and Major Subassembly Drawing for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR .......................... 35

3.8.2 Example of an Exploded-View Drawing of a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator........................................... 35
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3.8.3 Material Specifications on Drawings for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR.............................................................. 36

3.9 Component Vendors................................................................................................................................................. 36

3.10 Assembly Matrix ..................................................................................................................................................... 36

3.11 Approval Labels and Private Labels........................................................................................................................ 38

3.12 List of NIOSH Cautions and Limitations by Respirator Type.................................................................................. 38

3.13 Private Labeling Versus Private Packaging............................................................................................................ 38

3.14 User Instructions..................................................................................................................................................... 39

3.15 Packaging Art Work and Carton Design ................................................................................................................. 41

3.16 Summary of Related Documents............................................................................................................................ 42

3.17 File Naming Conventions........................................................................................................................................ 44

Section 4 Approvals and Denials............................................................................................................................................. 46

4.1 Approval Documentation ......................................................................................................................................... 46

4.2 Denial Documentation.............................................................................................................................................. 46

4.3 Denial Prior to Assignment of a Task Number......................................................................................................... 46

4.4 Denial of a Project Undergoing NIOSH Evaluation................................................................................................... 47

4.5 Respirator Certification (Approval) Program Decision Review Process.................................................................. 48

Section 5 Powered Air-Purifying and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators Test Selection Guide................................. 49

Section 6 Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Checklist ................................... 56

6.1 NIOSH Respirator Application Checklist.................................................................................................................. 56

6.2 Exploded-View Drawing Checklist for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR........................................................................... 58

6.3 All Major Subassemblies Checklist for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR .......................................................................... 59

6.4 Specific Components Checklist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a CBRN PAPR .................................. 60

6.5 Private Label Checlist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a CBRN PAPR ................................................. 61

6.6 Assembly Matrix Checklist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and a CBRN PAPR ....................................... 62

Section 7 - Document Examples for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator..... 63

7.1 a Example of a Product Quality Control Plan for a PAPR (non-CBRN) ...................................................................... 63

7.1 b Example of a Product Quality Control Plan for a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator................................... 64

7.2 Example of an Exploded-View Drawing for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator or CBRN PAPR .......................... 65

7.3 a Example of an Assembly Matrix for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (non-CBRN).......................................... 66

7.3 b Example of an Assembly Matrix for a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator.................................................... 67

7.4 a Example of an Approval Label for a Full Facepiece Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (non-CBRN)..................... 68

7.4 b Example of an Approval Label for a Full Facepiece CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator............................... 69

7.5 Example of an Approval Label for Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Filter........................................................... 71

7.6 Example of an Approval Label for Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Chemical Cartridge .................................... 72

7.7 Example of an Abbreviated Filter Label for Power Air-Purifying Respirators........................................................ 73

7.8 Example of an Abbreviated Cartridge Approval Label for a PAPR Chemical Cartridge ......................................... 74

7.9 a Example of a Label for Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Full Facepiece Canister (non-CBRN).......................... 75
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7.9 b Example of a Label for CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Fullfacepiece Canister...................................... 76

Section 8 - Label Format Guidance ............................................................................................................................................. 78

Appendix...................................................................................................................................................................................... 80

Letter to All Respirator Manufacturers....................................................................................................................................... 81

Definitions ................................................................................................................................................................................... 97

Acronyms................................................................................................................................................................................... 105
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Introduction

This is a revision to the NIOSH Standard Application Procedure for the Approval of Respirators dated 

August 2015. It is intended to add clarity to the approval process under Title 42, Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) Part 84 (also known as 42 CFR 84). It is recommended that applicants review the 

entire document before submitting a respirator for approval. 

This Standard Application Procedure (SAP) correlates with version 8 of the Standard Application Form.

NPPTL has developed individual instructions for each class of respirator. The information in this 

document pertain to the approval of Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) and Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (CBRN PAPRs). Please see the appropriate 

application for the type of respirator being submitted.

Schedule 14G

• Tight-Fitting Powered Air-Purifying Respirators with or without High-Efficiency Filters that 

meet the Canister Requirements. 

• Tight-fitting Powered Air-Purifying Respirators with Chemical, Biological, Radiological and 

Nuclear protection.

Schedule 21C

• Powered Air-Purifying Respirators with High-Efficiency Particulate Filters, Loose- Fitting or 

Tight-Fitting. 

Schedule 23C

• Powered Air-Purifying Respirators with Chemical Cartridges or Combination Chemical 

Cartridges with High-Efficiency Filters; Loose-Fitting or Tight-Fitting.

• Loose-Fitting Powered Air-Purifying Respirators with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and 

Nuclear Protection.

Compliance with all instructions is essential for efficient processing of an application. 

The information in Section 2 of this document provides specific step-by-step instructions to prepare an 

application for approval of a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator or a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator. The paragraphs are numbered to correspond with the sections of version 8 of the standard 

application form (SAF).

 

Additional guidance and information related to PAPRs and CBRN PAPRs is included in the sections that 

follow and should be used as a reference.
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Section 1 General Information for Powered Air-Purifying 

 Respirators and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

Instructions for Preparing an Application Package for a Powered Air-Purifying or

CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (14G, 21C, or 23C Approvals).

This guide applies strictly to Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) and CBRN

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (CBRN PAPRs). Please see the appropriate standard

application procedure for submitting an application for a different class of respirator.

1.1 Getting Started

1.1.1 Who May Apply

An individual, partnership, company, corporation, association, or other organization that designs,

manufactures, assembles, or controls the assembly of a respirator may apply to NIOSH to become an

approval holder (42 CFR Section 84.2). An organization may appoint an authorized representative to

complete and submit the Standard Application Form (SAF) to NIOSH.

1.1.2 Approval

Approval is issued once NIOSH determines the product conforms to the requirements of 42 CFR Section

84. 

1.1.3 Applicants Without a Three-character Manufacturer’s Code 

A prospective approval holder that has not applied for a NIOSH-Assigned three-character 

manufacturer’s code will need to complete the Prospective Approval Holder Form and return it to the 

NIOSH NPPTL Records Room. To obtain the form, contact the NIOSH NPPTL Records Room at 

recordsroom@cdc.gov or (412) 386-4000. 

1.1.4 Applicants Without NIOSH Approval 

Prospective approval holders, without a NIOSH-Approved respirator, who have received a threecharacter manufacturer’s code, may submit an initial application for a single new respirator along with a 

signed and approved company Quality Assurance Manual. 

For prospective approval holders, once the application is accepted, reviewed, the respirator is tested,

and a final review is successfully performed, a site qualification will be scheduled and conducted prior to

the issuance of any approval. Please see the fee schedules for the cost of the site qualification. Other

applications may be submitted with the initial application. However, subsequent applications will not be

reviewed until the site qualification is completed and the initial application is approved.
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The site qualification is only performed for new applicants (those without a NIOSH approval).

Approval holders with joint NIOSH and Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) approval have 

routine site audits conducted annually. NIOSH performs routine site audits for all approval holders 

every two years. 

1.1.5 Where to Find the Standard Application Form

The standard application form, version 7 can be downloaded from the NIOSH NPPTL website. SAF 

versions 8 and 9 may be requested from the NPPTL Records Room once the manufacturer’s code is 

issued.

1.1.6 Submitting the Application

Applications should be submitted on CD-R or DVD-R electronic media. Neither rewritable CDs nor

thumb drives will be accepted. Due to computer security policies, NIOSH cannot accept thumb drives. 

Only one application per CD-R or DVD-R will be accepted. CD-Rs and DVD-Rs will be destroyed once the 

project is closed, unless a prepaid shipping label is sent with the media.

Compressed or “zip” files are recommended for applications submitted via email. Applicants that 

choose to email the attachments to NIOSH at recordsroom@cdc.gov risk having the information 

stripped by mail routers. 

1.1.7 Documents to Submit with the Application

Checklists specific to the type of application being completed are included in Section 6. Fee schedules 

are included in Section 3. Tests required for the specific respirator type are included in Section 5. 

Documents must be named in accordance with the prescribed naming convention, using an acceptable 

software package.

1.1.8 Submitting the Application and Associated Documents

The CD-R or DVD-R with the completed application form and associated documents, including the 

application fee check or pay.gov receipt, must be sent to:

NIOSH NPPTL

CV&SDB, Records Room

626 Cochrans Mill Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15236

1.1.9 Submitting Test Samples (Hardware) 

NIOSH NPPTL

CV&SDB, Evaluation and Testing

626 Cochrans Mill Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15236
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All boxes containing test samples (hardware) must be marked with the AAR# and include a packing 

slip.

If test samples (hardware) submitted for a series of applications must be identified for each project 

which it is to be used. For example, a facepiece that is to be used on three projects must have all three 

Applicant-Assigned Reference Numbers (AAR#s) on the packaging. If there are multiple containers, each 

container must be labeled with all the appropriate information. All sample components must be 

identified and labeled with their corresponding part numbers as listed on the assembly matrix.

If hardware is being sent to NIOSH for the testing of multiple projects, please include this information in 

the first application where testing will be performed and label the test samples (hardware) package with 

each AAR#. 

1.2 Types of Applications

The types of applications include: New Approval Application, Extension of Approval Application, Quality 

Assurance Approval Application, Resubmission of New Approval Application, Resubmission of Extension 

of Approval Application, Amended Application, and Correlation Testing Only Application. 

If there is any doubt about the appropriate type of application to submit, call the NIOSH NPPTL 

Conformity Verification and Standards Development Branch (CV&SDB) at (412) 386-4000.

Several screens of the Standard Application Form for New Approval Applications and Extension of 

Approval Applications identify the data fields that will be entered directly into the NIOSH Certified 

Equipment List (CEL). The product description should be short and succinct for an accurate reporting of 

the respirator in the CEL. 

1.2.1 New Approval Application

• Used for new design, substantially different design, or different type or level of protection 

requested for an existing NIOSH-Approved respirator. 

• NIOSH assigns a new testing and certification (TC) number for each new respirator system design 

that is approved. 

• An application may be submitted for only one basic new respirator design per application. 

• Applications containing more than one design will be denied. 

o For example, if an applicant submits a new PAPR with two new facepieces, a half-mask 

and full facepiece that use the same new filter, NIOSH requires two separate applications 

resulting in two new approvals because each facepiece represents a separate design and 

level of protection.

• New Approval applications must contain the following items or reference these items as described 

in detail in Sections 2 and 3 of this SAP. 

• NIOSH Standard Application Form. 

• Pretest Data. 

• Simplified Drawings. 

• Assembly Matrix. 

• Draft Approval Label(s). 
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• Quality Assurance Manual (Manual to be submitted separately as QA application after 

first approval). 

• Product Quality Control Plan. 

• a. Classification of Defects Document. 

• b. Sampling Plan. 

• Application Fee, $200. 

• User Instructions. 

• Test Samples (Hardware). 

The following must be addressed in the “Reason for Application”

• If the respirator contains or has been treated with an antimicrobial or antiviral treatment, include 

supporting documentation indicating any EPA-identified human toxicity levels, or specific data and 

third-party certification that the treatment does not pose a hazard to the respirator user. Also 

include data supporting any claims being made about the treatment. See the September 24, 1981

letter to All Respirator Manufacturers. 

1.2.2 Extension of Approval Application

Submitted when: 

• A critical or major characteristic affecting performance is altered on a previously approved 

respirator. 

• A critical or major characteristic affecting design (including Quality Assurance provisions) is 

altered on a previously approved respirator. 

• A new accessory is added to a previously approved respirator. 

• A change is made to an approval label, assembly matrix, User Instructions, or drawings. 

• All TC numbers affected must be listed in the “Reason for Application.” 

• All the TC numbers on a given assembly matrix apply to the extension, the assembly matrix may 

be referenced in lieu of listing the individual TC numbers. 

• A product is made obsolete. 

• The approval holder wants to add multiple accessories to one previously approved respirator. 

• All TC numbers affected must be listed in the “Reason for Application.”

• All of the TC numbers on a given assembly matrix apply to the extension, the assembly matrix 

may be referenced in lieu of listing the individual TC numbers.

• The approval holder wants to add multiple accessories to one previously approved PAPR.

• Requesting a private label approval of a previously approved respirator.
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 Accessories Previously Approved PAPR

• An approval holder wants to add an accessory to multiple previously approved respirators. 

 Accessory Previously Approved PAPRs

Changes to minor characteristics not affecting performance or design which are not documented in the 

NIOSH approval records do not have to be submitted to NIOSH. A minor characteristic is an attribute, 

such as the size of the belt loops on the blower or component or specific screw or nut size, which is 

integral to the design but not a major contributor to the performance of the respirator. Approval 

holders are responsible for keeping all changes to minor characteristics on file and available for review 

at the request of NIOSH.

This includes any minor changes to any document that is part of the approval record. These changes 

should be submitted for an extension of approval at your earliest convenience. 

The manufacturer has 

requests the addition of 

multiple accessories to a 

previously approved 

PAPR described in 

TC-23C-xxxx.

Communication Link

Multi-unit Charger

Filter Spark Cover

A manufacturer 

requests the addition 

of an accessory to 

multiple previouslyapproved PAPRs.

TC-xxa-1234

TC-xxa-2345

TC-xxa-1357
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Any changes to documents previously approved by NIOSH must be submitted to NIOSH. This includes 

minor changes to any document that is part of the approval record. These changes should be submitted 

as an Extension of Approval. Note that documents that are not up to date in their NIOSH record could 

result in a non-conformance during a site audit.

If the type or level of protection changes, a New Approval application must be submitted. For example, 

a PAPR with a particulate filter may be submitted and approved. The subsequent submission of the 

same PAPR with a chemical cartridge would be considered to be a new ‘Type,’ requiring a New Approval

Applications and a new TC number being issued. 

 

NIOSH will not assign new approval (TC) numbers for extensions of approval. New approvals can only be 

granted under an application for New Approval. 

In addition, a New Approval Application is required and a different TC number will be issued for 

additions of a new respirator arrangement to a respirator family, model, or series such as a new 

facepiece on an existing PAPR model. 

Extension of Approval applications must contain the following items or reference these items as 

described in detail in Sections 2 and 3 of this SAP. 

• NIOSH Standard Application Form. 

• Pretest data. 

• Simplified Drawings. 

• Assembly Matrix. 

• Draft Approval Label(s). 

• Product Quality Control Plan. 

 a. Classification of Defects Document. 

 b. Sampling Plan. 

• Application Fee, $200. 

• User Instructions. 

• Test Samples (Hardware). 

In the “Reason for Application”: Describe exactly and completely the change(s) or addition(s) to the 

approved respirator(s) and how the change(s) will affect the previously approved respirator(s). Provide

a succinct description of the previously approved respirator(s). For example, "An Extension of Approval 

to allow our ‘xyz’ alternate filter media to be used as an alternative on our Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator, models 123, 456, and 789. No other respirators are affected. This request is for use of an 

alternate filter media only." The Extension of Approval Application must clearly indicate:

1. The affected respirator(s) by name, TC number, and part number. If multiple approvals are 

affected, the assembly matrix or matrices that contain these approvals may be listed in lieu of 

the TC numbers.

2. Complete details of the change(s) or addition(s). 
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3. Related documentation that has changed since the last approval (assembly matrix, inspection 

procedures, simplified drawings, draft approval label, product quality control plan, User 

Instruction).

Example of a Well-Written Reason for Extension of Approval Application: 

Provides the model number, TC number, type of respirator, and what is being requested in a 

very descriptive manner. In this example, the request to allow an alternate filter media and 

the details are provided. 

This Extension of Approval Application is for our model XXX PAPR with HE filter, [TC-21C-9999] to 

allow use of an alternate filter material manufactured by ABC, part number 12345, to be used as 

an alternate to the filter material we currently use which is manufactured by DEF, part number 

67890. 

Specifies the change(s)

This request is for use of an alternate filter media only. No other components or processes are 

affected. Both filter media are mechanical and made of glass fiber filter paper and both pass the 

testing required to meet the criteria for HE protection. 

States how the change(s) affect(s) the product

The current filter design with the DEF filter requires additional processing as part of the assembly 

procedure. The new filter material from ABC requires less processing and results in less scrapped 

filters.

Any time the approval holder makes a change to a critical or major characteristic, as defined in 42 CFR 

Part 84, affecting performance and/or design (including Quality Assurance provisions), the change must 

be submitted to NIOSH for approval. NIOSH will not assign new approval (TC) numbers for Extension of 

Approval Applications. New TC numbers can only be granted under a New Approval Application.

When adding an accessory to a previously approved assembly, the applicant must include the accessory 

in the exploded-view drawing, the assembly matrix, and the major subassembly drawings. If accessories 

are listed on the approval labels, the labels must be updated.

Extension of Approval Applications to add alternate components to respirators previously approved by 

NIOSH apply to respirators that will be shipped from the manufacturer’s plant in the various 

configurations. These Extension of Approval Applications are not meant to apply to configuration 

changes that will be done in the field either by the end user or by manufacturer representatives. If the 

alternate components are to be field-replaceable, the approval holder must submit an Extension of 

Approval Application for an “upgrade (retrofit) kit.” The applicant must submit one application for each

upgrade (or retrofit) kit that is being issued. The “upgrade (retrofit) kit” can be in the form of a parts list 

or a drawing, and it must be listed on the assembly matrix with its own controlled document number 

and revision level. If the upgrade (retrofit) kit is submitted as a picture drawing, the drawing must 

contain a parts list. The manufacturer’s User Instructions to the field personnel or technician conducting 

the upgrade (retrofit) must also be submitted as a controlled document and listed on the matrix. The 
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first time these items are listed on the matrix they will have a matrix code of “N” for new. Subsequent 

submittals will be designated with “R” for revision or redesign.

When changes are made that affect the User Instructions, highlight or clearly note the changes in the 

document. 

1.2.3 Quality Assurance Approval Application

• Current NIOSH approval holders may used this type of application to submit new or updated 

Quality Assurance (QA) Manuals. This type of application is limited to current approval holders.

• No other actions will be accepted under this type of application. 

• QA Manual changes must include a revision history sheet showing the date and reason for 

revision. 

Note: NIOSH will only accept Quality Assurance Applications that request updates to the QA Manual. 

No other requested actions will be accepted under a Quality Assurance Application. QA Applications will 

not be accepted until the requestor has at least one NIOSH-Approved product.

In the “Reason for Application” state the details of the changes to the QA Manual. Also, indicate the 

respirator(s) and manufacturing facility(ies) affected. 

Quality Assurance Application submissions must not affect the performance or design of the 

respirator(s) and must not result in a different type or level of protection. If the change(s) impact(s) any 

of these aspects of the covered respirator(s), then applicants must submit an Extension of Approval 

application to address this (these) change(s). 

1.2.4 Resubmission Application

• Resubmissions are only accepted when allowed by NIOSH. 

• Used for hardware or documentation previously denied by NIOSH. 

If an application is for hardware or documentation that has been previously submitted to NIOSH and 

denied, select request type ‘Resubmittal of New’ or ‘Resubmittal of Extension’ as appropriate. The 

“Reason for Application” must include the change(s) made to address the respirator or documentation 

deficiencies, an explanation how the respirator or documentation now meets NIOSH requirements, and 

the task number (TN) of the previously denied application. Failure to provide this information will result 

in the application being denied again.

1.2.5 Amended Application 

• Amended Applications are only accepted when requested by NIOSH. 

• Used for open applications with an identified inaccuracy. 

• Only the portion requested by NIOSH should be submitted. 

• The AAR# and TN will remain the same. 
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1.2.6 Correlation Testing Only Application

Choose this type of application if the respirator is being submitted to be correlated with NIOSH Standard 

Testing Procedures (STPs). NIOSH will only perform correlation testing using one of the NIOSH Standard 

Test Procedures. The results of this testing cannot be used as pre-submission test data when submitting 

the respirator for NIOSH approval. An approval is not issued with a Correlation Testing Only Application.

No approval will be issued with a Correlation Testing Only Application.

Independent or internal testing is still required prior to submittal of the application. Explain what 

testing is required, by STP number. NIOSH will only test the number of samples specified in the STP or 

42 CFR Part 84. Specify the number of trials in the “Reason for Application” section.
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1.3 Information for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN Powered 

 Air-Purifying Respirators

42 CFR Part 84 requirements for particulate filters allow for a limited number of multiple approvals of 

one filter. 

The Part 84 requirements for particulate filters allow for the possibility of a limited number of multiple 

approvals of one filter. That is, one filter can be approved as a P100 as well as for a PAPR high-efficiency

(HE) filtration level. However, the protections listed on the approval label for the filter may identify only 

the series and efficiency levels at which the filter is approved. The available multiple series efficiency 

levels are: 

 HE/P100 

No other combinations are permitted with PAPRs. The same air-purifying filter can be used on a 

respirator as either a single filter or on a PAPR in a multiple or single filter configuration. If an applicant 

wants to show different series ratings based upon different configurations, different part numbers must 

be used for each configuration. 

If a filter is identified using a single part number, the least protective class approved in either 

configuration will appear on the label. 

If the approval holder wants to show different classifications based upon different configurations, 

different part numbers must be used for each configuration. 

1.3.1 Approval Label Protections and Cautions and Limitations for PAPRs and CBRN 

 PAPRs

PROTECTIONS

HE - High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter for Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators

CBRN - Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear

AG - Acid Gas (gas mask only) AM - Ammonia CD - Chlorine Dioxide

CL - Chlorine CN - Chloroacetophenone CO - Carbon Monoxide

CS - Chlorobenzylidene Malononitril EO - Ethylene Oxide

ESC - Escape FM - Formaldehyde HC - Hydrogen Chloride

HF - Hydrogen Fluoride HN - Hydrogen Cyanide HS - Hydrogen Sulfide

MA - Methylamine MV - Mercury Vapor ND - Nitrogen Dioxide

OV - Organic Vapor PH - Phosphine SD - Sulfur Dioxide

TDI - Toluene-2, 4-diisocyanate VC - Vinyl Chloride 

CBRN PAPR CAP 1, 2, 3 etc. - Capacity N Minutes 

[Note: HS (esc) - Hydrogen Sulfide (escape-only) has been replaced with HS and ESC for new approvals 

OSHA 1910.134(d)(3)(3)(iii)(B)(2).] 

CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 
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A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

B Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

C Do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tightfitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets.

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts that may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

K The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations require gas-proof goggles to be 

worn with this respirator when used against formaldehyde.

L Follow the manufacturer's User Instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

P NIOSH does not evaluate respirators for use as surgical masks.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning.

AA This respirator is to be used for escape-only and will protect against the inhalation of certain 

respiratory hazards.

BB Not for use for entry into atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

CC For entry, do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

LL This respirator contains filter or cartridge components that are not approved for all protections 

in all configurations. Check the specific row on the NIOSH approval label to ensure proper use.

CBRN-SPECIFIC CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS

R Some CBRN agents may not present immediate effects from exposure, but can result in delayed 

impairment, illness, or death.

Y The respirator providesrespiratory protection against inhalation of radiological and nuclear

dust particles. Procedures for monitoring radiation exposure and full radiation protection

must be followed. 

Z If during use, an unexpected hazard is encountered such as a secondary CBRN device, pockets

of entrapped hazard or any unforeseen hazard, immediately leave the area for clean air

QQ Use in conjunction with personal protective ensemblesthat provide appropriate levels of

protection against dermal hazard. Failure to do so may result in personal injury even when the

respirator is properly fitted, used, and maintained.

UU The respirator should not be used beyond eight (8) hours after initial exposure to chemical

warfare agents to avoid possibility of agent permeation. If liquid exposure is encountered, the

respirator should not be used for more than two (2) hours.

VV PAPRS with TC-23C approvals may NOT be used for escape from IDLH atmospheres. 
3/20/2018 17 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 2 Specific Instructions for Preparing a Powered Air- 

 Purifying or CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator 

 Application Package 

The paragraphs in this section are numbered to correspond to the different sections on 

version 8 of the Standard Application Form (SAF). 

1 Project Reference Numbers (Section C.1)

Enter the three character NIOSH-Assigned manufacturer’s code.

Check box if the applicant currently has a NIOSH-Approved product. 

Assign a unique reference number to this application. 

This reference number must start with the three character NIOSH-Assigned manufacturer’s code.

There is no character limit on this reference number.

This number must appear on each hardware sample package and the payment. 

Never reuse the Applicant-Assigned Reference Number (AAR#) except on Amended Applications 

requested by NIOSH.

NIOSH assigns a unique Task Number (TN) to each project. This number is emailed to the applicant once 

the application is received along with accompanying documents, check or payment confirmation, and 

test samples (hardware). All inquiries must refer to either the NIOSH-Assigned TN or the AAR#.

2 Type of Application (Section C.2)

Select from: New Approval Application, Resubmission of a New Application, Extension of Approval 

Application, Resubmission of Extension of Approval Application, Quality Assurance Application, 

Correlation Testing Only Application Amended Applications. 

New Approval Application

• Used for new design, substantially modified design, or different type or level of 

protection requested for an existing NIOSH-Approved respirator.

Resubmission of New Approval Application

• Resubmission applications are only accepted when allowed by NIOSH. 

• Used for previously denied applications. 

Extension of Approval Application

• A change is made to any document that was evaluated by NIOSH as part of an approval.

• A critical or major characteristic affecting performance or design (including Quality 

Assurance provisions) is altered on a previously approved respirator.

• One new accessory is added to a previously approved respirator.

• A change is made to an approval label, assembly matrix, User Instructions, or drawings.

• A private label request is made.
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• A product is made obsolete.

Resubmission of Extension of Approval Application

• Resubmission will only be accepted when allowed by NIOSH. 

• Used for previously denied applications. 

Quality Assurance Approval Application

• Choose this application for a new or updated QA Manual only.

• No other actions will be accepted under this type of application.

Correlation Testing Only Application

• Choose this type of application if the respirator is being submitted to be correlated with 

NIOSH Standard Test Procedures (STPs). 

• The results of this testing cannot be used as pre-submission test data when submitting 

the respirator for NIOSH approval.

• Independent or internal testing is still required prior to submittal of the application.

• Explain what testing is required and indicate how many trials in the “Reason for 

Application.”

• No approval will be issued with a Correlation Testing Only Application.

Amended Application

• Amended submissions are only accepted when requested by NIOSH. 

• Used for open applications with an inaccuracy in the application. 

• Only the portion requested by NIOSH should be submitted. 

• The AAR# and TN will remain the same.

3 and 5 Prospective Approval Holder (Sections C.3 and C.5)

Enter the name of the prospective approval holder. 

Status of Facility Manufacturer/Approval Holder Name (if different than above).

Check if the organization has submitted a request for approval for any respirator produced at this 

manufacturing plant in the last three years. 

Applicant – A person identified by the approval holder as completing and submitting the application.

Primary Contact – Person who will receive the approval or denial letter and all correspondence 

concerning the application.

Only those persons identified to NIOSH by the manufacturer/approval holder as official company 

contacts should be listed on the application. Multiple contacts can be identified as required by the 

manufacturer/approval holder. 
3/20/2018 19 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Enter Official Title.

Enter the first and last name, middle initial, and suffix for the applicant.

Enter the name of the prospective approval holder, if different from above.

Enter the manufacturing plant address.

Enter the manufacturing plant phone number.

Click “add contact” to add information for another person who can answer questions related to this 

application.

6 Date of Application (Section C.6)

Choose the date from the dropdown calendar. The NIOSH date of application is when the application is 

assigned a TN by NIOSH.

7 Type of Product (Section C.7)

Select Air-Purifying Respirator since this application applies only to Powered Air-Purifying Respirators.

8 Specific Questions Pertaining to Submission (Section C.8)

Is this a resubmittal of a previous application?

If Yes, enter the previous TN.

Is this an amended application?

Yes or No.

 

Is this submission application a result of field problem or site audit?

If Yes, enter the relevant TN(s).

Is the respirator intended for use in mines? 

Not applicable. 

Is this application dependent upon the approval of an application in process? 

If Yes, specify the applicable AAR# or TN.

If the same PAPR unit is being added as a private label, the second application for the private label 

cannot be approved until the first application is approved. 

If there are two or more applications that use the same assembly matrix, check the “yes” box and identify 

all subsequent applications in the Approval History. The second and subsequent applications using the 

same assembly matrix cannot be processed until the first application is approved. Additionally if a drawing 

is currently under review at NIOSH and a separate matrix is submitted, the current application should indicate that 

the project is dependent on the prior project and applicants should list the applicable TN.
3/20/2018 20 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

9 Reason for Application (Section C.9)

Provide a complete, concise, descriptive reason for the application. Do not provide information relating 

to respirator use or future respirator development. This is the information that will appear in the 

Certified Equipment List (CEL). 

The following must be addressed in the “Reason for Application”:

• If the respirator contains or has been treated with an antimicrobial or antiviral treatment, 

include supporting documentation indicating any EPA identified human toxicity levels, or 

specific data and third party certification that the treatment does not pose a hazard to the 

respirator user. Also include data supporting any claims being made about the treatment. The 

documents should be included as part of the application. 

• See letter to All Respirator Manufacturers dated September 24, 1981.

• If making respirators obsolete, include the TC numbers and model numbers.

List the TC numbers of all approvals affected by the application. If all of the TC numbers on the assembly 

matrix apply to the extension, the assembly matrix may be referenced instead of the individual TC 

numbers. 

If an Extension of Approval Application is the result of a field problem, site audit, or product audit, state 

that fact and list any associated task numbers (TN) here. Also list the Corrective Action Request (CAR) 

number associated with the application.

Please do not list “approval” as the “Reason for Application.”

Quality Assurance approval applications must state the details of the change(s) to the Quality Assurance

Manual and the respirator(s) and manufacturing facility(ies) affected. Quality Assurance Applications

must not affect performance or design and must not result in a different type or level of protection.

Correlation Testing Only Applications must state which NIOSH Standard Testing Procedures is to be used 

and indicate how many trials are requested. Special correlation tests that are not consistent with a 

NIOSH Standard Testing Procedures will not be conducted unless previously agreed upon by NIOSH. An 

approval will not be issued with a Correlation Testing Only Application.

Resubmittals must state the modification(s) that was (were) made to address the rejection/denial, and 

demonstrate that the respirator or documentation now meets all requirements.

10 Approval History (Section C.10)

Provide additional information on Approval History and any other information pertaining to this 

application. Do not list additional requests in the Approval History. 

If the application is one of a series being submitted, clearly list the AAR#s of all applications in the series.
3/20/2018 21 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Include a suggested processing order. Include an explanation of how the applications build upon each 

other. When using a common assembly matrix for the entire series of applications, place the assembly 

matrix in the last application of the series and reference the application in which it is located in all 

applications in the series. Applications in a series will not be approved until the entire series is 

complete. 

List the application TN where the respirator was last tested by NIOSH.

Example of a Well-Written Approval History for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator:

The new filter media is documented on revised specification sheet ZM-FL-A02 Rev A.

The change is documented in the cartridge’s bill of materials (Item 2) on page 3 of drawing 203-

01 Revision N.

This modification does not affect facepiece fit, but could affect the unit airflow. Happy Breathing 

Company has tested the PAPR being submitted as an extension of approval and found it still 

meets the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84 for breathing resistance, filter efficiency, and airflow. 

Happy Breathing Company has not changed any of the design construction of the cartridges since 

they were granted NIOSH approval under TN-xxxxx. Happy Breathing Company is relying on the 

submitted data and sample hardware accompanying this submission, AAR#ph24, to obtain this 

approval.

This change will be applicable to the XXX PAPR and private labels YYY & ZZZ. 

 

11 Description of Respirator (Section C.11)

Information for New Approval Applications and Extension of Approval Applications is entered in the SAF

by selecting options from dropdown boxes. The respirator description fields vary based on the type of 

respirator selected. Both New Approval Applications and Extension of Approval applications require a 

detailed narrative description.

Is this a joint SEI (CBRN NFPA) submission?

Yes or No.

Not Applicable to PAPRs. 

Is this an SEI retrofit respirator?

Yes or No.

Is this a CBRN Application?

Yes or No.

Is testing required?

Yes or No.

Return sample hardware? 
3/20/2018 22 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Yes or No.

Note: If No NIOSH will dispose of the equipment.

Source of submitted samples – Choose from dropdown options: 

Prototype, Regular Production Unit, Correlation Test Sample. 

Note: If No testing is required, please provide the reason.

Facepiece type – Choose from the dropdown options: 

Filtering Facepiece, Full Facepiece, Half-Mask, Quarter-Mask, Mouthpiece, Hood, or Helmet. 

Fit – Choose from the dropdown options:

Tight-fit, Loose-fit, Both Tight- and Loose-fit, or Mouthbit. 

Is this respirator fit checkable? 

Yes or No. 

If the respirator contains electrical components, have the components been approved by MSHA for 

intrinsic safety? 

Yes, No, or Not Applicable. 

Note: If this respirator is to be used for underground mine use and has electrical components, 

MSHA intrinsic safety approval must be received prior to submitting to NIOSH.

Does the respirator have an inhalation valve?

Yes or No. 

Does the respirator have an exhalation valve?

Yes or No. 

Type of AP Respirator – Choose from the dropdown options:

Particulate Filtering, Gas/Vapor Removing, Combination Gas/Vapor Removing and Particulate. 

Mask Power – Choose from dropdown options:

Unpowered, Powered, Both Unpowered and Powered use. 

How many filters? 

Are the filters replaceable?

Yes or No.

Filter Location (particulate filtering only) – Choose from dropdown options:

Facepiece-Mounted, Chest-Mounted, Back-Mounted, Belt-Mounted, Hood-Mounted, Helmet-Mounted. 
3/20/2018 23 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Does this respirator protection cover more than a single gas?

Yes or No.

Does the respirator use cartridges or canisters? 

How many cartridges or canisters?

Cartridge or canister location – Choose from the dropdown options:

Facepiece-Mounted, Belt-Mounted, Chin-Mounted, Chest- Mounted, Chest and back-Mounted, 

Hood-Mounted, Helmet-Mounted. 

Can the canister or cartridge be replaced?

Yes or No. 

Does the canister or cartridge have an ESLI (EOSL)? 

Yes or No. 

12 Intended Protection and Safety Design (Section C.12)

Air-Purifying Respirators Only: State all protections for which approval is requested. NIOSH does not 

permit the use of any form of chromium-impregnated sorbent material for nuisance levels due to the 

suspected carcinogenic effects. Chemical cartridges (23C) must identify the specific contaminants for 

which approval is requested (e.g., chlorine, chlorine dioxide, etc.). Canister PAPRs (14G) can list specific 

contaminants for which approval is requested, or may use “Acid Gas” as a protection if the protection 

applies. 

Note: If this respirator is to be used for underground mine use and has electrical components, MSHA 

intrinsic safety must be received prior to submitting to NIOSH.

Note: NIOSH does not permit the use of any form of chromium-impregnated sorbent material due to 

the suspected carcinogenic effects. In the case of CBRN PAPR respirators, identify the capacity level 

requested as CAP 1, 2, 3, or other. 

13 Pre-Submission Performance Test Data and Statements (Section C.13)

Respirator pre-submission performance test data must accompany each application and must: 

• Specify components used for test configuration by part number.

• Show units of measure for all test data (units of measure must match 42 CFR Part 84 Subparts 

I, J, K and KK criteria).

• Submit copies of actual test data with all results and conclusions.

To verify which tests need to be performed as part of the pre-submission testing, please refer to the 

“Respirator Test Selection Guide.” NIOSH expects that the applicant will have performed each NIOSH 

test and any additional tests the applicants deem appropriate during the process of validating that the 

device meets NIOSH approval requirements.

Note for resistance testing: 
3/20/2018 24 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Applicant data must include resistance values for all combinations of related Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators. This data must be representative of each complete assembly (including facepiece) seeking

approval. For resistance testing, NIOSH will test and verify the highest and lowest resistance 

combinations reported by the applicant.

Note for efficiency or penetration testing: 

For PAPR high-efficiency (HE) filters, three samples will be test against DOP, refer to the Standard 

Testing Procedure for HE filters, STP-0001. The test is an instantaneous test only. 

When an end-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) is included on a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator for a gas or 

vapor, include the following information:

• Demonstration of the ESLI as a reliable indicator of sorbent depletion, 

• The effects of any industrial chemical interference with the indicator,

• The shelf life of the indicator,

• Affirmation of visibility of the ESLI to the user when worn, and 

• Affirmation that the ESLI will withstand normal handling without damage.

Any respirator that has an ESLI should list caution “S” on the approval label. Also, the User Instructions 

must contain a special section that is labeled “S-Special or Critical User Instructions” where the ESLI 

information is contained. See Approval Labels in Section 7 for an example

14 Model Numbers and Product Trade Names (Section C.14)

The information provided in this field is how the product will appear in the Certified Equipment List. 

A product trade name that uniquely identifies the respirator or family is required. This name will be 

listed in the Certified Equipment List for public reference. In version 8 of the SAF for a New Approval

Application, the model number field can be blank but the product trade name field must be completed 

before proceeding to the next data screen. A product trade name may indicate a protection but it may 

not imply use. Model numbers previously used for particulate filtering devices approved under 30 CFR 

11 standards may not be reused or carried over to devices or configurations to be approved under 42 

CFR 84 standards.

15 Test Samples (Hardware) (Section C.15)

Regular production units submitted for approval must be the result of actual manufacturing processes 

[42 CFR Section 84.11(e)]. Applications will be denied if the test samples (hardware) provided for testing 

did not go through the manufacturer’s normal assembly, inspection, and test processes. Applications 

may be denied even if the component that failed is not related to the “Reason for Application.” 

Use the Respirator Test Selection Guide to determine the minimum number of hardware samples 

required for testing. Submit a sufficient number of hardware samples for testing at the time of 

application. The hardware samples to be used for testing must be sent under a separate cover from the 

application. In the application and on the packing slip with the hardware samples, list the item by part 

number and description, and indicate the quantity submitted for testing. Include a copy of the User 

Instructions in the box or shipping container with the hardware samples to be used for testing. 
3/20/2018 25 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

The outside of each box or shipping container and packing slip(s) should clearly indicate "Test 

Samples/Hardware" along with the name of the applicant, AAR#(s), part number(s), and quantity(ies). 

The hardware samples to be used for testing and any additional hardware samples requested by NIOSH 

must clearly show the part number on each item, regardless of how it is packaged. If additional 

hardware samples to be used for testing are requested by NIOSH, mark the shipment to the attention of 

the NIOSH employee requesting the samples. Include the AAR#, TN, and state “Additional Test Samples” 

on the outside of the box or shipping container. Cross-referenced lists will not be accepted.

The applicant must submit prepaid return shipping labels or provide other return means with the 

hardware samples for any materials to be returned upon completion of testing. “Please Return Samples” 

should be indicated on the packing slip. If NIOSH denies an application based upon documentation

issues, the application, and in most cases, all hardware samples will be returned. 

NIOSH does not retain hardware samples for any completed projects, approved or denied. The 

hardware samples will be promptly destroyed unless the applicant indicates the samples should be 

returned and prepaid return shipping instructions are provided. NIOSH is not responsible for customs 

charges. The applicant is responsible for all shipping costs and making all arrangements to clear the 

hardware samples through customs when shipping hardware samples to be used for testing to or from 

NIOSH.

The test sample hardware submitted with the application will be tested. No substitutions, additions, or 

deletions are permitted by the applicant once NIOSH receives the application.

If NIOSH evaluators determine a need for additional testing, additional test samples (hardware) may be 

requested.

Saving the Application

Once the application form has been completed, save the data file by selecting FILE, then SAVE AS, from 

the menu bar on the main menu screen. 
3/20/2018 26 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 3 Supplemental Information for Preparing an Application

 for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN 

 Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

 

3.1 Quality Assurance Documentation

Understanding the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84 Subpart E and specific quality system characteristics 

as noted below are necessary to adequately develop and maintain Quality Assurance and quality control 

programs acceptable to NIOSH. Prior to obtaining any approvals under 42 CFR Part 84, all approval 

holders are required to have an approved Quality Assurance (QA) Manual on file at NIOSH. 

If an organization has an approved Quality Assurance Manual and there is no change, complete the 

applicable blocks on the SAF. If a previously approved QA Manual is being revised, it is not necessary to 

submit the entire manual. In a separate QA application, submit only the sections that have been revised 

and an updated revision history sheet. 

3.2 Quality Assurance Manual 

Submit a Quality Assurance Manual that documents the following elements at a minimum: 

A. Statement of Quality Assurance. 

 - Upper management approval of the QA Manual (usually a signature). 

- A revision history sheet showing date and reason for revision. 

- A Table of Contents. 

- Management assurance that the QA system meets NIOSH requirements in 

 42 CFR Part 84 Subpart E. 

B. Description of Management Responsibilities as they relate to:

 - The company quality policy. 

- Personnel/organization structure necessary to carry out these provisions. 

 - Verification of quality (internal auditing). 

 - Quality system review. 

 - International Standards Organization (ISO) Certification (if applicable). 

C. Structure of Quality System. 

- Identify how quality procedures and instructions are prepared and implemented. 

D. Contract Review Activities (as applicable). 

E. Design Control for aspects of safety, performance, and dependability of the product reliability

programs. 

F. Control of All Documents and Data (control of engineering drawings, documentations, and 

changes). 

G. Quality in Purchasing. 

H. Control of Customer-Supplied Product (control of purchased material to include incoming 

inspection). 

I. Product Identification and Traceability. 
3/20/2018 27 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

J. Control of Production Processes (lot identification, control of processes, manufacturing, 

fabrication, and assembly work conducted in the plant). 

K. All Areas of Inspection and Testing: Receiving, In Process, and Final Inspection. 

L. Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment. 

M. Inspection and Test Status. 

N. Control of Nonconforming Product. 

O. Corrective and Preventive Actions (as applicable). 

P. Inventory and Handling Controls. 

Q. Control of Quality Records. 

R. Internal Quality Audits (audit of final inspection of the completed product). 

S. Training. 

T. Servicing (as applicable). 

Note: If the manual does not incorporate the specific elements within the document then the manual 

must link or list the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the various elements. 

3.3 Product Quality Control Plan and Documentation

Product Quality Control Plan (PQP) documentation is required to be submitted as part of an application 

to demonstrate to NIOSH the applicant’s process characteristics involved in controlling and monitoring 

the quality of the respirator being manufactured. 

Items that must be submitted are the:

A. PQP flowcharts showing all inspection and test operations. Identify each procedure by AAR#.

Inspection or test procedures must be clearly identified on the flow chart. 

B. Sampling plan and classification of defects document as described in 42 CFR Section 84.41 (c), 

(d), (e), (f), (g), and (h). 

C. Incoming, in process inspection, and test procedures for items listed on the assembly matrix. 

D. Final inspection and test procedures for the complete respirator and items listed on the assembly 

matrix. 

E. Simplified Powered Air-Purifying Respirator drawing. 

F. Assembly matrix.
3/20/2018 28 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.4 Fees 

An application fee of $200 is required at the time of submission for all approval requests. Checks are to 

be made payable to NIOSH, dated less than 30 days prior to the submission date, and contain the AAR#. 

The specific AAR# for the application must be written on the check. Checks older than 30 days may be 

returned. Separate checks are required for each application submitted. Do not issue multiple 

application fees on one check. Otherwise, checks will be returned and application processing delayed.

NIOSH will not begin processing the request until all items (application, check, and test samples 

(hardware)) are received. If a domestic applicant utilizes Pay.Gov, send a copy of the Pay.Gov receipt to 

the NIOSH NPPTL Records Room to facilitate linking the payment to the approval request. 

As part of the Initial Review Process, an estimate of the costs anticipated to be incurred during the 

evaluation will be provided. An email from the initial reviewer will be sent to the applicant towards the 

end of the Initial Review Phase. 

This estimate is prepared based on the “Reason for the Application,” the number of approvals affected, 

and the assigned tests. In the event other testing or other additional cost items are identified after the 

acceptance of the original estimate, the company will be contacted and an addendum to the estimate 

will be forwarded for acceptance.

Once the applicant has provided authorization to the initial reviewer via email, the evaluation can begin. 

During the Final Review Phase, an invoice for all fees, including testing of equipment, incurred in the 

processing of an application will be generated. Invoices will contain specific payment instructions and 

identify authorized methods of payment, and will be provided to the approval holder for payment. 

Respirator Approval Application-Based fees are as follows:

Administrative Fees:

Fee type Legal citation Amount Due date

Application 42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(1) $200 per application submitted. 

Upon receipt of any application 

request. To be submitted with 

application.

Approval 42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(1)

$100 per each certificate of approval 

issued.

Upon receipt of the invoice.

Approval 

Modification

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(1)

$50 per each certificate of approval 

modified. 

Upon receipt of the invoice. 

Site 

Qualification

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(3)

• Existing approval holder, paper review: 

$400 per each request to inspect new 

production facility. 

• Prospective approval holders: 

 ▫ One day domestic site visit - $2,500.

 ▫ One day international site visit - $7,500.

Upon agreement on the date of 

the site qualification. 

Note: For any modification to an existing approval, such as changes to User Instructions or PQP, the 

approval modification fee will be charged for all the approvals affected by this change. For example, if 

the User Instructions are revised due to a change in a specific respirator, but the same User Instructions 
3/20/2018 29 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

are used on a family of respirators (example: family consists of 20 approvals), the approval modification 

fee of $50 will be charged for all the approvals under that family of respirators (20 X $50 = $1,000).

Testing fees will be charged in accordance with the following fee tables and will be due upon receipt of 

the invoice. The final letter (approval or denial) will be issued to the primary contact once all reviews 

are complete. The invoice is to be paid within 30 days after receipt.

3.5 Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying 

 Respirators Test Fees

All of these tests may not apply to the specific type of respirator being submitted. These apply only to 

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators.

Air-Purifying Respirator Fees: 

0001 Determination of Particulate Filter Penetration 

(PAPR) $150.00

0003 Exhalation Resistance $150.00

0004 Exhalation Valve Leakage $300.00

0005 IAA Fit Test $1,800.00

0005* Qualitative Fit Testing $1,800.00

0005A IAA Fit Test for Full Facepiece $1,800.00

0006 IAA Fit Test for Half-Masks $1,800.00

0007 Inhalation Resistance $150.00

0012 Airflow Determination PAPR $150.00

0014 Leakage of Drink Tubes and Accessories $300.00

0025 Silica Dust Loading for PAPRs $1,200.00

0030 Noise Level in PAPRs with Hoods or Helmets $450.00

0033C Ammonia Service Life Testing PAPR Cartridges $750.00

0033D Ammonia Service Life Testing PAPR Canisters $750.00

0034 Carbon Monoxide Service Time $750.00

0035 Chlorine Service Time Testing $750.00

0036 Chlorine Dioxide Service Time Testing $750.00

0037 CN Service Time Testing $2,400.00

0038 Ethylene Oxide Service Time Testing $450.00

0039C Formaldehyde Service Time PAPR Cartridges $750.00

0040 Hydrogen Chloride Service Time Testing $500.00

0041 Hydrogen Cyanide $1,800.00

0042 Hydrogen Fluoride Service Time Test $750.00

0043C Hydrogen Sulfide Service Time Testing PAPR 

Cartridges $750.00

0044 Mercury Vapor Service Time Testing $2,400.00

0045C Methylamine Service Time Testing PAPR Cartridges $450.00

0045D Methylamine Service Time Testing PAPR Canisters $450.00

0046C Organic Vapor (CCL4) Service Time PAPR Cartridges $450.00
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0046D Organic Vapor (CCL4) Service Time PAPR Canisters $450.00

0047 Phosphine Service Time Testing $750.00

0048C Sulfur Dioxide Service Time Testing PAPR 

Cartridges $450.00

0048D Sulfur Dioxide Service Time Testing PAPR Canisters $450.00

0050 CS Service Time Testing $2,400.00

0060 Determination of End-of-Service-Life Indicator 

Drop $300.00

0061 Determination of End-of-Service-Life Indicator 

Visibility $300.00

0062 Nitrogen Dioxide Service Time Testing $750.00

0063 CO2 Volume Tight-Fitting PAPR Running $300.00

0064 CO2 Volume Tight-Fitting PAPR Unit Off $300.00

0065 Breath Response PAPR Airflow Resistance $300.00

0066 Determination of End-of-Service-Life Indicator $300.00

0067 Qualitative Fit Test, Bitrex or Saccharine $1,800.00

* Quantitative fit testing, using corn oil, may be performed in place of the qualitative fit testing 

performed with IAA, at the request of the applicant.

New Site Qualification Fee, existing manufacturer $400.00

Powered Air-Purifying CBRN Respirators:

0501 Cyclohexane (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,000.00

0502 Cyanogen Chloride (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $2,400.00

0503 Hydrogen Cyanide (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $2,400.00

0504 Phosgene (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,400.00

0505 Hydrogen Sulfide (Set of 9 Canisters)Tight-Fitting $800.00

0506 Sulfur Dioxide (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $800.00

0507 Ammonia (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,000.00

0508 Nitrogen Dioxide (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,200.00

0509 Phosphine (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,000.00

0510 Formaldehyde (Set of 9 Canisters) Tight-Fitting $1,000.00

0511 Cyclohexane (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,000.00

0512 Cyanogen Chloride (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $2,400.00

0513 Hydrogen Cyanide (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $2,400.00

0514 Phosgene (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,400.00

0515 Hydrogen Sulfide (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $800.00

0516 Sulfur Dioxide (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $800.00

0517 Ammonia (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,000.00

0518 Nitrogen Dioxide (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,200.00

0519 Phosphine (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,000.00

0520 Formaldehyde (Set of 9 Canisters) Loose-Fitting $1,000.00

0550 GB1 (SMARTMAN) Qualifier LAT(QLAT) Only $9,142.00

0550 GM1 (SMARTMAN) Remainder LAT (RLAT) $9.142.00
3/20/2018 31 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

0551 HD1 (SMARTMAN) QLAT Only $9,142.00

0551 HD1 (SMARTMAN) RLAT Only $9,142.00

0550/05511 Aerosol process TDA-99M (SMARTMAN) Only $600.00

0552 Laboratory Respirator Protection Level (LRPL) Tight-Fitting $20,000.00

0552 Partial LRPL Tight-Fitting $16,000.00

0553 Laboratory Respirator Protection Level (LRPL) Loose-Fitting $20,000.00

0553 Partial LRPL Loose-Fitting $16,000.00

Note: 1 Testing Performed at RDECOM. 

For CBRN PAPRs, tests 1, 3, 4, 7, 12, 14 (as configured), 25 and 30 (for hoods only) may also be 

performed.

A single payment (check or pay.gov) for multiple invoices is allowed. Include the AAR#s for each 

associated application on the check or the pay.gov receipt so they will be properly credited. Separate 

payments (check or pay.gov) will also be allowed for each application invoice. For application fee 

invoices, included the TN number(s) associated with the payment. To indicate a final payment for a 

specific application(s), add an -F after the TN number(s) (TN-nnnn-F). 

3.6 Annual (Fixed) Certification (Approval) Fees 

Annual (fixed) certification (approval) fees will be invoiced to approval holders who hold active or 

obsolete certificates of approval. Invoices will be sent in September with payment due by October 30 of 

the applicable year. Invoices will itemize the number of manufacturing sites and approvals and apply 

the fees per the following table: 

Respirator Certification Fee Schedule A—Annual (Fixed) Fees

Fee Type Legal Citation Amount Due Date

Maintenance of 

Product 

Performance 

(product audit)

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(5)

• Annual fee: $761 per each approval holder. 

• Variable fee: as billed by NIOSH based on the 

respirators chosen to be tested each year. 

October 30 of applicable year. 

Records 

Maintenance

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(1)

$50 per every listed1 approval on file with 

NIOSH on July 1st of each year. October 30 of applicable year. 

Quality Assurance 

Maintenance 

(Site Audit) 

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(4) 

• Annual fee: $3,000 per every manufacturing 

site registered with NIOSH. 

• Variable fee:2

 

▫ 1 day domestic audit - $2,500 per site. 

▫ 2 day domestic audit - $5,000 per site. 

▫ 1 day international audit - $7,500 per site. 

▫ 2 day international audit - $10,000 per site. 

October 30 of applicable year. 

Maintenance of 

Testing and 

Approval Facilities

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(2)

$34 per every listed1 approval on file with 

NIOSH on July 1st of each applicable year. October 30 of applicable year. 
3/20/2018 32 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Maintenance of 

Test Equipment

42 CFR 

§84.20(b)(2)

$36 per every active3 approval on file with 

NIOSH on July 1st of each applicable year. October 30 of applicable year. 

1. “Listed” approvals include all active and obsolete approvals. The Certified Equipment List

(CEL) reflects the current listed approvals maintained by NIOSH.

2. Applies to design as well as manufacturing sites.

3. Does not include obsolete approvals.

Checks are to be made payable to NIOSH, must be dated less than 30 days prior to the submittal date, 

and must reference the AAR#, TN, or NIOSH invoice number. 
3/20/2018 33 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.7 Pay.Gov Instructions

Domestic applicants may use the electronic fees transfer program known as Pay.Gov.

Note: Prior to making any payment of respirator approval fees, applicants must establish an account 

with Pay.Gov. 

A. Follow the web link provided below:

a. Pay.Gov homepage: https://pay.gov/paygov/homepage. 

B. On the center of the web page click on the link “Click here to register” to start the process or 

go to the web page address provided below:

a. Registration: Pay.gov - Register for a Pay.gov Account. 

b. Read the User Responsibility Statement, fill in the box, and select accept.

c. Select the “Continue with Self Enrollment” tab.

d. Complete the required fields in the Online Self Enrollment form and then select 

“submit.”

e. Use Pay.Gov username and password to log into the Pay.Gov system from the 

homepage.

f. Access the forms necessary to submit payments online using this process.

C. Fee Payment User Instructions. 

a. Open the Pay.Gov homepage.

b. Locate the “User Fee Form.”

i. Go to the Find Public Forms section below the login.

ii. Search for forms by three options:

1. Form Name.

2. Agency Name.

3. Search Public Forms.

iii. Use one of three links listed on the six forms in the system for the Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

1. Form Name: CDC Royalty BMLA and User fee Form.

a. Select CDC User Fee Form.

2. Agency Name: CDC Royalty BMLA and User Fee Form.

a. Select CDC User Fee Form.

3. Search Forms: CDC Royalty BMLA and User Fee Form.

a. Select CDC User Fee Form.

4. Click on the form name to open the online fillable form.

iv. Complete the Online CDC User Fee Form.

1. Complete all mandatory blocks marked with asterisks.

2. Under CDC Invoice Number, enter the three digit Applicant-Assigned 

Reference Number (AAR#).

a. If payment is for an existing Task Number (TN), enter the 

associated TN.

3. For “Payment Options,” select the “NIOSH User Fee” from the three 

choices.
3/20/2018 34 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

4. Enter a short description in the comments block regarding the 

payment. Add any specific identifying information regarding the 

submission that may help in processing the payment.

c. When submitting the form, users will be prompted to enter their Automated Clearing 

House (ACH) debit information.

D. Currently Pay.Gov accepts payment directly by the Automated Clearing House (ACH) feature 

or through credit or debit cards as follows:

a. Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

b. Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard processed only.

Note: More in-depth instructions and information can be found at Pay.Gov homepage. 
3/20/2018 35 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.8 Drawings for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a CBRN Powered 

 Air-Purifying Respirator

All drawings must be in English. Drawings are accepted in Adobe PDF, ProEngineer, Autodesk, Smart 

Draw, and Corel Draw. Drawings should be named using a unique identifier of the organization’s choice, 

R for drawing, the revision level (e.g., a, b, c, etc.), and the file extension representing the software 

program (e.g., XXXnnnnRa.dwg). However, it is suggested that applicants also use their three character 

manufacturer’s code in the drawing filenames (XXXnnnnRa.dwg). All engineering and CAD drawings must be 

saved and submitted in full view mode. All engineering and CAD drawings must be submitted in black 

and white. The signature blocks on each submitted drawing must contain the initials or signature of the 

preparer and approver along with the approval date for the drawing revision. 

3.8.1 Exploded-View Drawing and Major Subassembly Drawing for a PAPR and a 

 CBRN PAPR

For Powered Air-Purifying Respirators, the exploded-view drawing must be included along with the 

major subassembly drawings. The major subassembly drawings must include all the respirator

components with critical or major dimensions, materials, and characteristics as listed on the Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirator drawing checklist. User Instructions do not need to be illustrated on the 

exploded-view drawing. Do not include future submittals or unapproved assemblies on the explodedview drawing.

3.8.2 Example of an Exploded-View Drawing for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator

 

 

 

1

3

2 5

6

8

4

7

9
3/20/2018 36 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.8.3 Material Specifications on Drawings for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR

For material specifications, use the criteria of affecting performance or design. 

For example, if an accessory would not affect the performance or design, materials could be identified 

as plastic, metal, rubber, etc. However, if the items do affect performance or design, they would be 

identified as aluminum, butyl rubber, etc. 

The phrase “or equivalent” should not be used.

3.9 Component Vendors

If the applicant controls all specifications for the component, the component vendors do not need to be 

specified. If the applicant does not determine all specifications of the component, then the applicant 

must provide the name of the vendor. In accordance with 42 CFR Sections 84.42 (c) and 84.43 (c) the 

approval holder is obligated to manufacture to the approved documentation. NIOSH reserves the right 

to revoke, for cause, any certificate of approval where it is found that the applicant's quality control test 

methods, equipment, or records do not ensure effective quality control over the respirator for which the 

approval was issued. See the April 7, 2005 Letter to All Manufacturers on “Clarification of Supplier and 

Subcontractor Relationships" for additional information.

3.10 Assembly Matrix

• An assembly matrix is a diagram of the major subassemblies and accessories. It must be 

submitted electronically in Microsoft Excel 97 or later formats and it must be formatted as shown 

in the example (7.3). The assembly matrix cannot be part of the exploded-view drawing.

• Powered Air-Purifying Respirators can have multiple subassemblies. The assembly matrix should 

show individual columns for each subassembly of the Powered Air-Purifying Respirator, including 

chargers, airflow indicators (if included), all accessories, and the User Instructions.

• An “X” placed in the wrong box on a label or assembly matrix could delay the approval process. 

Please verify the placement.

• Only one assembly matrix is necessary for a series of applications involving a common assembly 

matrix. This assembly matrix must be submitted with the last application in the series. 

• The AAR# for the application that contains the assembly matrix must be identified in the 

Approval History section of each application in the series.

• When a new TC number is being requested, identify the rows for the new TC number using the 

numbering convention of “schedule#, AAR#, alpha character” in the TC number column. For 

example, for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator where the schedule# is 23C and the AAR# is 

MOR699, the TC number cell for the first row of the new approval would be 23C-MOR699a. The 

second row would be numbered 23C-MOR699b, the third row would be numbered 23CMOR699c, etc. 

• “TC-”can only appear in the column heading; do not use “TC-” in the assembly matrix row.

• Features that describe the respirator cannot be listed on the assembly matrix as a separate 

column. 

• Features associated with specific model numbers may be coupled together in the description 

column heading (e.g., Model 1201-EZ Flow, Model 1202-EZ Flow, etc.).
3/20/2018 37 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

• The listing of User Instructions on Powered Air-Purifying Respirator assembly matrices is 

mandatory. 

• More than one assembly matrix may be submitted with an application, if relevant. 

• Columns with new information or revised information may be lightly shaded. 

• Future submissions or unapproved assemblies should not be shown on the assembly matrices. 

• Blank cells need to be entirely blank. They should not contain any unnecessary information, 

spaces, embedded characters, hidden rows or columns, etc.

• The complete respirator or the respirator components listed on the assembly matrix must exactly 

match those illustrated on the exploded-view drawing. 

Some components may be an accessory on one approval and a required component on another. 

If a component is an accessory, this must be explained in the “Reason for Application.” 

If this information is not clearly stated, NIOSH will consider the component required.

The assembly matrix must list all major subassemblies and accessories. 

The NIOSH evaluation status for each component or subassembly must be indicated as follows:

X = An existing component or respirator that has been previously tested and 

approved by NIOSH in this configuration. 

N = A new component or respirator. If a new TC number has been requested, “N” must 

appear in every column across the entire row. If an Extension of Approval is requested, 

“N” should only appear in columns for respirators or components new to the approval.

P = Pending. A component or respirator submitted in an earlier application that is currently 

being evaluated by NIOSH.

R = A redesign or revision to an existing component or respirator where the part number has 

not changed. “R” is used to indicate a change to any associated document with that 

component.

- = A component or respirator designated by the approval holder as obsolete. Do not use 

 “double dash.” An obsolete item must be shown on the matrix as obsolete for the TC 

 number/part number combination at least once. Once organizations have submitted an 

 assembly matrix with obsolete items, they may drop these items from the matrix in 

 future submissions. If obsoleting an approval, dash marks must appear in every block 

 that a component for that approval was marked. 

A = Accessory item. An item that does not affect the ability of a respirator to meet the 

 requirements of 42 CFR Part 84. The approval remains in effect whether the accessory is 

 used or not. 

For easier review and evaluation, it is recommended that applicants lightly shade the rows and columns 

containing new (N), revised, or redesigned (R) components. 

If no cells are marked N or R, the applicant should reconsider whether an application for approval is 

required. If in doubt, call NIOSH NPPTL Conformity Verification and Standards Development Branch at

(412) 386-4000.
3/20/2018 38 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.11 Approval Labels and Private Labels Approval labels used in User Instructions, on packaging, or on devices must be legible. Labeling 

requirements vary based on the type and intended use of the respirator. See example label formats for 

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators. The list of protections must be in the same order and identical to the 

matrix. Submit draft versions of the appropriate labels. 

Labels must be submitted for all New Approval Applications, and for Extension of Approval Applications

when the components change. Labels must be created in Excel (97 or later) and follow the format of the 

examples. Accessories may be listed on the approval label, but are not required. NIOSH will accept draft 

labels with the location of the Health and Human Services (HHS) and NIOSH logos noted. Logos are 

available on the NIOSH NPPTL homepage. The applicant is responsible for inserting the logos during 

label production. Approval labels may not contain future submittals or show unapproved assemblies.

3.12 List of NIOSH Cautions and Limitations by Respirator Type

PAPR (HE filter only): A, B, C, F, I*, J, L, M, N, O, P, S*, AA*, FF*

PAPR (G/V cartridge only): A, B, C, F, H, I*, J, K*, L, M, N, O, S*, FF*

PAPR (G/V cartridge & HEPA): A, B, C, F, H, I*, J, K*, L, M, N, O, P, S*, FF* 

PAPR Gas Mask: A, F, H, I*, J, L, M, N, O, P, S*, BB, CC, FF*

CBRN PAPR (loose-fit 23C) A, B, C, F, H, I*, J, L, M, N, O, R, S*, Y, GG, QQ, UU, VV

CBRN PAPR (tight-fit 14G) A, F, H, I*, J, L, M, N, O, R, S*, Y, Z, BB, CC, GG, UU, VV

* Note: 

I Applies if the respirator contains electrical components and the intrinsic safety has not

been evaluated and approved by MSHA or a recognized independent laboratory.

K When used with half-mask, gas proof goggles are required for formaldehyde. 

S With unique or unusual design or critical operation requirements or a 

private label version.

AA Depending on use or design such as a mouthbit. 

Cautions and limitations may vary or additional ones may apply depending on design and performance.

If the respirator contains electrical components and the applicant wishes to list the respirator on the 

NIOSH approval label as intrinsically safe, first obtain intrinsic safety approval from the MSHA under Title 

30 CFR Part 18 or other recognized independent laboratory and submit verification of such approval in 

the application. If the respirator is for underground use, MSHA intrinsic safety approval must be received 

prior to submitting to NIOSH.

3.13 Private Labeling Versus Private Packaging 

Private Labeling

Approval Holder A enters into an agreement to allow Company B to sell Approval Holder A’s respirator 

as being manufactured by Company B. All packaging, labeling, markings, User Instructions, and 

literature should indicate Company B. This approach appears to the user that the approval holder of the 
3/20/2018 39 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

respirator is Company B. The only reference to the actual approval holder is in a Special Instructions “S” 

section. The respirator name, model number, and part number may or may not be the same as what is 

used by Approval Holder A. The NIOSH TC number will not be changed. Approval Holder A remains 

responsible for the respirator quality and all packaging, labeling, markings, and literature pertaining to 

the NIOSH approval. Approval Holder A must ensure that the private labeler does not misrepresent the 

NIOSH approval. Private labeling is always submitted to NIOSH by the approval holder for approval.

An Extension of Approval Application, submitted by the approval holder, is necessary for all private label 

requests. If a part number or model number changes, an Extension of Approval Application must be 

submitted showing this change in the assembly matrix and on all labeling. 

A Special Cautions and Limitation “S” is to be added to the private label approval label. A specific 

section titled “S-Special Instructions Section” is to be added to the private label User Instructions as 

follows:

The model/part number “respirator type” has been manufactured by Company (Approval Holder 

A) for private label Company B under TC-XXY-nnnn.

Private Packaging 

Approval Holder A enters into an agreement to have its respirators sold by Company B. Company B puts 

the assembled respirator in a different or additional package. The respirator name, model number, part 

number, respirator labeling, markings, User Instructions, and literature show Approval Holder A as the 

approval holder. The packaging may represent Company B and its catalog or other reference number. 

However, this packaging must be done in a manner which does not mislead the user to think Company B 

is the approval holder. Clarifiers, such as “Sold by Company B and Manufactured by Approval Holder A” 

or “Made by Approval Holder A for Company B” must be included on the packaging. The NIOSH 

approval label will not be changed. Approval Holder A remains responsible for respirator quality and all 

packaging, labeling, markings, and literature that pertains to the NIOSH approval. Approval Holder A 

must ensure that the private packager does not misrepresent the NIOSH approval. NIOSH does not need 

to be notified of private packaging arrangements (no application needs to be submitted).

Note: Private packaging does not result in any changes to NIOSH documentation on file for the 

approved respirator configuration. User Instructions and NIOSH approval labels provided on or with the 

package must not be changed. Approval labels and the package artwork are part of the NIOSH 

documentation and therefore must not be changed to remain a private packaging arrangement. 

For both private labeling and private packaging arrangements, the approval holder is responsible for 

notifying the private label or private packaging company of any changes in approval status, such as stop 

sale, rescission, or revocation. 

3.14 User Instructions

User Instructions must be submitted to NIOSH for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators. User Instructions 

may be listed on the assembly matrix for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators, but are not required. 
3/20/2018 40 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

An Extension of Approval Application is required for changes to the User Instructions. User Instructions 

and associated procedures such as maintenance requirements, inspection procedures, and donning and 

doffing instructions that pertain to the respirator submitted for approval must be submitted as a 

complete package. When there is a change, NIOSH will not accept only the amended pages. A complete 

User Instructions document must be submitted indicating what has been changed either by highlighting 

the changed items or a cover page listing the page numbers and detailing the paragraphs that were 

updated. The file description for the User Instructions must clearly and specifically identify the model or 

product line and revision level. Bold, underline, or otherwise indicate all changes to the User 

Instructions from the prior revision level. When an approval has a design or performance issue, 

corrections to the User Instructions is not adequate to address the issue. 

For cautions and limitations “S,” Special or Critical User Instructions, noted on the approval label and 

listed in the User Instructions: 

• Approval holders have discretion in what is identified as special cautions or limitations. To be 

“special” the specific attribute of the respirator must go beyond the standard cautions and 

limitations and be unique or unusual for the class of respirator. 

• If the approval holder states “Special or Critical User Instructions or specific use limitations 

apply,” the Special or Critical User Instructions must be readily identified within a separate 

section of the User Instructions with the heading, “S - Special or Critical User Instructions.” 

• Examples of special or critical instructions are special donning procedures, service life limitations, 

and private labeled respirators. 

For private label respirators, the “S” Special or Critical User Instructions section in the private label 

holder’s User Instructions will state:

“The model/part number “respirator type” has been manufactured by Approval Holder A 

(Company) for private label Company B under TC-84A-nnnn.”

If Special or Critical User Instructions or specific use limitations are stated, these items will be reviewed 

to ensure the items are correct and appropriate.

For all tight-fitting respirators that must be fit tested prior to use, the following the Occupational Safety 

and Health Administration (OSHA) reference must be included in the User Instructions:

Before occupational use of this respirator, a written respiratory protection program must be 

implemented meeting all the local government requirements. In the United States, employers 

must comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 which includes medical evaluation, training, and fit 

testing.

For all Powered Air-Purifying Respirators that include a nuisance level odor removal layer in the filter or 

other design, the following must be included in the User Instructions under a Special “S” titled listing: 
3/20/2018 41 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

This respirator offers nuisance level relief from (type of odor (such as organic vapors)) that are 

below the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). Nuisance level refers to concentrations not exceeding 

the OSHA PEL or other government occupational exposure limits, whichever is lower. 

Requirements Specific to Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

The approval label may be located on the container or box or inserted in the package or in the User 

Instructions.

The location of the approval label and User Instructions within the final packaging arrangement, are to 

be stated either on the respirator drawing or as an attachment to these documents. Packaging artwork 

is not required, but will be accepted as fulfillment of this requirement.

3.15 Packaging Art Work and Carton Design

In accordance with 42 CFR Section 84.33, the applicant will submit full scale reproductions of approval 

labels and markings, and a sketch or description of the method of application and position on the 

harness, container, canister, cartridge, filter, or other component, together with the instructions for use 

and maintenance of the respirator. 

Approval labels will include the HHS and NIOSH logos, the applicant's name and address, the approval 

number assigned by NIOSH, and, where appropriate, restrictions or limitations on use of the respirator.

When additional labels, markings, or instructions are required, the applicant will be notified. Approval 

labels and markings will only be used by the applicant to whom the labels were issued.

Legible reproductions or abbreviated forms of the label approved by NIOSH for use on each respirator 

will be attached to or printed on the following locations:

Respirator Type Label Type Location

Gas Mask Entire Mask container and canister.

Particulate Respirator

 

Entire Respirator container and filter container.

Abbreviated Filters.

Chemical-Cartridge 

Respirator

 

Entire Respirator container, cartridge container, and filter 

containers (where applicable).

Abbreviated Cartridges and filters and filter containers.

When companies receive and accept a NIOSH approval, the companies are agreeing to manufacture, 

inspect, and test the respirator as they stated in their documentation as approved by NIOSH. The 

company will maintain the Product Quality Control Plan, as submitted and approved, and will not 

deviate from this plan. The plan will only be changed after the company submits a request to NIOSH and 

this plan change is reviewed and approved by NIOSH. 
3/20/2018 42 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Each respirator, respirator component, and respirator container will, as required by NIOSH to assure 

quality control and proper use of the respirator, be labeled distinctly to show the name of the applicant, 

and the name and letters or numbers by which the respirator or respirator component is designated for 

trade purposes, and the lot number, serial number, or approximate date of manufacture.

NIOSH-Approved Powered Air-Purifying Respirators advertised and marketed as “Surgical Masks” or 

“Medical Respirator” and used in the healthcare industry cannot identify medical claims. NIOSH does 

not approve surgical masks or medical respirators. 

Approval holders may not imply “use” for approved respirators. 

Package advertising that is not permitted includes phrases such as:

“NIOSH-Approved Welding Respirator.” 

 A trade name implying use, such as “Medi-Ready Powered Air-Purifying Respirator.”

Packaging may include a phrase such as: “NIOSH-Approved Powered Air-Purifying Respirator; 

recommended by the approval holder for lacquer paints.” 

3.16 Summary of Related Documents Provide a complete and accurate listing of all new or revised files that pertain to the application. Give a 

specific filename to each controlled document submitted with the application. The summary of related 

documents must precisely match the electronic files submitted. Applications may be returned without 

being processed if the summary is incorrect. The following information must be included:

Filename: 

XXX represents the three character NIOSH-Assigned manufacturer’s code and should only appear 

on the application.

nnnn represents the unique characters chosen by the applicant.

The filename with extension must be listed, using Specific file naming conventions.

Spaces must not be used in filenames. 

Filenames are derived from the controlled document number, not the AAR#. 

For example, the filename for drawing 10222 revision A should be 10222Ra.dwg. 

For future submissions of the same document, the only change to the filename will be to the 

revision level; the next submission of the drawing above would be 10222Rb.dwg. Files submitted 

using the AAR# as filenames will be returned.

Document Type:

Pretest data, drawing, assembly matrix, draft approval label, QA Manual, PQP, service life plan, 

User Instructions, etc.

Description: 

Detailed description giving specific information identifying model name or number, revision level, 

drawing number, and title.
3/20/2018 43 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Software program extension: 

The software program (including version) used to create the file. 

nnnn = unique identifying characters. 

a, b, c, etc. = revisions. 

.xml, .xls, etc. = program used to create file. 

In addition to the application file, the manufacturer must submit related project documents. These documents 

must be in English and saved with the following file-naming conventions. Any files created in a language other 

than English will be returned unprocessed.
3/20/2018 44 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

3.17 File Naming Conventions

Required Documents Naming Convention 

Abbreviation

Acceptable Software 

Packages File Naming Convention Format

Application Form - 

Microsoft Access

Java

Adobe Acrobat

XXXnnnn.MDB

XXXnnnn.XML

XXXnnnn.PDF

Pretest Data PD

Adobe Acrobat

Excel

Microsoft Word

nnnnPD.PDF

nnnnPD.XLS

nnnnPD.XLSX

nnnnPD.DOC

nnnnPD.DOCX

Drawings R followed by revision level (if 

applicable)

Adobe Acrobat

AutoCAD

Scanned file

nnnnRa.PDF

nnnnRb.DWG

nnnnRc.TIF

nnnnRd.GIF

nnnnRe.JPG

nnnnRf.BMP

(a-f indicate various revision levels)

Assembly Matrix AM followed by revision level (if 

applicable) Excel nnnnAMa.XLS

nnnnAMb.XLSX

Draft approval labels DL followed by revision level (if 

applicable) Excel nnnnnDLa.XLSnnnnDLb.XLSX

Quality Assurance (QA) 

Manual

QM followed by revision level (if 

applicable)

Adobe Acrobat

Scanned file

Excel

Microsoft Word

 

nnnnQMa.PDF

nnnnQMb.TIF

nnnnQMc.XLS

nnnnQMd.XLSX

nnnnQMe.DOC

nnnnQMf.DOCX

Plus one signed paper copy

(a-f indicate various revision levels)

Product Quality Control 

Plan (PQP)

PQP followed by revision level (if 

applicable)

Adobe Acrobat

Scanned file

AutoCAD

Excel

Microsoft Word

nnnnPQP.PDF

nnnnPQP.TIF

nnnnPQP.DWG

nnnnPQP.XLS

nnnnPQP.XLSX

nnnnPQP.DOC

nnnnPQP.DOCX

Fees - Paper or PAY.GOV only Paper or PAY.GOV only

Service Life Plan SLP followed by revision level (if 

applicable)

Adobe Acrobat

Scanned file

Excel

Microsoft Word

nnnnSLP.PDF

nnnnSLP.TIF

nnnnSLP.JPG

nnnnSLP.BMP

nnnnSLP.PNG

nnnnSLP.XLS

nnnnSLP.XLSX

nnnnSLP.DOC

nnnnSLP.DOCX

User Instructions UI followed by revision level (if 

applicable)

Adobe Acrobat

Scanned file

Microsoft Word

nnnnUIa.PDF

nnnnUIb.TIF

nnnnUIc.DOC

nnnnUId.DOCX

(a-d indicate various revision levels)
3/20/2018 45 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

• If “zipped” files are submitted, provide the individual filename, description, and program for each 

working file contained in the zipped file. 

• If there is more than one User Instruction or assembly matrix, list them in the assembly matrix by 

name. 

• If NIOSH has requested replacement files, give the replacement files the same name as the original 

files. 

• Send replacement files only at the request of NIOSH, and send them directly to the NIOSH employee 

requesting the files. The requestor is responsible for having the corrected files posted to your 

project. 

• NIOSH will only accept replacement or new files that have been requested by NIOSH. 

• NIOSH will only accept single documents under a single file name. Multiple documents under a 

single file name will not be accepted and the application may be denied.
3/20/2018 46 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 4 Approvals and Denials

4.1 Approval Documentation

If the respirator complies with all of the requirements outlined in these procedures and 42 CFR 84, 

NIOSH will grant an approval and assign a TC number. 

All submitted documentation and supporting test data will become part of the approval record. 

Applicants may use consultants or authorized representatives as contacts for the application. Foreign 

companies may provide a U.S. contact as a consultant or authorized representative. These contacts may 

submit applications either by request of the company’s primary contact or in place of the company 

primary contact. NIOSH will send a letter to the applicant’s primary contact stating the nature of the 

approval and will return final approval label files, if applicable, with the appropriate approval 

documentation. For applicants using consultants or authorized representatives, the final letter of 

approval and enclosed documentation will be sent directly to the applicant with a copy of the approval 

letter to the consultant or authorized representative. All approval documentation and application 

discussions will be done through the company’s primary contact.

When application approval labels and assembly matrices contain rows of information for approvals 

other than the ones evaluated in the individual application under review, approval letters will indicate 

that only the approvals indicated (or marked or requested) under the individual application are granted. 

4.2 Denial Documentation

If the respirator fails to meet the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84, the application will be denied and all 

documentation, CD-Rs or DVD-Rs, and sample hardware will be returned or destroyed. NIOSH will not 

retain documentation or sample hardware for any respirator that has failed to meet all of the 

requirements. If NIOSH denies an application based upon documentation issues, the application, CD-Rs 

or DVD-Rs, and all sample hardware will be returned to the applicant’s U.S. or Canadian address or 

authorized representative. It is recommended that foreign applicants have and use their U.S. 

representative’s address on return shipping labels.

Note: If any failure occurs in a series of applications, all related applications will also be denied. 

Subsequent requests for approval of previously failed units must be submitted with all associated 

documentation and the reason for failure must be addressed.

4.3 Denial Prior to Assignment of a Task Number

Some of the reasons applications will not be accepted and will be denied prior to issuance of a TN 

include: 

• An application is assigned a previously used AAR#. 

• A major section of the application such as the assembly matrix, QA Manual, PQP, approval labels, 

pretest data, User Instructions, or drawing package is missing, is in an unacceptable file format, 

or uses an unacceptable file naming convention. 
3/20/2018 47 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

• Sample hardware, application package, and payment are not received within two weeks of one 

another.

• Shipping boxes contain sample hardware associated with different applications and without 

separate packaging to indicate what sample hardware goes with each application.

• Packages of sample hardware received within the same box are not clearly labeled.

• An assembly matrix is not associated with every application (except QA applications).

• The respirator is for underground mine use and has electrical components, but has not received 

MSHA intrinsic safety approval or the MSHA approval document has not been included with the 

application.

• A complete file list is not included in the related documents section of the application.

4.4 Denial of a Project Undergoing NIOSH Evaluation

Some of the reasons why applications may be denied after issuance of a TN include:

• Assembly matrix, exploded-view drawing, approval labels, or major subassembly drawings are 

incorrect (content or format) or show unapproved assemblies.

• Pre-submission test data is not complete. For example, it does not include total resistance on 

the complete assembly or all assemblies involved in the submittal(s).

• Sample hardware submitted does not match subassembly drawings, part numbers, or the 

assembly matrix drawing.

• Drawings are not in accordance with the documentation control procedures stated in the 

applicant’s Quality Assurance Manual.

• Additional information requested by NIOSH is not received within two weeks of the date 

requested.

• The application is for a new or unique respirator which cannot be approved under current 

regulations for which there is no existing NIOSH policy (e.g. a PAPR in combination with an SCBA, 

PAPR in combination with an APR).

• Applicant’s pre-submission test data indicates that the respirator would fail the NIOSH regulatory 

test requirements or the appropriate pretest data is not submitted with the application.

• The official submission either (1) requested approval of two respirators of different basic designs 

(includes submitting a filter media and alternate in the same application) or (2) requested a New 

Approval and an Extension of Approval in the same application.

• The Standard Application Form (SAF) has errors, deficiencies, or is incorrect.

• Items on the assembly matrix do not correspond exactly to the “Reason for Application,” drawing 

revision levels are wrong, components on the exploded-view drawing are improperly numbered

or documents are otherwise incorrect.

• Protection or intended use claims have not been requested or approval has not been obtained 

from other governing agencies (such as MSHA for mine use (along with MSHA intrinsic safety) or 

intrinsic safety from recognized laboratories.) 

• QA documentation does not have sufficient inspections identified, is missing required inspection 

steps, or inspections identified are not sufficient to meet the NIOSH requirements.

• The Quality Assurance Application includes other documents, such as a PQP or inspection 

procedures, in addition to or instead of the Quality Assurance Manual. 
3/20/2018 48 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

4.5 Respirator Certification (Approval) Program Decision Review Process 

NIOSH NPPTL has a structured Decision Review Process that enables applicants to request a review of 

decisions regarding NIOSH NPPTL policy statements, test procedures, and test results pertaining to 

ongoing respirator approval activities.
3/20/2018 49 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 5 Powered Air-Purifying and CBRN Powered Air-Purifying

 Respirator Test Selection Guide

Item Respirator Type *NIOSH Test # Title Total Materials Needed

6 PAPR with particulate 

and/or chemical 

cartridge or canister

Powered air-purifying

TEB-APR-STP-0001

Determination of Particulate 

Filter Penetration (PAPR)

3 complete respirator 

assemblies with components 

for assembling the highest and 

lowest resistance 

combinations 

3 exhalation valve assemblies

3 sets OV cartridges

10 filters or filter/cartridge 

combinations

plus 

10 sets of cartridges or 

canisters with filters for each 

gas or vapor

Note: All combinations with an 

ESLI must be submitted to 

verify ESLI visibility and 

damage resistance.

TEB-APR-STP-0003

Determination of Exhalation 

Resistance

TEB-APR-STP-0004

Determination of Exhalation 

Valve Leakage

TEB-APR-STP-0005, 

0005a, and 0006

Determination of Qualitative 

Isoamyl Acetate Facepiece Fit 

Test

TEB-APR-STP-0007

Determination of Inhalation 

Resistance

RCT-APR-STP-0012

Determination of Airflow For 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators

RCT-APR-STP-0014

Determination of Leakage of 

Drinking Tube and Accessories 

for Respirator Facepieces

RCT-APR-STP-0025

Determination of Silica Dust 

Loading Test for Powered AirPurifying Respirator Filters

RCT-APR-STP-0030

Determination of Noise Level 

Test, Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator with Hoods or 

Helmets

TEB-APR-STP-0033A

Determination of Ammonia 

Service Life Test, Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0033B

Determination of Ammonia 

Service Life Test, Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Canisters

TEB-APR-STP-0033C

Determination of Ammonia 

Service Life Test, Powered AirPurifying Respirators with 

Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0033D

Determination of Ammonia 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Gas Mask 

Canister(s)

RCT-APR-STP-0034 Carbon Monoxide Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0035

Determination of Chlorine 

Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0036

Determination of Chlorine 

Dioxide Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0037

Determination of aChloroacetophenone (CN) 

Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0038

Determination of Ethylene 

Oxide Service Life

TEB-APR-STP-0039A

Determination of 

Formaldehyde Service Life 

Test, Air-Purifying Respirators 

with Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0039B

Determination of 

Formaldehyde Service Life 

Test, Air-Purifying Respirators 

with Canisters
3/20/2018 50 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

TEB-APR-STP-0039C

Determination of 

Formaldehyde Service Life 

Test, Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

RCT-APR-STP-0040

Determination of Hydrogen 

Chloride Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0041

Determination of Hydrogen 

Cyanide Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0042

Determination of Hydrogen 

Fluoride Service Life

TEB-APR-STP-0043A

Determination of Hydrogen 

Sulfide Service Life Test, AirPurifying Respirators with 

Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0043B

Determination of Hydrogen 

Sulfide Service Life Test, AirPurifying Respirators with 

Canisters

TEB-APR-STP-0043C

Determination of Hydrogen 

Sulfide Service Life Test, 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

RCT-APR-STP-0044

Determination of Mercury 

Vapor Service Life

TEB-APR-STP-0045A

Determination of 

Methylamine Service Life Test, 

Air-Purifying Respirators with 

Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0045B

Determination of 

Methylamine Service Life Test, 

Air-Purifying Respirators with 

Canisters

TEB-APR-STP-0045C

Determination of 

Methylamine Service Life Test, 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0045D

Determination of 

Methylamine Service Life Test, 

Tight-Fitting Powered AirPurifying Respirators with Gas 

Mask Canister(s)

TEB-APR-STP-0046A

Determination of Organic 

Vapor (Carbon Tetrachloride) 

Service Life Test, Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0046B

Determination of Organic 

Vapor (Carbon Tetrachloride) 

Service Life Test, Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Canisters

TEB-APR-STP-0046C

Determination of Organic 

Vapor (Carbon Tetrachloride) 

Service Life Test, Powered AirPurifying Respirators with 

Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0046D

Determination of Organic 

Vapor (Carbon Tetrachloride) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Gas Mask 

Canister(s)

RCT-APR-STP-0047

Determination of Phosphine 

Service Life
3/20/2018 51 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

TEB-APR-STP-0048A

Determination of Sulfur 

Dioxide Service Life Test, AirPurifying Respirators with 

Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0048B

Determination of Sulfur 

Dioxide Service Life Test, AirPurifying Respirators with 

Canisters

TEB-APR-STP-0048C

Determination of Sulfur 

Dioxide Service Life Test, 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators with Cartridges

TEB-APR-STP-0048D

Determination of Sulfur 

Dioxide Service Life Test, 

Tight-Fitting Powered AirPurifying Respirators with Gas 

Mask Canisters

RCT-APR-STP-0050

Determination of 

O-Chlorobenzylidene 

Malononitrile (CS) Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0060

Determination of End-ofService-Life Indicator Drop

RCT-APR-STP-0061

Determination of End-ofService-Life Indicator Visibility

RCT-APR-STP-0062

Determination of Nitrogen 

Dioxide Service Life

RCT-APR-STP-0063

Determination of Facepiece 

Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen 

Concentration Levels - Tight 

Fitting, Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators, With the Blower 

Unit Running

RCT-APR-STP-0064

Determination of Facepiece 

Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen 

Concentration Levels - TightFitting, Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators, with the Blower 

Unit Off

RCT-APR-STP-0065

Determination of Airflow 

Resistance - BreathResponsive, Powered AirPurifying Respirators

RCT-APR-STP-0066

Determination of End-ofService-Life Indicator (ESLI)

Note: ESLI tested where used.

 * Actual tests selected may vary depending on design 

and intended use.

Item Respirator Type *NIOSH Test # Title Total Materials Needed

21 CBRN PAPRs

TEB-APR-STP-0001

Determination of Particulate 

Filter Penetration (PAPR)

4 complete respirators for live 

agent testing qualifying

6 complete respirators for live 

agent testing remaining after 

environmental conditioning

4 power adapters for live 

agent testing qualifying (QLAT)

6 Power adapters for live 

agent testing remaining (RLAT)

102 canisters (tight-fitting) or 

cartridges (loose-fitting)

49 complete respirators for 

bench testing loose-fitting

43 complete respirators for 

bench testing tight-fitting

TEB-APR-STP-0003

Determination of Exhalation 

Resistance

TEB-APR-STP-0004

Determination of Exhalation 

Valve Leakage

TEB-APR-STP-0005, 

0005a, and 0006

Determination of Qualitative 

Isoamyl Acetate (IAA) 

Facepiece Fit Test

TEB-APR-STP-0007

Determination of Inhalation 

Resistance

RCT-APR-STP-0012

Determination of Airflow For 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators
3/20/2018 52 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

RCT-APR-STP-0014

Determination of Leakage of 

Drinking Tube and Accessories 

for Respirator Facepieces

RCT-APR-STP-0025

Determination of Silica Dust 

Loading Test for Powered Air-

Purifying Respirator Filters

RCT-APR-STP-0064

Determination of Facepiece 

Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen 

Concentration Levels - Tight-

Fitting, Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators, with the Blower 

Unit Off

CET-APRS-STP-CBRN-

0311

Laboratory Durability 

Conditioning Process for 

Environmental, 

Transportation and Rough 

Handling Use Conditions on 

Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear 

(CBRN) Respiratory Protective 

Devices (RPD) Standard 

Conditioning Procedure (SCP)

CET-APRS-STP-CBRN-

0312

Determination of Field of 

View for Full Facepiece 

Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear 

(CBRN) Respiratory Protective 

Devices (RPD)

TEB-CBRN-APR-STP-

0313

Determination of 

Communication Performance 

Test for Speech Conveyance 

and Intelligibility of Chemical, 

Biological, Radiological, and 

Nuclear (CBRN) Full Facepiece 

Air-Purifying Respirator

CET-APRS-STP-CBRN-

0314

Determination of Lens 

Fogging on Full Facepiece 

Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear 

(CBRN) Air-Purifying 

Respirator

TEB-CBRN-STP-0501

Determination of CBRN 

Organic Vapor (Cyclohexane) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters)

TEB-CBRN-STP-0502

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Cyanogen Chloride) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters)

TEB-CBRN-STP-0503

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Hydrogen Cyanide) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters)

TEB-CBRN-STP-0504

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Phosgene) Service Life

Test, Tight-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 canisters) 
3/20/2018 53 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

TEB-CBRN-STP-0505

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Hydrogen Sulfide) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-CBRN-STP-0506

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Sulfur Dioxide) Service 

Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-CBRN-STP-0507

Determination of CBRN Base 

Gases (Ammonia) Service Life

Test, Tight-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-CBRN-STP-0508

Determination of CBRN 

Nitrogen Oxide Gases 

(Nitrogen Dioxide) Service Life

Test, Tight-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-CBRN-STP-0509

Determination of CBRN 

Hydride Gases (Phosphine) 

Service Life Test, Tight-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-CBRN-STP-0510

Determination of CBRN 

Formaldehyde Service Life

Test, Tight-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0511-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN 

Organic Vapor (Cyclohexane) 

Service Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0512-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Cyanogen Chloride) 

Service Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters)

TEB-APR-STP-0513-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Hydrogen Cyanide) 

Service Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0514-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Phosgene) Service Life

Test, Loose-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0515-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Hydrogen Sulfide) 

Service Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 
3/20/2018 54 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

TEB-APR-STP-0516-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Acid 

Gases (Sulfur Dioxide) Service 

Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0517-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN Base 

Gases (Ammonia) Service Life

Test, Loose-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0518-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN 

Nitrogen Oxide Gases 

(Nitrogen Dioxide) Service Life

Test, Loose-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0519-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN 

Hydride Gases (Phosphine) 

Service Life Test, Loose-Fitting 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirators (PAPR) (Set of 9 

Canisters) 

TEB-APR-STP-0520-

CBRN

Determination of CBRN 

Formaldehyde Service Life

Test, Loose-Fitting Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirators 

(PAPR) (Set of 9 Canisters) 

NPPTL-STP-CBRNPAPR-0550 +

Determination of CBRN 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR) 

Performance During Dynamic 

Testing Against the Chemical 

Agent Vapor Sarin (GB) 

Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear 

(CBRN))

GB (SMARTMAN) Qualifier 

LAT(QLAT) only 1 + 

NPPTL-STP-CBRNPAPR-0550 +

Determination of CBRN 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR) 

Performance During Dynamic 

Testing Against the Chemical 

Agent Vapor Sarin (GB) 

Chemical, Biological, 

Radiological, and Nuclear 

(CBRN) GB (SMARTMAN) 

Remainder LAT (RLAT) 2 trials 

+

NPPTL-STP-CBRNPAPR-0551 +

Determination of CBRN, 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR) 

Performance During Dynamic 

Testing Against Chemical 

Agent Distilled Sulfur Mustard 

(HD) Vapor and Distilled Sulfur 

Mustard (HD) Liquid Chemical, 

Biological, Radiological, and 

Nuclear (CBRN) 

HD (SMARTMAN) QLAT only1 

+
3/20/2018 55 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

NPPTL-STP-CBRNPAPR-0551 +

Determination of CBRN, 

Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR) 

Performance During Dynamic 

Testing Against Chemical 

Agent Distilled Sulfur Mustard 

(HD) Vapor and Distilled Sulfur 

Mustard (HD) Liquid Chemical, 

Biological, Radiological, and 

Nuclear (CBRN) 

HD (SMARTMAN) RLAT only 2 

trials +

TEB-CBRN-APR-STP0552

Determination of Laboratory 

Respirator Protection Level 

(LRPL) Values for CBRN TightFitting Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR)

TEB-CBRN-APR-STP0553

Determination of Laboratory 

Respiratory Protection Level 

(LRPL) Values for CBRN LooseFitting Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR)

+Tests performed at RDECOM 

 * Actual tests selected may vary depending on design 

and intended use.

Note: All test procedures are located on the NIOSH NPPTL website: 

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/stps/respirator_testing.html
3/20/2018 56 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 6 Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and CBRN Powered 

 Air-Purifying Respirator Checklists 

The following checklists will be used by NIOSH to review submitted documents for compliance to this 

procedure and 42 CFR Part 84. It is recommended that the applicants review their documents using 

these checklists prior to submitting the applications to NIOSH. These checklists may not be all-inclusive. 

6.1 NIOSH Respirator Application Checklist

1. _____ The AAR# is unique to the application.

2. _____ All the applicable sections of the SAF are complete.

3. _____ The “Reason for Application” accurately reflects why the application is being submitted 

(e.g., New Approval, Extension of Approval, Quality Assurance Approval, Correlation 

Testing Only, Resubmission of New Approval, Resubmission of Extension of Approval, 

or Amended Application). 

4. _____ The NIOSH TN where this (these) respirator(s) were last tested has been identified.

5. _____ All the files included with the application are listed in the SAF.

6. _____ All the files supplied are in the acceptable file formats.

7. _____ All the files are properly identified/listed in the SAF.

Test Samples (Hardware)

8. _____ Shipped under a separate cover.

9. _____ The individual test samples (hardware) for evaluation are identified with the AAR# and 

part numbers as listed on the assembly matrix. 

10. _____ The individual test samples (hardware) for evaluation are referenced on the assembly 

matrix. 

11. _____ The shipping container/box is marked with the associated AAR# and/or TN.

12. _____ The testing samples (hardware) package includes a packing slip identifying the items and 

quantity(ies) shipped.

Fees

13. _____ The application fee check or electronic funds transfer (Pay.Gov) receipt for $200 is 

included. 

14. _____ The fee check is dated less than 30 days before the submission date of the application.

15. _____ The check is payable to NIOSH.

16. _____ The check includes the EIN, if a U.S. company or subsidiary. 

17. _____ The check includes the AAR#. 

Assembly Matrix 

18. _____ The assembly matrix matches what is listed in the “Reason for Application” section of 

the SAF. 

19. _____ The assembly matrix and SAF represent the actual configuration of the new or modified 

approval. All applications, except QA Applications, require an assembly matrix.
3/20/2018 57 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

20. _____ The “Reason for Application” accurately reflects what is being requested (e.g., New

Approval, Extension of Approval, Quality Assurance Approval, Correlation Testing Only,

Resubmission of New Approval, Resubmission of Extension of Approval, or Amended 

Application).

21. _____ R’s are placed in the boxes that are associated with any change to the referenced 

components, including drawings, PQP’s, inspection procedures, or any other documents.

Drawings

22. _____ The necessary new or revised drawings are included in the application documents. 

23. _____ The revision levels on all drawings match those listed on the assembly matrix.

24. _____ Item numbers on the exploded-view drawing match the item numbers on the assembly 

matrix.

25. _____ All required information is present on the Powered Air-Purifying Respirator drawings, as 

indicated on the appropriate checklists.

Labels

26. _____ All applicable draft approval labels are included with the application (respirator, along 

with other labels as required).

27. _____ The assemblies identified on the label match those identified on the matrix (or matrices) 

with the possible exception of accessories and User Instructions.

28. _____ The abbreviated labels, primary company, and private label company, if applicable, are 

listed and shown on page two of the applicable drawings. 

29. _____ All the part numbers on the approval labels match the part numbers listed in the 

assembly matrix.

Cautions and Limitations

30. _____ All appropriate cautions and limitations statements are identified on the individual 

approvals.

31. _____ All cautions and limitations statements referred to on the approvals are stated on the 

label(s).

User Instructions

32. _____ The User Instructions include all the required information e.g., OSHA 1910.134

statement on fit testing, donning instructions, assembly instructions, additional 

warnings and cautions, private label statement (as required), name and contact 

information of the appropriate company.

Final Review of Application Documents

33. _____ All documents have been verified for the correct revision numbers and the revision 

levels match what is listed in version 8 of the SAF.

34. _____ Pre-submission testing indicating that all performance requirements specified

 in 42 CFR Part 84 is provided in the application and is complete. 
3/20/2018 58 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

6.2 Exploded-View Drawing Checklist for a PAPR and a CBRN PAPR 

1. _____ Drawing contains all major subassemblies and accessories that appear on the assembly 

matrix (except the User Instructions).

2. _____ Parts that are obsolete from the matrix should not appear on the exploded-view drawing.

3. _____ The reference numbering on the exploded-view drawing matches the reference 

numbering on the assembly matrix. All matrix assemblies are represented on the 

exploded-view drawing and there are no extra assemblies on the exploded-view drawing.

For every reference number on the drawing there is a corresponding number on the 

matrix, and vice versa.

4. _____ The drawing is properly titled, signed/initialed, numbered, dated, and contains a revision 

level.

5. _____ There are no reference dimensions on the drawing. 
3/20/2018 59 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

6.3 All Major Subassemblies for a PAPR and CBRN PAPR 

1. _____ Numbered, titled, signed/initialed by an authorized representative, with an effective 

date and revision level.

2. _____ Dimensions: length, width, or diameter, as applicable are referenced. 

3. _____ Material specifications or vendor part number is listed. 

4. _____ Part number location is listed. 

5. _____ Serial number location, if applicable, is listed. 

6. _____ Critical and major characteristics must be identified on the drawing or on a separate 

document.

7. _____ Inspection procedures or classification of defects are identified on the drawing or in 

additional documentation provided with the drawing.

8. _____ Expiration date is indicated, if applicable.
3/20/2018 60 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

6.4 Specific Components Checklist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator 

 and a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Respiratory Inlet 

 Covering (Half-Mask, Full Facepiece, Hood, Helmet) 

1. _____ Elasticity and length of the straps, method of attachment is listed. 

Filter

1. _____ Material specifications for filter media are listed. 

2. _____ Lot number location and code, or date of manufacture is listed. 

3. _____ Filter efficiency, including applicable nuisance protections is listed. 

4. _____ Final filter media form is identifiable (pleated, flat, etc.) is listed. 

5. _____ Filtering mechanism is listed (electrostatic, mechanical or other).

6. _____ Filters containing carbon layers include statement that carbon is chromium 

 free.

7. _____ Vendor for filter material is listed (only if the filter material specification is 

 not determined by the respirator manufacturer). 

8. _____ HE filter labels are either magenta or purple; the abbreviated label color needs to be 

 identified on the drawing.

Cartridge or Canister

1. _____ Material specifications including each carbon, with fill volume and mesh is listed. 

2. _____ Protections are listed. 

3. _____ Lot number location and code, or date of manufacture is listed. 

4. _____ Vendor for carbon material is listed (only if the carbon specification is not 

 determined by respirator manufacturer).

5. _____ Filters containing carbon layers include a statement that carbon is chromium free.

6. _____ Location and material of end-of-service-life indicator, if used is listed. 

7. _____ Color and markings conform to either ANSI K13.1-1973 or ANSI Z88.7-2001, and the 

 applicable specification is identified. 

Blower

1. _____ Lot number location and code, or date of manufacture is listed. 

2. _____ Intrinsic safety certification is listed (as designed).

Battery 

1. _____ Battery type is specified, i.e., cadmium, lithium, etc.
3/20/2018 61 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

6.5 Private Label Checklist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator and a 

 CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Checklist

1. _____ An assembly matrix showing private label version under current approval (TC) number is 

included. 

2. _____ If private label PAPR is a different model/part number than primary approval holder’s 

number, part number and description are in a new separate column on the matrix. 

3. _____ If the private label is the same model/part number as the primary approval holder’s 

 model/part number, the approval holder name and private label company name are in 

 the description column of the primary Powered Air-Purifying Respirator model/part 

 number.

4. _____ The private label abbreviated label is included on page two of the applicable drawing.

A. _____ Abbreviated label must appear on the PAPR filter or cartridge only and 

 include the following items: 

a. Private label company name. 

b. NIOSH is printed in block letters. 

c. Appropriate approval (TC) number (for 14G canisters only). 

d. Protection, (HE, CL, HC, etc.). 

e. Model or part number. 

f. The lot or date code is included on label or packaging.

B. _____ A draft of the full private label approval label is included and includes 

 cautions and limitations special “S.”

C. _____ Private label User Instructions are included. 

D. _____ “S” Special User Instructions section is required with the statement:

 Model nnnn Powered Air-Purifying Respirator has been manufactured 

 by approval holder xxx for private label company yyyy under TC-23C-nnnn. 

E. _____ Contact information and a contact person must be identified either in the 

 application or on a separate sheet. 
3/20/2018 62 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

6.6 Assembly Matrix Checklist for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirators and 

 a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirators This checklist corresponds to the Example Assembly Matrix in Section 7.3

1. _____ The title of the document is indicated on the top of the page.

2. _____ The assembly matrix has the following information in the top right corner of the page:

a. Title.

b. Applicant’s name and address.

3. _____ The following is indicated below the key box:

a. Date.

b. Revision level, if applicable.

4. _____ New drawings submitted with the application or the drawing revision level reflects the 

current revision level on file at NIOSH. If the drawing has changed from what is currently 

on file at NIOSH, the altered drawing needs submitted with the appropriate revision 

level noted. If the drawing is within another application at NIOSH, this information must 

be identified in the “Reason for Application” section. 

5. _____ The numbering system used for assemblies shown on the matrix and exploded-view 

drawing match. 

6. _____ The part number marked on the component must appear in the part number row 

(model numbers optional).

7. _____ Features that describe the respirator are not listed as a separate column on the matrix. 

 Features associated with specific model numbers may be coupled together in the 

description (e.g., Model 1201 with Nuisance OV). 

8. _____ Top row (A) must be a general category, i.e., facepiece, etc. Accessories must be 

included. “Alternate” will be in the column heading if there are more than one of the 

same assemblies.

9. _____ The NIOSH TN (B) where the component was last tested is listed in the bottom row. If 

new, indicate N. 

10. _____ The AAR# (C) appears in the first column from the left. 

11. _____ The TC number (D) appears in the second column from left. 

a. A new TC number is listed in the proper format: schedule# and AAR# followed by an 

alpha character.

b. List “TC-” only in the category heading.

12. _____ The list of protections (E) appears in the third column from left.

a. Verify the list matches the protections listed in the SAF. See the complete list of 

protections and cautions and limitations.

13. _____ The key box (F) must use only the characters X, N, P, R, -, or A. 

14. _____ TN/AAR# of the previously approved/pending matrix (G) is noted above the right-hand 

side of the table. 

15. _____ Current exploded-view drawing number (H) and revision is located directly below the 

TN/AAR# of the previously approved/pending matrix.

16. _____ A column for the part number/revision level of the User Instructions must be used.

17. _____ Flow indicator is listed for PAPR.
3/20/2018 63 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Section 7 - Document Examples for a Powered Air-Purifying 

 Respirator and a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator

7.1 a Example of a Product Quality Control Plan for a PAPR (non-CBRN)

Double Wing Manufacturing, Pittsburgh, PA Product Quality Plan (PQP)

DWPA Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Revision A, Date: 10/18/2016

Item Description Inspection Class Location AQL Test 

Method

Recorded 

Results

1 Full Facepiece Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Facepiece 

Leak Test

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% TP-00LT

Valve Leak 

Test

Major B Assembly 

Station

 2.5% TP-00VL

2 Breathing Tube Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Flow Test Minor Assembly 

Station

 4% TP-00BT

3 Blower Flow Test Major A Assembly 

Station

100% TP-00FC Assembly 

Station

4 Battery and 

Charger

Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

 1% Visual Assembly 

Station

Charging Test Major B Assembly 

Station

 2.5% TP-00CT

Capacity Test Major B Assembly 

Station

 2.5% TP-00CAT

5 Belt Assembly 

Correct

Minor Incoming 

Inspection

 4% Visual Purchasing

6 Filter Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Filter 

Efficiency

Major A Assembly 

Station

 1% TP-00DOP Testing 

Station

Silica Dust 

Test

Audit, 

destructive

Outside 

Lab

3 Units 

every 6 

months, 

TP-00SDT QA 

7 Cartridge Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Service Time Major A, 

destructive

QC Lab 1% TP-00OV QC Lab

8 Flow Tube Flow 

Measurement 

Correct

Major B QC Lab 2.5% TP-00FT QC Lab

8 Accessory, 

Spectacle Kit

Assembly 

Correct

Minor Incoming 

Inspection

 4% Visual Incoming 

Inspection
3/20/2018 64 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.1 b Example of a Product Quality Control Plan for a CBRN Powered Air- 

 Purifying Respirator

Double Wing Manufacturing, Pittsburgh, PA Product Quality Plan (PQP)

DWPA Powered Air-Purifying Respirator or CBRN PAPR Revision A, Date: 10/18/2016

Item Description Inspection Class Location AQL Test 

Method

Recorded 

Results

1 Full Facepiece Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Facepiece 

Leak Test

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% TP-00LT

Valve Leak 

Test

Major B Assembly 

Station

2.5% TP-00VL

2 Breathing Tube Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Flow Test Minor Assembly 

Station

4% TP-00BT

3 Blower Flow Test Major A Assembly 

Station

100% TP-00FC Assembly 

Station

4 Battery and 

Charger

Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

1% Visual Assembly 

Station

Charging Test Major B Assembly 

Station

2.5% TP-00CT

Capacity Test Major B Assembly 

Station

2.5% TP-00CAT

5 Belt Assembly 

Correct

Minor Incoming 

Inspection

4% Visual Purchasing

6 Filter Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Filter 

Efficiency

Major A Assembly 

Station

1% TP-00DOP Testing 

Station

Silica Dust 

Test

Audit, 

destructive

Outside 

Lab

3 Units 

every 6 

months, 

TP-00SDT QA 

7 Cartridge or 

Canister

CBRN Only 

Cartridge or 

Canister

Assembly 

Correct

Major A Assembly 

Station

100% Visual Assembly 

Station

Service Time Major A, 

destructive

QC Lab 1% TP-00OV QC Lab

8 Flow Tube Flow 

Measurement 

Correct

Major B QC Lab 2.5% TP-00FT QC Lab

8 Accessory, 

Spectacle Kit

Assembly 

Correct

Minor Incoming 

Inspection

4% Visual Incoming 

Inspection

 
3/20/2018 65 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.2 Example of an Exploded-View Drawing for a Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator or a CBRN PAPR

Item Description Part Number

Approved

Double Wing 

Manufacturing, 

Pittsburgh, PA

1 Full Facepiece 1000 Drawing: DWW 

10/18/2016

Part Number: Title: DWPR 

PAPR 

ExplodedView

2 Breathing Tube 943XX Release: DDW 

10/18/2016

Scale: NTS Revision: 0 Drawing 

Number 

LWM001PR

3 Cartridge/Filter 1001

4 Belt 567BT

5 Blower 987BL

Item Description Part Number

6 Battery 321BAT

7 Charger 543CH

8 Flow Tube 765FT

9 Accessory, Spectacle Kit 678AS

* User Instructions 100UI 

 

 

 

1

3

2 5

6

8

4

7

9
3/20/2018 66 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.3 a Example of an Assembly Matrix for a Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator (Non-CBRN)

 Double Wing Manufacturing

 123 Manufacture Lane

 Pittsburgh PA 15236, USA

 Phone: 412 555 1212

(G) TN or AAR# of previously approved or pending matrix: N/A

 N/A see exploded-view drawing for each respirator configuration

(H) Exploded-view drawing number: DWM001PR

Date: March 20, 2018

(A) Item 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 x Component Facepiece Breathing Tube Canister Belt Blower Battery Charger Flow Tube Accessories Instructions Description Full Facepiece Piece Standard Breathing Tube Canister in Packaging Standard Belt Motor Blower Rechargeable Battery Standard Charger Flow Tube Kit Instructions

Revision 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 10

Drawing 

Number

FPP

1011

BT002 OVC

001

BLT005 BLW 

4000

UBAT1 CH

0003

FR001 SPK001 N/A

Applicant-Assigned Approval Number (C)NIOSH Approval Number TC (D)Protection 1 (E)

Model / 

Part 

Number

1000 943XX 1991 567BT 987BL 321BAT 543Ch 965FT 678AS 100U1

LMWOOPR14G100CL/

HC/

OV/

HE

N N N N N N N N N N

NIOSH task number 

where component was 

last tested. If new, 

indicate as “N”

(B) 10101 N N 10101 N N N 10101 10101 N

Key: (F)

X = currently approved in this configuration

N = new component of configuration

“-” = obsolete

R = redesign or revision

P = pending

A = Accessory
3/20/2018 67 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.3 b Example of an Assembly Matrix for a CBRN Powered 

 Air-Purifying Respirator 

 Double Wing Manufacturing

 123 Manufacture Lane

 Pittsburgh PA 15236, USA

 Phone: 412 555 1212

(G) TN or AAR# of previously approved or pending matrix: N/A

 N/A see exploded-view drawing for each respirator 

configuration

(H) Exploded-view drawing number: LWM001PR

Date: March 20, 2018

(A) Item 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 x Component Facepiece Breathing Tube Canister Belt Blower Battery Charger Flow Tube Kit Instructions Description Full Facepiece Standard Breathing Tube Canister in Packaging Belt Motor Blower Rechargeabl e Battery Standard Charger Flow Tube Kit CBRN User 

Instructions

Revision 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 10

Drawing 

Number

FPP

1011

BT002 OVC

001

BLT00

5

BLW 

4000

UBAT1 CH

0003

FR001 SPK001 N/A

Applicant-Assigned Approval Number (C)NIOSH Approval Number TC (D)Protection 1 (E)

Model / 

Part 

Number

1000 943XX 1991 567BT 987BL 321BAT 543Ch 965FT 678AS 100U1

LMWOOPR14G200CBRN 

PAPR 

CAP

1

N N N N N N N N N N

NIOSH task number 

where component was 

last tested. If new, 

indicate as “N”

(B) 10101 N N 10101 N N N 10101 10101 N

Key: (F)

X = currently approved in this configuration

N = new component of configuration

“-“ = obsolete

R = redesign or revision

P = pending

A = Accessory
3/20/2018 68 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.4 a Example of an Approval Label for a Full Facepiece Powered Air- 

 Purifying Respirator (Non-CBRN)

 Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303, USA 

1-800-123-4567

DWPR PAPR

This respirator is approved only in the following configurations:

TC Protection

1

Cartridge

Filter

Alternate Facepiece Alternate Breathing 

Tubes

Blower Battery Belt Cautions and 

Limitations2

1001 1000 2000 3000 94325 94350 943100 3021 3022 3025

23CAARaOV/HE X x x x x x A B C F H I J L M N 

O P

23CAARbOV/HE X x x x x x x A B C F H I J M N O 

P

23CAARdOV/HE X x x x x x x x A B C F H I J L M N 

O P S

1 PROTECTION

HE - High-efficiency particulate filter for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

OV - Organic Vapor

2 CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

B Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

C Do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tight 

fitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts that may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer User Instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.
3/20/2018 69 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

P NIOSH does not evaluate respirators for use as surgical masks.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning.
3/20/2018 70 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.4 b Example of an Approval Label for a Full Facepiece CBRN Powered Air-

 Purifying Respirator 

 Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303, USA 

1-800-123-4567

DWPR PAPR

This respirator is approved only in the following configurations:

TC- Protection

1 

Canister in 

packaging

Alternate 

Facepiece

Alternate Breathing 

Tubes

Blower Battery Belt Cautions and 

Limitations2,3

1001

1000 2000 3000 

94325 94350 943100 3021 3022 3025

14GAARaCBRN PAPR 

Cap 1

x x x x x x A F H I J L M N 

ORSYZ BB CC GG 

UU VV

14GAARbCBRN PAPR 

Cap 1

x x x x x x x A F H I J L M N 

ORSYZ BB CC GG 

UU VV

14GAARdCBRN PAPR 

Cap 1

x X x x x x x x A F H I J L M N 

ORSYZ BB CC GG 

UU VV

1 PROTECTION

CBRN - Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear

PAPR Cap 1 - Capacity meets minimum 15 minute test time 

2 CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tight 

fitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts that may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer User Instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.
3/20/2018 71 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning.

BB Not for use for entry into atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

CC For entry, do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

3 CBRN CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

R Some CBRN agents may not present immediate effects from exposure, but can result in delayed 

impairment, illness, or death.

Y The respirator provides respiratory protection against inhalation of radiological and nuclear dust 

particles. Procedures for monitoring radiation exposure and full radiation protection must be 

followed.

Z If during use, an unexpected hazard is encountered such as a secondary CBRN device, pockets of 

entrapped hazard or any unforeseen hazard, immediately leave the area for clean air.

GG Direct contact with CBRN agents requires proper handling of the respirator after use. Correct 

disposal procedures must be followed.

UU The respirator should not be used beyond eight (8) hours after initial exposure to chemical 

warfare agents to avoid possibility of agent permeation. If liquid exposure is encountered, the 

respirator should not be used for more than two (2) hours.

VV PAPRS with TC-23C approvals may NOT be used for escape from IDLH atmospheres.

 
3/20/2018 72 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.5 Example of an Approval Label for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator 

 Filter 

 

Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303 USA

1-800-123-4567

Halo Filter

This filter is approved only in the following configurations: 

TC 

Number

Protection

1 

HE Filter Alternate

Facepiece

Alternate

Breathing Tube

Cartridge Blower Battery Belt Cautions 

and 

Limitations 

2

HALO 1000 2000 3000 94325 94350 94351 1001 3021 3022 3025

23C300OV/HE x x x x x x x x x x A, B, C, H, I, 

J, M, N, O, P

23C400OV/HE x X x x x x x x x A, B, C, H, I, 

J, L, M, N, O, 

P, S

1 PROTECTION

HE - High-efficiency particulate filter for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

OV - Organic Vapor 

2 CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

B Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

C Do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts that may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer User Instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

P NIOSH does not evaluate respirators for use as surgical masks.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning. 
3/20/2018 73 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.6 Example of an Approval Label for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator 

 Chemical Cartridge

 

Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303 USA

1-800-123-4567

This cartridge is approved only in the following configurations: 

TC 

Number

Protection

1 

Cartridge Alternate

Facepiece

Alternate

Breathing Tube

HE 

Filter

Blower Battery Belt Cautions 

and 

Limitations 

2

1001 1000 2000 3000 94325 94350 94351 HALO 3021 3022 3025

23C200OV x x x x x x A, B, C, F, H, 

I, J, M, N, O

23C300OV/HE x x x x x x x A, B, C, F, H, 

I, J, M, N, O, 

P

23C400OV/HE x x x x x x x x A, B, C, F, H, 

I, J, L, M, N, 

O, P, S

1 PROTECTION

HE - High-efficiency particulate filter for Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

OV - Organic Vapor 

2 CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

B Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

C Do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tightfitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts that may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer User Instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

P NIOSH does not evaluate respirators for use as surgical masks.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning. 
3/20/2018 74 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.7 Example of an Abbreviated Filter Label for a Powered Air-Purifying 

Respirator 

 

Note: CBRN PAPRs cannot have an abbreviated filter label

Filter Version

Note: 

The company name must be completely spelled out or a NIOSH acceptable abbreviation used. Please 

contact NIOSH for acceptability of abbreviation.

The part number must be shown.

The protections provided by the filter must be accurately listed. 

Multiple protection identifiers as listed on the full filter label are separated by a forward slash. See 

example on drawing 7.8.

A lot number or other production tracking identifier must be provided on the respirator or container.

The word “NIOSH” must be shown in all capital letters.

All information must be provided in a legible typeface readable by the user.

The HE series of filters must be magenta or purple in color.

Double Wing 

Manufacturing 

P/N 987 HE

Lot #xxxxxxx

NIOSH
3/20/2018 75 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.8 Example of an Abbreviated Cartridge Approval Label for a Powered 

Air-Purifying Respirator Chemical Cartridge

 

DOUBLE WING MANUFACTURING

• P/N 9876

• NIOSH

• OV/CL/HC/SD

• LOT #4321A

Note: 

The company name must be completely spelled out.

The part number must be shown.

The protections provided by the cartridge must be accurately listed with each protection identified as 

shown on the cartridge label and separated by a forward slash.

The word “NIOSH” must be listed in capital letters.

A lot number or other production tracking identifier must be provided.

All information must be provided in a legible typeface readable by the user.

Color codes of cartridges for gases and vapors must meet the requirements of ANSI K13.1-1973 or

ANSI Z88.7-2001. The applicable specification will be called out on the cartridge drawing. 

See January 17, 2008 Letter to All Manufacturers. 
3/20/2018 76 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

7.9 a Example of a Label for a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Full 

 Facepiece Canister (non CBRN)

 Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303 USA

1-800-123-4567

CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tight 

fitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts which may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer's instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

P NIOSH does not evaluate respirators for use as surgical masks.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning. 

BB Not for use for entry into atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

CC For entry, do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

Note: The labels for gas mask respirators and respirators with canisters must appear in their entirety in 

the User Instructions.

List canister part number and trade name

List protections

TC-14G-1234

TC-14G-2345

TC-14G-3456

TC-14G-4567

Refer to the approved User Instructions for the complete list of 

component parts making up the approved assembly.
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7.9 b Example of a Label for a CBRN Powered Air-Purifying Respirator Full 

 Facepiece Canister

 

Double Wing Manufacturing Company

456 John Denver Way

Almost Heaven WV 26303 USA

1-800-123-4567

CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS 

A Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.

F Do not use Powered Air-Purifying Respirators if airflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tight 

fitting facepieces or six cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. 

H Follow established cartridge and canister change schedules or observe ESLI to ensure that 

cartridges and canisters are replaced before breakthrough occurs.

I Contains electrical parts which may cause an ignition in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

J Failure to properly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.

L Follow the manufacturer's instructions for changing cartridges, canister and/or filters.

M All approved respirators shall be selected, fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, 

OSHA, and other applicable regulations.

N Never substitute, modify, add, or omit parts. Use only exact replacement parts in the 

configuration as specified by the manufacturer.

O Refer to User Instructions, and/or maintenance manuals for information on use and maintenance 

of these respirators.

S Special or critical User Instructions and/or specific use limitations apply. Refer to User 

Instructions before donning. 

BB Not for use for entry into atmospheres immediately dangerous to life or health.

CC For entry, do not exceed maximum use concentrations established by regulatory standards.

CBRN CAUTIONS and LIMITATIONS

R Some CBRN agents may not present immediate effects from exposure, but can result in delayed 

impairment, illness, or death.

List canister part number and trade name

CBRN PAPR CAP 1

TC-14G-1234

TC-14G-2345

TC-14G-3456

Refer to the approved User Instructions for the complete list of 

component parts making up the approved assembly.
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Y The respirator provides respiratory protection against inhalation of radiological and nuclear dust 

particles. Procedures for monitoring radiation exposure and full radiation protection must be 

followed.

Z If during use, an unexpected hazard is encountered such as a secondary CBRN device, pockets of 

entrapped hazard or any unforeseen hazard, immediately leave the area for clean air.

GG Direct contact with CBRN agents requires proper handling of the respirator after use. Correct 

disposal procedures must be followed.

UU The respirator should not be used beyond eight (8) hours after initial exposure to chemical 

warfare agents to avoid possibility of agent permeation. If liquid exposure is encountered, the 

respirator should not be used for more than two (2) hours.

VV PAPRS with TC-23C approvals may NOT be used for escape from IDLH atmospheres.

Note: The labels for gas mask respirators and respirators with canisters must appear in their entirety in 

the User Instructions.
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Section 8 - Label Format Guidance

• Labels for Powred Air-Purifying Respirators and CBRN Air-Purifying Respirators must be 

completed in the assembly matrix format shown in the preceding examples. 

• The TC number is listed in the far left column. For initial submittals, the TC number is the 

schedule# and AAR# followed by an alpha character, exactly as in the assembly matrix. This links 

the approval label to the application and assembly matrix. Upon approval, NIOSH will insert the 

TC number. “TC-” can only appear in the column heading, not in the row. 

• Protections are the second column from the left. 

• Cautions and limitations are the far right column. 

• The component columns must list all of the major subassemblies and accessories and can be in 

any order that the applicant chooses. 

• Anytime more than one of the same subassemblies for a respirator configuration is listed on the 

approval label, the subassemblies must be identified as alternate components by adding 

“Alternate” to the column heading. X is the only character that may be used in the body of the 

approval label to designate an approved component. 

• If a component is offered as an accessory, the category must be labeled as “accessory” (e.g., 

“Accessory Cover"). 

• Empty rows are not permitted. Approval labels must not be color coded.

• Wording of the standard protections and cautions and limitations must be identical to the NIOSH 

samples. Only appropriate cautions and limitations may be listed. For example, if only cautions 

and limitations A, C, and J apply, then only A, C, and J can be footnoted at the bottom of the 

label. 

• Caution and limitation F only applies to PAPRs. 

• The abbreviated label mounted on Powered Air-Purifying Respirators must clearly indicate the 

approval holder’s name, filter series (if a filter is included), gas or vapor protection, part number, 

lot number, and the acronym “NIOSH” mounted on the cartridge, filter, or cartridge/filter 

combination.

• The abbreviated label may list either the two letter codes for gases and vapors (see label 

examples) or the entire chemical name. However, the abbreviated label must not have a mix of 

codes and names. 

• Canister labels must clearly indicate the approval holder’s name, address, and phone number, 

model/trade name, type of protection, TC number, appropriate cautions and limitations, 

reference to the User Instructions for major subassembly and component information, and the 

HHS and NIOSH logos. The entire gas mask respirator label must appear in the User Instructions.

• If all respirators on the label are of the same series or family, text may be added to identify the 

respirator series or family, e.g., LWPA PAPR. This heading is optional on all approval labels.

• Non-NIOSH approval identifiers cannot be represented on any NIOSH labels. Applicants may use 

additional areas on the component to identify any other applicable approvals such as the 

European CE approval. However, this information must be separated from the NIOSH approval 

label. 
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• If the label will not fit on the container, it must be included inside the container. If the label is 

inserted, the container must say “NIOSH-Approved - see insert.” The insert may consist of the 

approval label or the User Instructions containing the approval label.

• NIOSH only tests against gases and vapors individually and therefore the applicant assumes the 

liability for use of the respirators in mixed atmospheres. NIOSH assumes that the gases and 

vapors listed in the protection column of the approval labels are used against only one of the 

listed gases or vapors. An applicant may demonstrate to NIOSH that sorbents are effective in 

exposures to mixed gas and vapor atmospheres or serial exposures to different atmospheres by 

providing data to NIOSH satisfying the six criteria for mixed gas and vapor atmospheres as listed 

in the Notice to all Manufacturers, September 24, 1981. When the data has been received, 

reviewed, and accepted by NIOSH, the approval holder is permitted to state that they endorse 

the use of the cartridges in mixed gas and vapor atmospheres in the User Instructions or 

respirator literature. The approval holder may not state that NIOSH endorses the use of the 

respirators in mixed gas and vapor atmospheres. 

• The slash on the label in the protection column serves only as a divider between protections. 

• ‘Escape’ may be abbreviated in the protection column but must be spelled out in the legend. On 

abbreviated cartridge labels, escape must follow each gas and vapor listed. “Esc” is the only 

acceptable abbreviation for escape. 
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APPENDIX
3/20/2018 82 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Public Health Service

Centers for Disease Control 

 and Prevention (CDC)

National Institute for Occupational 

 Safety and Health (NIOSH)

National Personal Protective

 Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)

P.O. Box 18070 

Pittsburgh, PA 15236-0070 

Phone: 412-386-5200 

Fax: 412-386-4089 

September 24, 2012 

LETTER TO ALL RESPIRATOR MANUFACTURERS 

Subject: Sampling Procedures 

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) requires that respirator 

approval holders inspect and/or test samples of respirators and components as part of their 

quality control plans. This requirement is stated in Title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 

84 (42 CFR 84), specifically in §§ 84.41(b) through 84.41(i). Some applicants or approval 

holders have had difficulty understanding how to select and use a sampling procedure which 

meets the requirements. This letter is intended to explain the practical use of common 

standard procedures acceptable to NIOSH. 

This letter will not discuss statistical theory underlying acceptance sampling. If applicants or 

approval holders intend to use alternatives to the procedures described here, they must 

understand the concepts of acceptance sampling and process control. The use of more 

modern methods such as calculating process capability values (Cpk) or employing statistical 

process control (SPC) is encouraged where this is compatible with the approval holder’s 

operations and provides equivalent assurance of respirator performance. Justification to 

demonstrate the equivalence of these procedures must be provided in the application seeking 

approval. 

1. Selection of Sampling Procedures 

1.1 Sampling by Variables. The standard sampling procedure specified in 42 CFR Part 84 is 

MIL-STD-414 [U.S. Department of Defense 1957]. This is a variable sampling plan, which 

means that the characteristic must be something that can be measured numerically on a 

continuous scale. Examples include the diameter of a hole in inches, the mass of a cartridge in 

grams, or the leakage of an exhalation valve in milliliters per minute. This procedure is only 

valid when the characteristic being measured has a statistically normal distribution over the 
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population being sampled. The ANSI/ASQ Z1.9 standard [American National Standards 

Institute 2003b] is derived from MIL-STD-414, and NIOSH considers it to be equivalent. 

1.2 Sampling by Attributes. The MIL-STD-105D sampling procedure [U.S. Department of 

Defense 1963] is explicitly accepted as an equivalent procedure in 42 CFR Part 84. This is an 

attribute sampling plan, which means that each characteristic is simply checked to see whether 

it is acceptable. Due to its simplicity, this standard and its derivatives are by far the most 

common in use. It has the advantage that it can be applied to characteristics which do not 

involve a numerical measurement (such as visual checks) as well as to those that are 

measurable. No calculations are needed to determine acceptance, and the procedure is valid 

whether the Page 2 – Letter to All Respirator Manufacturers 9-2012 characteristic has a normal 

distribution or not. Typically the sample sizes will be larger than the corresponding variable 

sampling plan. Procedures derived from this standard, and which NIOSH considers to be 

equivalent, include MIL-STD-105E [U.S. Department of Defense 1989] and ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 

[American National Standards Institute 2003a]. 

1.3 Zero-Defect Sampling by Attributes. Another attribute sampling plan which NIOSH accepts as 

equivalent is the Squeglia C=0 procedure [Squeglia 2008]. While not directly derived from MIL-STD105E, its plans are matched to that procedure and provide an acceptable statistical assurance of lot 

quality. The chief difference is that in all cases, the lot is only accepted if there are zero defects found in 

the sample (C=0). This procedure usually requires fewer samples than MIL-STD-105D and related 

standards, and is the simplest to use of those listed in this letter. However, it is generally only suitable 

when defects in production are extremely rare. 

1.4 Equivalent Standards. The ANSI/ASQ standards mentioned above are revised periodically. In 

general, NIOSH will consider later editions of a given procedure to be equivalent. There may also be 

other national or international standards based on MIL-STD-414 or MIL-STD-105D that can be 

considered equivalent. If such a standard is used, NIOSH may request a copy from the applicant to 

verify its equivalence. 

1.5 Obtaining Sampling Procedure Documents. One feature of MIL-STD plans is that as works of the 

United States Government, they may be copied free of charge. Those mentioned can be downloaded 

from the Internet Archive at http://www.archive.org/ and may be available elsewhere. However, all MILSTD documents in this letter have been cancelled by the Department of Defense and are no longer 

maintained or revised. The corresponding ANSI/ASQ standards are successors to the MIL-STD documents 

and have various minor improvements and clarifications added. Copies of these standards may be 

purchased from the American Society for Quality, the American National Standards Institute, or others 

who deal in national standards. 

2. Acceptable Quality Level (AQL)

• Meaning of AQL. The acceptable quality level is an indicator of the percent defective that can

be considered satisfactory for a particular characteristic. Smaller AQL values mean that fewer

defectives will be tolerated in an acceptable lot.
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• Selection of AQL. The classification of defects document submitted with each application as

required by 42 CFR Section 84.41(c) through 84.41(e) must identify the severity level of each

characteristic. The AQL to be used for sampling is shown in the table below and is defined in 42 CFR

Section 84.41(g). The AQL value does not depend on lot size or any other factor, and it is generally

improper to modify the AQL for any reason other than the defect classification.

1 These are called “index values” in the Squeglia C=0 procedure.

2 It is acceptable to use a smaller (more stringent) AQL value.

2.3 Critical Characteristics. Characteristicsidentified as Critical in the classification of defects are not

assigned an AQL and are not eligible for any form of sampling. Each item made must be 100%

inspected as required by 42 CFR Section 84.41(f) and the entire lot rejected when a defect is found.

Any plans to perform rework on the lot must be approved as part of the product quality plan.

2.4 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-414 section A4; ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003 sections A2.1, A4; MIL-STD105D section 4; MIL-STD-105E sections 3.1, 4.4; ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 section 4; Squeglia C=0 pages 3,

6.

3. Inspection Level

3.1 Meaning of Inspection Level. The inspection level decides the number of samples to be drawn for

a particular lot size and determines the sampling plan’s ability to discriminate between conforming

and nonconforming lots. Lower inspection levels increase the risk that a nonconforming lot will be

accepted.

3.2 Selection of Inspection Level. The inspection level to be used is shown in the “normal” column of

the table below and is defined in 42 CFR Section 84.41(h). As a special exception, NIOSH is permitted

under 42 CFR Section 84.41(i) to allow a lower inspection level for destructive testing only. The

minimum level NIOSH will accept under this exception is in the “destructive” column. Approval of a 

level lower than the “normal” level is entirely at NIOSH’s option and will only be granted if the rest of

the inspection plan ensures adequate control over product quality.

Defect Classification AQL1,2

Major A 1.0

Major B 2.5

Minor 4.0

Procedure Minimum Inspection Level

Normal Destructive1

MIL-STD-414 IV I

ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003 II S-3

MIL-STD-105D II S-2

MIL-STD-105E II S-2

ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 II S-2
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1 Only permitted with specific prior approval from NIOSH.

The Squeglia C=0 procedure does not use the concept of inspection levels and NIOSH treats it as

equivalent to inspection level II of MIL-STD-105D.

3.3 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-414 section A7.1; ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003 section A7.1; MIL-STD105D sections 9.2, 9.3; MIL-STD-105E sections 4.9.1, 4.9.2; ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 sections 9.2, 9.3.

4. Normal, Reduced, and Tightened Inspection

4.1 Use of Switching Rules. Most sampling procedures referenced in this letter contain rules allowing

reduced inspection under certain conditions. Reduced inspection may be used only when all

conditions listed in the switching rules are met. This includes the requirement that production is not

irregular or delayed. A history of lot acceptance at one manufacturing site cannot be used to move to

reduced sampling at another site. Approval holders may choose to stay at normal inspection even

when conditions for reduced inspection are met. However, tightened inspection is not optional and

must be used where specified by the rules. The Squeglia C=0 procedure does not recommend

switching rules, and reduced inspection is not permitted by NIOSH for that procedure. Tightened

inspection is not required for the Squeglia C=0 procedure.

4.2 Recordsto Support Reduced Inspection. To use reduced inspection, the approval holder must

maintain inspection records showing that the conditions in the applicable procedure are met.

Such records must be available for review during NIOSH on-site audits.

4.3 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-414 sections A8, B14, C14, D14; ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003 section

A10; MIL-STD-105D section 8; MIL-STD-105E sections 4.6, 4.7, 4.8; ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 section 8;

Squeglia C=0 pages 14, 16.

5. Lots or Batches

5.1 Definition of Lot. Each procedure listed in this letter requires that product be grouped into

inspection lots (the term “batch” means the same as “lot”). Each lot consists of product which has

been manufactured under essentially the same conditionsin the same production facility and at

essentially the same time. For example, if a production line is shut down for a week for maintenance,

it is wrong to consider product made before and after the shutdown as part of the same lot.

5.2 Selection of Samples from Lot. Each sample drawn from a lot must be representative of the lot.

For example, when drawing a sample of 200 pieces from a lot of 10,000 it would be improper to select

the first 200 respirators produced to use as the sample. As another example, if respirators being

produced on five machines are being combined into an inspection lot, then one- fifth of the sample

drawn must come from each machine. As noted in section 6.2 of this letter, each sample taken for

double or multiple sampling must be representative of the whole lot.

5.3 Inspection Lot vs. Other Lot Designations. The grouping of finished respirators into lots for

shipment or other purposes may differ from the grouping used for inspection. The lot number
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marked on the respirator or its container, as required by 42 CFR Section 84.33(g), does not necessarily

need to be the same number used for inspection purposes. However, the approval holder must

maintain traceability between lot numbering systems if more than one is used. For example, a

shipping lot number must be traceable to the corresponding production lot number (or numbers).

5.4 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-414 sections A5, A7.2; ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003 sections A2.4, A5,

A7.2; MIL-STD-105D sections 5, 7.2; MIL-STD-105E sections 3.12, 3.13, 4.3, 4.5.1; ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003

sections 5, 7.2; Squeglia C=0 page 2.

6. Specific Considerations for Attribute Plans

6.1 Following Arrows to Select Appropriate Sampling Plan. Where the sampling plan indicated leads to

an arrow in the table, follow the arrow to the next available sampling plan. This will point to a new

code letter row in the table with the acceptance and rejection numbers and a new corresponding

sample size to be used. 

As an example, consider sampling of a lot of 200 pieces under MIL-STD-105D for a Major A 

characteristic at inspection level II. Code letter G is selected from Table I, and an AQL of 1.0 is used.

An arrow pointing downward is contained in Table II-A for these conditions, indicating that code letter

G is not available and code letter H must be used. This means that the appropriate sample size is 50

pieces, not 32, and that the lot is accepted if there are 0 or 1 defective pieces, and rejected if there are

2 or more defectives.

6.2 Single, Double, or Multiple Sampling. Most attribute procedures include double or multiple

sampling plans (the Squeglia C=0 procedure only has single plans). Any of these options included in

the procedure may be selected. Note that each sample drawn must be representative of the entire

lot. Double and multiple sampling tend to require fewer samples when lot quality is either much

better or much worse than the AQL. Single sampling is simpler to administer and apply correctly than

double or multiple sampling and is the overwhelmingly popular choice.

As an example, consider a lot of 200 pieces under MIL-STD-105D for a Minor characteristic at

inspection level II. Code letter G is selected from Table I, and an AQL of 4.0 is used. For single

sampling, Table II-A indicates that the sample size is 32. The lot is accepted if there are 3 or fewer

defective pieces, and it isrejected if there are 4 or more defectives. For double sampling, Table III-A is

used instead and an initial sample of 20 would be drawn. The lot is accepted if there are 0 or 1 

defectives, and it is rejected if there are 4 or more defectives. If there are 2 or 3 defectives, then a 

second sample of 20 is drawn from the lot and inspected. If after both samples (totaling 40 pieces) are

inspected there are a total of 4 or fewer defectives, then the lot is accepted; if 5 or more defectives,

then the lot is rejected. Multiple sampling (Table IV-A) works in a similar fashion, except that there are

up to seven rounds of sampling to reach a decision.

6.2.1 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-105D sections 7.4, 9.5, 10.1.1, 10.1.2, 10.1.3; MIL-STD105E sections 4.5.3, 4.9.4, 4.10.1.1, 4.10.1.2, 4.10.1.3; ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 sections 7.4, 9.5,

10.1.1, 10.1.2, 10.1.3.
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7. Specific Considerations for Variable Plans

7.1 Variability Unknown vs. Variability Known. A variability unknown method should normally be

used. The variability known method may only be used when the production process is under strict

control and the process parametersinfluencing final respirator performance are well understood.

Data must be provided with the application for approval, available during on- site audits, and

continuously updated to support the standard deviation value (σ) used.

7.2 Single Specification Limit vs. Double Specification Limit. This is selected on the basis of whether

there is only one limit value (such as penetration less than or equal to 5%) or two limit values (such

as cartridge mass between 95 and 105 grams) for the characteristic.

7.3 Standard Deviation Method vs. Range Method. Either method may be selected. The standard

deviation method generally requiresfewersamples, but more complex computations. 

7.4 Form 1 vs. Form 2. The two forms are equivalent and either one may be selected. Form 2 is

recommended as it yields figures which must be calculated anyway to satisfy the switching rules.

7.5 Cross-References. See MIL-STD-414 Introduction, section A6.2; ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003

Introduction,section A6.2.

8. Scope

8.1 Limitation to Approved Quality Control Plans. Approval holders may perform additional testing

and inspection not listed in their approved quality control plans. Sampling for these additional

inspections is not required to meet the requirements set forth in 42 CFR Part 84 and this letter.

However, there must be a reasonable basis for selecting the sampling plans used.

8.2 Limitation to Required Testing. In some cases, applicants may wish to list testing and inspection in

their quality control plans above that required by NIOSH for effective quality control of respirator

performance. Sampling done for these additional inspections is not required to meet the

requirements in 42 CFR Part 84 and this letter. Additional testing should be identified clearly, such as

with the notation “additional inspection,” on documents submitted with the application to avoid delay

and requests for clarification during processing. Any such testing listed in the approved quality control

plan must be conducted as required by 42 CFR Section 84.42(c).

9. Common Errors

9.1 Selection of Inadequate Inspection Levels. The minimum acceptable inspection level is described

in section 3.2 of this letter. If a product quality control plan does not specify inspection levels, NIOSH

assumes that the level in the “normal” column of the table will be used. Use of lower levels without

specific approval, whatever the reason, is a failure to conform to NIOSH requirements and can result in

revocation of approval under 42 CFR Section 84.43(c).
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9.2 Selection of Plan Based on Desired Sample Size. It is entirely improper to choose a desired sample

size and work backwards to identify a proposed AQL and inspection level which will yield this result.

To do so reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the basis for sampling plans. The appropriate

AQL and inspection level are stated in sections 2.2 and 3.2 of this letter.

9.3 Selection of Defect Classification Based on Desired AQL. As in 9.2, the defect classification drives

the selection of AQL, not the other way around. Each defect must be classified based solely on the

definitions in 42 CFR Section 84.41(d).

9.4 Modification of AQL or Inspection Level Based on Lot Size or Other Factors. The AQL and inspection

level are chosen by the criteria in sections 2.2 and 3.2 of this letter. Approval holders are free to use

higher inspection levels if greater discrimination is desired, or to use lower (more stringent) AQLs if a 

smaller percent defective is desired. However, these should not be modified based on lot size or

inspection history, as provisions already exist to account for those factors. Changing AQL values or

inspection levels is likely to result in a statistically invalid plan.

9.5 Inappropriate Use of Reduced Inspection. As described in section 4.1 of this letter, reduced

inspection is permitted only when all conditions of the relevant procedure are met. When there are

significant delays or changes in production processes, approval holders must revert to normal

inspection. It will be considered a nonconformance during NIOSH on-site audits if the records

described in section 4.2 of this letter are not available.

9.6 Incorrect Sample Size When Following Arrowsin Sampling Tables. When using attribute sampling,

be careful when following arrows in the sampling plan tables. A different sample size must be used to

correspond with the new code letter as described in section 6.1 of this letter.

9.7 Improper Drawing of Samples. Each sample drawn must be representative of the entire lot as

described in section 5.2 of this letter. The typical method is to select samples at random. However,

other methods (such as every tenth piece) may be used so long as the sample is not biased in any way

as a result. If a lot contains multiple sublots, the sample must contain a proportional number of pieces

from each sublot.

10. References

American National Standards Institute [2003a]. Sampling procedures and tablesfor inspection by

attributes. Milwaukee, WI: American Society for Quality, American National Standard ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-

2003.

American National Standards Institute [2003b]. Sampling procedures and tablesfor inspection by

variables for percent nonconforming. Milwaukee, WI: American Society for Quality, American

National Standard ANSI/ASQ Z1.9-2003.

Squeglia NL [2008]. Zero acceptance number sampling plans. 5th ed. Milwaukee, WI: American

Society for Quality.
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U.S. Department of Defense [1957]. Sampling procedures and tables for inspection by variables for

percent defective. Washington, DC: Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Supply and Logistics),

Military Standard MIL-STD-414 (including Notice 1, 8 May 1968).

U.S. Department of Defense [1963]. Sampling procedures and tablesfor inspection by attributes.

Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Military Standard

MIL-STD-105D (including Change Notice 2, 20 March 1964).

U.S. Department of Defense [1989]. Sampling procedures and tablesfor inspection by attributes.

Washington, DC: Department of Defense, Military Standard MIL-STD-105E.

For further information regarding sampling, contact Vance Kochenderfer via electronic mail at

vck6@cdc.gov or by telephone at 412-386-4029. General inquiries may be directed to the Technology

Evaluation Branch at npptl@cdc.gov or 412-386-4000.

Sincerely yours,

Heinz W. Ahlers

Chief, Technical Evaluation Branch

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory
3/20/2018 90 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Service

Centers for Disease Control

National Institute for Occupational

Safety and Health – ALOSH

944 Chesnutt Ridge road

Morgantown, WV 26505

September 24, 1981

To All Respirator Manufacturers

1. Data on desorption of gases and vapors from the sorbent including a flow-temperature study at 

low and high temperatures and humidities: Data should be sufficient to demonstrate that the 

desorbed level of gases and vapors will not be harmful to the wearer.

2. Data on desorption in the impregnating agents used in the cartridge/canister including a flowtemperature study at low and high temperatures and humidities: Data should be sufficient to 

demonstrate safe levels of desorbed agents.

3. A list of catalytic products produced in the reaction of the sorbent with the contaminant gases 

and vapors, their concentrations and their toxicities.

4. Data on the toxicity of the impregnating agent(s) sufficient to insure that there is no creation of 

hazard to the wearer.

5. Family of breakthrough time curves and low and high temperatures, humidities and 

concentrations.

6. Data on the effects of the commonly found industrial interferences which could impair the ability 

of the respirator to protect the wearer (i.e., decreased service life).

We recognize the above list is by no means all-inclusive. This is our attempt to itemize the types of 

information needed in order to determine the intrinsic safety of the respirator. All other information 

regarding wearer safety would aid NIOSH in their evaluation and would be welcomed in the application.

For further technical information regarding these requirements, please contact the Testing and 

Certification Branch.

Sincerely yours,

Nancy Bollinger

Supervisory Chemist

Air-Purifying Respirator Section

Testing and Certification Branch

Division of Safety Research
3/20/2018 91 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Public Health

Service

Centers for Disease

Control and 

Prevention (CDC)

National Institute for

Occupational Safety and 

Health (NIOSH)

National Personal

Protective Technology 

Laboratory (NPPTL)

P.O. Box 18070 

Pittsburgh, PA 15236-0070 

Phone: 412-386-5200 

Fax: 412-386-4089 

January 17, 2008

LETTER TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES

SUBJECT: Colors for Respirator Element Labeling

The color coding requirements of labels for canisters and cartridges as a means forsecondary 

identification are referenced in paragraphs 84.113 and 84.193 of 42 CFR 84, respectively. The

standard incorporated by reference is ANSI K-13.1 - 1973: American National Standard for 

identification of air-purifying respirator canisters and cartridges. It has been communicated to

NIOSH that standard samples of colors specified for respirator labeling are not available. This 

letter includes information for the colors specified in 42 CFR 84 relevant to accessing reference 

colors. Equivalent designations for these colors in several color-defining systems are provided in 

Tables 1 and 3, as an attachment. Acceptable tolerances for each specified color are also 

provided in Table 2, as an attachment. Some resources for obtaining standards, reference colors 

and translation into other color systems are available in the additionalnotes.

Any questions concerning this letter should be directed to the National PersonalProtective

Technology Laboratory, Policy and Standards Development Branch at 412-386-5200.

Sincerely,

Jonathan V. Szalajda

Branch Chief, Policy and Standards Development National Personal Protective Technology

Laboratory
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Table 1 - Colors Specified for Secondary Designation of Air-Purifying Elementsa

a Refer to ANSI K13.1-1973 and ANSI Z88.7-2001 for specific designations

b Values were obtained through “ask a question” at

http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx. CIE equivalents for CIE illuminant D50 

were also provided and are included in Table3.

c Obtained from ASTM D 1535-07 Table 2 for Munsell Notations in column 4. Another source is

http://www.cis.rit.edu/mcsl/online/munsell_data/all.dat . Values are for CIE illuminant C-2o.

d sRGB, scaled to 255, estimates obtained from calculator available at www.easyrgb.com using CIE

values in this table.

e 42 CFR 84.179 (b) (3) states the color, magenta, which is considered equivalent to purple 

e.g. NIOSH TB Respiratory Protection Program in Health Care Facilities, DHHS (NIOSH) 

Publication No. 99-143 p. 52.

ISCC-NBS colors assigned in ANSI K13.1 Munsell 

Notations 

assigned in 

ANSI/AIHA 

Z88.7-2001

Equivalent designations for centroid color in other colorsystems

Color 

Assigned

Centroid Color 

Name

Centroi

d Color 

Number

Nearest

PANTONE

® Color b

CIE c RGB d

Y x y R G B

Red Vivid red 11 5R 4/14 200 C 11.70 0.5711 0.3057 188 25 55

Orange Vivid orange 48 5YR 7/14 1375 C 41.99 0.5252 0.4168 255 144 17

Brown Deep

Yellowish 

brown

75 10YR 3/6 1405 C 6.391 0.4842 0.4712 94 67 0

Yellow Vivid yellow 82 2.5Y 8/14 116 C 57.62 0.4842 0.4712 255 189 0

Olive Light olive 106 7.5Y 5/6 105 C 19.27 0.4199 0.4551 138 121 45

Green Vivid green 139 2.5G 5/10 356 C 19.27 0.2565 0.4705 0 140 82

Blue Strong blue 178 2.5PB 4/10 301 C 11.70 0.1805 0.1888 0 101 170

Purple Strong purple 218 7.5P 4/8 259 C 11.70 0.3066 0.2228 129 77 136

White White 263 N 9.5/

Cool Gray 1C 87.8 0.3100 0.3150 247 238 252

Gray Medium gray 265 N 5.5/ 423 C 23.95 0.3100 0.3150 138 133 141

Black Black 267 N 0.75/ Black C 0.86 0.3100 0.3150 24 23 25
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Table 2 - Ranges for Colors specified in ANSI K13.1—1973

ISCC-NBS colors with ranges in MunsellNotation

Centroid Color 

Number

Centroid Munsell

Notationa Range b

Hue Value Chroma

11 5R 3.9 /15.4

1-7R 

“

“

7R-9R 

“

≤ 3.5

3.5 ← c 5.5

5.5 ← 6.5

≤ 3.5

3.5 ← 4.5

≥ 11

≥ 13

≥ 15

≥ 11

≥ 13

48 4.1YR 6.5 /15 2-7YR ≥ 4.5 ≥ 14

75 8.8YR 3.1 /5 8YR-1Y ≤ 3.5 ≥ 5

82 3.3Y 8 /14.3 1-7Y ≥ 5.5 ≥ 11

106 8.2Y 5.1 /5.6

4-7Y

7Y-9Y 

“

9Y-2GY 

“

4.5-5.5

4.5-5.5

5.5←6.5

4.5-5.5

5.5←6.5

≥ 3

≥ 3

3-5

≥ 3

3-5

139 3.2G 4.9 /11.1 3-9G 1.2-8.6 ≥ 11

178 2.9PB4.1 /10.4 9B-5PB

5-7PB

3-5.5 9.-13

218 6.5P 4.3 /9.2 3-9P 3.5-5.5 9.-13

263 2.5PB 9.5 /0.2 all ≥ 8.5 ≤ 0.5

265 3.3GY 5.4 /0.1 all 4.5-6.5 ≤ 0.5

267 2.5PB 0.8 /0 all ≤ 2.5 ≤ 0.5

a Values were obtained fromhttp://www.anthus.com/Colors/Cent.html. 

b Ranges were taken from charts in Chapter 13, Color: Universal Language and Dictionary ofNames, by K. 

L. Kelly and D. B. Judd. National Bureau of Standards, Spec. Publ. 440, Dec.1976.

c An arrowhead indicates boundary not included in range: i.e. 3.5 < value ≤5.5.
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Table 3 - CIE Equivalents for Pantone® Colors given in Table 1 

Nearest

PANTONE®

Color

CIE

Y 

D5

0 

x 

D5

0 

y 

D5

0 

200 C 12.36 0.5985 0.3179

1375 C 44.12 0.5387 0.4198

1405 C 6.69 0.5039 0.4384

116 C 60.36 0.4957 0.4705

105 C 20.09 0.4405 0.4680

356 C 19.84 0.2785 0.5107

301 C 11.51 0.1988 0.2347

259 C 11.87 0.3500 0.2623

Cool Gray 1C 87.80 0.3457 0.3585

423 C 23.98 0.3457 0.3585

Black C 0.86 0.3457 0.3585
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICE Public Health Service

Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention (CDC)

National Institute for Occupational 

Safety and Health (NIOSH)

 National Personal Protective 

 Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)

 P.O. Box 18070 

 Pittsburgh, PA 15236

Phone: 412-386-4000 

 Fax: 412-386-4051

 April 7, 2005

LETTER TO ALL RESPIRATOR MANUFACTURERS

Subject: Clarification of Supplier and Subcontractor Relationships

Background

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH or the Institute) approval holders have

established relationships with suppliers and subcontractors who are manufacturing ,components

or subassemblies for approved respirator configurations. A growing number of approval holders wish

to ship NIOSH-Approved respirators directly from a subcontractor to distribution centers or

customers, and replacement parts directly to a repair center. The Institute has identified two

possible approval holder relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.

Listed below are the responsibilities and requirements NIOSH has established for these relationships.

Definitions

Approval Holder: The party ofrecord to whom certificates of approval have been issued. The approval holder

maintains responsibility for, and control of, product design, performance, configuration management,

manufacture, quality, and support.

Supplier:

A supplier produces components orsubassemblies under their own quality system for delivery to the

approval holder. The approval holder confirms the acceptability of incoming goods by accepting a 

Certificate of Compliance and inspecting incoming goods to ensure compliance with all product

design, performance, and Quality Assurance criteria (drawings and engineering control). The approval

holder releases the product for distribution and sale.

Subcontractor:

The approval holder may authorize a subcontractor to release NIOSH- approved respirators directly

from their facility for distribution and sale, or to release components and subassemblies directly to

an authorized repair center. The approval holder maintains responsibility for, and control of,

product design, performance, configuration management, manufacture, quality, and support by

maintaining influence over, and active involvement in, the subcontractor's quality system. As such,

the subcontractor's facility is considered to be a manufacturing site forthe approval holder.
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Page 2 -Letter to All Respirator Manufacturers

Subcontractor Relationship Responsibilities

The approval documentation on file atNIOSH must demonstrate thatthe following criteria

have been met for NIOSH recognition of a subcontractor.

- As with all otherNIOSH approvals, the approval holder maintains responsibility for all 

aspects ofthe approval: control over product drawings, material specifications, parts

lists, andmanufacturing processes; control overthe requirements forfinal inspection

and testing; and approval of any changesto the above.

- The approval holder must assure that a subcontractor has demonstrated the ability to

supply product that consistently meets the established release criteria, and has

adequate quality systems and procedures in place to assure product quality on an

ongoing basis.

- The approval holder must establish andmaintain active involvement and influence over

subcontractor quality systems. This can be demonstrated in many different ways. One

example ofthisinvolvement and influence can be exhibited by participating inthe

subcontractor's management reviews (as defined by ISO 9001, 2000, section 5.6)

required by the subcontractor's Quality System. A second example is participation inthe

subcontractor's Material ReviewBoard.

- The approval holder's methods formaintaining active involvement and influence over

their subcontractor's quality system needs to be documented in a plan or procedure

that suitsthe individual situation and manufacturing complexity ofthe secured goods.

This plan or procedure must be formally submitted toNIOSH.

- The approval holder will maintain copies of subcontractor quality records that

demonstrate compliance with NIOSH performance requirements. It is important to

assure that, in the event of a broken relationship, both the Approval Holder and NIOSH

have continued access to those records.

- Allsubmissionsrelated to the approval must be made by an authorized representative

of the approval holder. The subcontractor's Quality Manual and related quality system

documents must represent howthe approval holder establishes andmaintains active

involvement and influence overthe subcontractor's quality system. Thisinformation

must be specifically indicated and documented aspart of a Quality Assurance

Application. As with all Quality Manuals, a process must be established and followed for

ongoing resubmission ofthe Quality Manual and related quality system documents inthe

event ofsignificant changes, and on a periodic basis, per NIOSH requirements.

- All subcontractor relationships must belisted as an approval holder's manufacturing site, 

with a designated point of contact, on the NIOSH Standard Application Form (SAF)for

directshipment fromthe subcontractorto be acceptable undertheNIOSH Approval.
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Page 3 - LettertoAllRespiratorManufacturers

- All manufacturing sites for NIOSH-Approved products, including subcontractor facilities, 

will be audited by NIOSH on a regular basis. The Institute will not contact the

subcontractor directly, but will always work through the approval holder's designated

representative for the specific manufacturing site.

Sincerely yours,

Heinz W. Ahlers 

Acting Branch Chief 

Respirator Branch

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory
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Definitions 

The following definitions are provided for clarification of terms used in these procedures:

Accessory - An item provided with a respirator that does not affect the respirator’s ability to meet the 

requirements of 42 CFR Part 84. The approval remains effective whether or not the accessory is used.

Alternate Contact - A contact designated by the prospective approval holder that can interface with 

NIOSH regarding applications and other NIOSH business such as audits and product investigations. 

Amended Application - An application submitted at NIOSH’s request that shows changes to correct an 

inaccuracy detected during the NIOSH application evaluation. The Applicant-Assigned Reference 

Number (AAR#) and Task Number (TN) will remain the same. 

 

Applicant - The individual, partnership, company, corporation, association or organization that designs, 

manufactures, assembles, or controls the assembly of a respirator and who seeks to obtain a certificate 

of approval for such respirator.

Applicant-Assigned Reference Number (AAR#) - A unique identifying number of the applicant’s 

choosing. The number must start with the three character manufacturer’s code. The AAR# must never 

be reused.

Approval - A certificate or formal document issued by the Institute (in this instance NIOSH) stating that 

an individual respirator or combination of respirators has met the minimum requirements of this part

(42 CFR 84), and that the applicant is authorized to use and attach an approval label to any respirator, 

respirator container, or instruction card for any respirator manufactured or assembled in conformance 

with the plans and specifications upon which the approval was based, as evidence of such approval.

Approval Holder - The entity to which a certificate or formal document has been issued by NIOSH 

stating that an individual respirator or combination of respirators has met the minimum requirements of 

42 CFR Part 84. The approval holder is authorized to use and attach an approval label to any respirator, 

respirator container, or instruction card for any respirator manufacturers or respirator assembled in 

conformance with the plans and specifications upon which the approval was based.

Approval Labels - The label that is attached to the respirator, container, instructions, or packaging once 

approved by NIOSH. All major subassemblies in the approved respirator configuration must be on the 

approval label. Accessories may be listed on the approval label, but are not required.

Assembly Matrix - A diagram of all major subassemblies and accessories that apply to approvals in a 

respirator family. Components are identified by category, description, drawing number and revision, 

part number, and applicability to the listed approvals.

Authorized Representative - The person responsible for completing and submitting the Standard 

Application Form to NIOSH. This person can be an employee of the prospective approval holder or an 

independent consultant hired by the company to complete the Standard Application Form. Designated 
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by prospective approval holder to interface with NIOSH regarding applications and other NIOSH business 

such as audits, and product investigations. 

Belt Mounted - An air-purifying canister, chemical cartridge, or particulate filter or an air-supplied 

regulating valve or regulator that is mounted on the user’s belt with an adaptor.

Canister - A gas or vapor removing component which meets the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84, subpart 

I, Tables 5, 6, and 7 only. Canisters may incorporate particulate filters and can be used for escape from 

immediately dangerous to life or health environments, which sufficient oxygen. Usually approved with 

under schedule 14G respirators.

Cartridge - A gas or vapor removing component which meets the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84, 

subpart L, Table 11. Cartridges may incorporate particulate filters. Cartridges cannot be used in 

immediately dangerous to life or health environments and are usually part of 84A or 23C approval 

schedules.

Chest and Back Mounted - Canisters fastened to a user’s body, either on the back or chest, that have a 

breathing tube running from the canister to the facepiece inlet. 

Chin Mounted - A canister, cartridge, or filter mounted on the full facepiece. Chin-style gas masks 

typically have a medium-sized (250-500 cm3) canister rigidly attached to a full facepiece.

Combination Particulate Filtering and Gas/Vapor Removing - Cartridges and canisters that protect the 

user from both particulates and gases and vapors.

Common Assembly Matrix - An assembly matrix (diagram) that contains all of the information for a 

series of applications. A common assembly matrix should be found in the last application of the series. 

Also, a suggested processing order and an explanation as to how the applications interrelate must be in 

the Approval History, if applicable. In addition, assembly matrices should not contain information for 

future submissions. (See “Series of Applications”). 

Component - Essential parts to a respirator that provide function and effective performance of the 

product. (See “Major Subassemblies”). 

Controlled Document - Documents signed, released, and placed in an applicant’s document control 

system.

Correlation Testing - Testing conducted to compare an applicant’s test equipment and results to 

NIOSH’s. The applicant must submit a new application with the wording “Correlation testing only; 

respirator is not submitted for approval” in the “Reason for Application” section. 
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Critical Characteristic - A feature that, if not manufactured properly, could have an adverse impact on 

the safety or health of the user. 100% testing or inspection is required prior to shipment to ensure 

conformance with all technical requirements of the approval. 

As defined in 42 CFR Part 84: “Critical” A defect that judgement and experience indicate is likely to 

result in a condition immediately hazardous to life or health for individuals using or depending upon the 

respirator.

Critical User Instructions - Instructions that are important to operate a particular respirator. For 

instance, checking the service life indicator on a CCER is a critical user instruction.

Delist - Respirator listing is removed from the Certified Equipment List when NIOSH approval is 

rescinded or revoked.

Design - The overall specification for the respirator that includes materials, physical envelope and shape, 

manufacturing processes, and Quality Assurance requirements.

Discontinued - See obsolete.

Exploded-View Drawing - A drawing of the complete respirator assembly showing all major 

subassemblies and accessories and their proximity to one another.

Family of Products - A group or series of respirators sharing a common major subassembly, such as a 

facepiece or regulator. The applicant determines the basis for the respirator families. 

Facepiece - A respirator component designed to provide a gas-tight or dust-tight fit with the face and 

may include headbands, valves, and connections for canisters, cartridges, filters, or respirable gas 

source.

Facepiece Mounted - A canister, cartridge, or filter mounted on the facepiece. 

Features - Descriptors that relate to the makeup, shape, proportions, outward appearance, prominent 

characteristics, or qualities of the part, but are not separate components or devices. Do not list features 

on the approval label (e.g., “super-soft face seal”).

Filter - A particulate removing component of a respirator which meets the requirements of

42 CFR Part 84, subparts K or KK. 

Field-Replaceable - Any component, major subassembly, or accessory (e.g., cartridges, hoses, 

regulators) that can be replaced by the user following the manufacturer’s User Instructions without any 

special knowledge, skills, abilities, or equipment. 

Filtering Facepiece - An N, R, or P class particulate respirator where the entire facepiece is composed of 

the filtering media. The unit may have an exhalation valve, but has no replaceable parts. 
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Full Facepiece - A type of facepiece that covers a user from the hairline to below the chin. 

Gas/Vapor Removing Respirator - A type of respirator that provides protection against specific gases 

and vapors.

Half-Mask - A type of facepiece that fits over the nose and under the chin and is used to protect users 

from toxic materials.

Hardware - Regular production units submitted for approval must be the result of actual manufacturing 

processes.

Hazardous Atmosphere - Any atmosphere that contains toxic or disease producing gas, vapor, dust, 

fume, mist, or pesticide, that is either immediately or not immediately dangerous to life or health. Also, 

any oxygen-deficient atmosphere.

Helmet - A rigid protective headgear incorporated into the design of a respirator that covers the user’s 

head and possibly the user’s neck. 

Helmet Mounted - A canister, cartridge, or filter mounted on the helmet. 

Hood - A light, flexible device covering only the head and neck, or head, neck, and shoulders of a user.

Hood Mounted - A canister, cartridge, or filter mounted on the hood. 

Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health - Conditions that pose an immediate threat to life or health or 

conditions that pose an immediate threat of severe exposure to contaminants, such as radioactive 

materials, which are likely to have adverse cumulative or delayed effects on health.

Inactive - See obsolete.

Intrinsically Safe - Not capable of releasing enough electrical or thermal energy under normal or 

abnormal conditions to cause ignition of a flammable mixture such as methane or natural gas or air 

comprised of an easily ignitable composition.

Major Subassemblies - Those components or subassemblies (1) that are essential to the respirator’s 

function and effective performance; (2) that affect the respirator’s performance or design; and (3) which 

are field-replaceable items. 

Manufacturer’s Code - A unique three-letter code assigned to each approval holder by NIOSH.

Model Number - An identifier of a product given by the manufacturer. A model number is not required 

to identify each unique configuration. 
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Mouthpiece - A respirator component that is held in the teeth with a clamp to close the nostrils that 

provides a gas-tight or dust-tight fit with the mouth. 

New Design - An entirely new or substantially modified respirator, component, or arrangement of 

components (some of which may have been used on previously approved respirators) which NIOSH has 

not evaluated in this configuration.

Not Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health - Any hazardous atmosphere which may produce physical 

discomfort immediately, chronic poisoning after repeated exposure, or acute adverse physiological 

symptoms after prolonged exposure.

Nuisance Level Contaminants - Contaminants where the concentration in the atmosphere is below the 

established PEL (OSHA permissible exposure limit) or REL (NIOSH recommended exposure limit), 

whichever is lower. Nuisance level protection capability is not evaluated by NIOSH. 

Obsolete - A respirator is considered obsolete when it is no longer manufactured or supported by the 

approval holder. However the NIOSH approval is still listed and the respirators can still be used until the 

units can no longer be maintained in an approved configuration. Approval remains active and is shown 

in the CEL as obsolete.

Part Number - The unique number referenced by users to identify respirator parts. The identifying 

number located on the component must match the part number shown on all labels (abbreviated and 

full) and on the assembly matrix. The location of the part number on the component hardware must be 

shown on the drawings. Applicants sometimes refer to the part number as catalog number, 

manufacturer number, production component number, among other terms. 

Particulate Filtering Respirator - A type of respirator that protects users against solid particles or liquids 

such as dusts, fumes, and mists by trapping the particles with its fibers. The filters are classified by 

NIOSH as N, R, or P accompanied by either 95 (95%), 99 (99%), or 100 (99.97%) to indicate filtration 

levels.

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) - An OSHA permissible exposure concentration limit based on health 

data evaluation. Users working in contaminate levels below this concentration are not required by 

OSHA to have respiratory protection.

Pre-filter - An accessory item situated in front of the approved filter that removes coarse particles but 

does not meet 42 CFR Part 84 criteria for particulate filters. A pre-filter is a filter often used prior to an 

N-, R-, or P-series filter or cartridge. Pre-filters are not classified as N-, -R, or P-series filters. When prefilters are used, the complete assembly must meet the resistance requirements of 42 CFR Part 84. Prefilters may be listed on the approval labels. If shown on the approval label, pre-filters must be listed as 

an accessory and designated as a pre-filter.

Pre-Submission Test Data - Respiratory performance test data must accompany each application and 

must specify components used for test configuration by part number, show units of measure for all test 
3/20/2018 103 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

data (matching 42 CFR Part 84 criteria), and submit copies of actual test data with all results and 

conclusions. 

Performance - The actual operational performance of the respirator with respect to the applicable 

regulations and design parameters. The respirator must meet or exceed the requirements of the NIOSH 

regulations under 42 CFR Part 84 when evaluated against NIOSH standard test procedures (STPs) as 

appropriate to the type of respirator. 

Primary Contact - The person designated by the prospective approval holder to receive all official NIOSH 

correspondence, including but not limited to approval and denial letters, manufacturers meeting 

notices, and notices seeking input for standards development. If this person changes, it is the 

responsibility of the manufacturer to notify NIOSH, in writing, of the person taking over this 

responsibility. The preference is for the Primary or Alternate Contact to make the notification to NIOSH 

prior to the change. Alternatively, a corporate officer may notify NIOSH.

Private Label - A respirator labeled as belonging to an organization that is not the approval holder. 

Private-labeled respirators are assigned the same TC number issued to the approval holder for the 

original product. Only the approval holder can apply for a private label.

Private Packaging - A respirator that is repackaged and sold by a company that is not the approval 

holder. All part numbers, model numbers, and approval labels must be the same as those approved by 

NIOSH. However, the packaging may reference the packaging company instead of the approval holder. 

The approval holder is responsible for ensuring that private packaging arrangements do not mislead the 

end user. 

Product Quality Control Plan (PQP) - Summarizes the manufacturing, inspection, test operations, and 

applicable documents used in regular production of a specific respirator family.

 

Product Trade Name - A name that uniquely identifies a respirator or respirator family. A product trade 

name is required because of the way approval holders market and users reference certified respirators. 

The product trade name must not imply use for a specific hazard.

Protection - A different type of protection is defined as protection against a different atmospheric 

contaminant (e.g., particulates, chlorine gas, ammonia gas, mercury vapor, etc.). A different level of 

protection is defined by a change in the type of facepiece (half-mask, full facepiece) or mouthpiece, 

filtering efficiency (such as N95 as opposed to N100), and/or the air supply capability (e.g., pressure, 

duration, demand flow, continuous flow, etc.).

Prototype - Defined as a respirator or component that (a) involves a new design produced using rapid

prototyping methods, temporary tooling, non-production tooling, or regular production tooling in a new 

fashion, and (b) has demonstrated by the applicant’s pre-testing to meet 42 CFR Part 84 minimum 

design and performance requirements. Respirators may not be submitted for approval while in this 

defined prototype stage (limited production tooling and processes). NIOSH will request samples made 

on regular production tooling and production quality control (Ref. 84.30 (c)) if the approval holder 
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request approval. For non-approval prototype testing use a new application form and state “Prototype 

Testing Only - Respirator is Not Submitted for Approval” in the “Reason for Application.”

Quality Assurance (QA) - A planned and systemic pattern of all activities necessary to provide 

confidence that all respirators will perform satisfactorily in operation.

Quality Assurance (QA) Manual - Documents the approval holder’s quality systems including the 

organizational structure, responsibilities, procedures, processes, and resources for implementing quality 

management and policy. Hard copies with original approval signatures need submitted and will be 

retained in NIOSH’s files.

Quarter-Mask - A type of facepiece that covers the mouth and nose where the lower sealing surface 

rests between the mouth and chin. Quarter-masks are most commonly found on dust and mist 

respirators. 

Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) - A NIOSH recommended exposure concentration limit based on 

health data evaluation. Users working in contaminate levels below this concentration are not required 

by OSHA to have respiratory protection.

Regular Production Unit - A respirator or component made on regular production tooling, or that is 

identical to units made using regular production tooling, and is not made with any operations that will 

not be included in regular production.

Rescission - The approval holder voluntarily requests the certificate of approval be withdrawn for a 

product. The approval is no longer valid. Respirators in the field are no longer NIOSH-Approved. 

Respirators are not listed in the CEL.

Respirator - Any device designed to provide the wearer with respiratory protection against inhalation of 

a hazardous atmosphere.

Resubmission of an Application - Resubmission of a previously denied application. Resubmitted 

applications receive a new task number (TN) and are placed at the end of the application processing 

queue. All documentation must be updated to the current dates and revision levels.

Revocation - NIOSH reserves the right to revoke, for cause, any certificate of approval issued pursuant to 

the provisions of 42 CFR Part 84. Such causes include, but are not limited to, misuse of approval labels 

and markings, misleading advertising, and failure to maintain or cause to be maintained the quality 

control requirements of the certificate of approval. The approval is no longer valid. Respirators in the 

field are no longer NIOSH-Approved. Respirators are not listed in the CEL.

SEI Retrofit - An update or correction to a suspected performance or design issue to a self-contained 

breathing apparatus (SCBA) that is approved by NIOSH and the Safety Equipment Institute. This type of 

SCBA is approved jointly by NIOSH and SEI for use in firefighting operations. 
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Series of Applications - A series of associated applications submitted at the same time (in the same 

bundle or package). A common assembly matrix that contains all of the information for the submitted 

series is located in the last application of the series. Assembly matrices must not contain information 

regarding future submissions. 

Service Life Plan - A document that contains information on the reliability engineering methodology and 

appropriate service life dates that users may rely on for determining safe and reliable performance of 

the respirator under intended use conditions.

Simplified Drawings - Exploded-view and major subassembly drawings that accompany the application. 

Any additional drawings necessary for clarification of a major subassembly or part may also be included.

Standard Application Form (SAF) - The electronic form used to submit respirator approval requests to 

NIOSH.

Subcontractor - The entity contracted to produce products under the direction/oversite of the 

prospective approval holder.

Supplier - The entity that produces components or subassemblies under their own quality system for 

delivery to the approval holder.

User Instructions - Detailed instructions provided to the user that describes how to properly inspect, 

don, and use the product.
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ACRONYMS

AAR# - Applicant-Assigned Reference Number

ABMS - Automated Breathing Metabolic Simulator

AP - Air-Purifying 

APRS - Air-Purifying Respirator Section

AQL - Acceptable Quality Level

AS - Air-Supplied

ASR - Air-Supplied Respirator (See SAR)

BMS - Breathing Metabolic Simulator 

CAR - Corrective Action Request

CBRN - Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear

CCER - Closed-Circuit Escape Respirator

CEL - Certified Equipment List

CFR - Code of Federal Regulations

CGA - Compressed Gas Association

CV&SDB - Conformity Verification and Standards Development Branch

EBSS - Emergency Breathing Support System

EIN - Employer Identification Number

ESLI - End-of-Service-Life Indicator

EOSTI - End-of-Service-Time Indicator

ETB - Evaluation and Testing Branch

HHS - Department of Health and Human Services

HSBG - Human Subject Breathing Gas
3/20/2018 107 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

IDLH - Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health

LRPL - Laboratory Respirator Protection Level

MSHA - Mine Safety and Health Administration (Department of Labor)

NFPA - National Fire Protection Association

NIOSH - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

NPPTL - National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory

OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Department of Labor)

PAPR - Powered Air-Purifying Respirator

PEL - Permissible Exposure Limit (OSHA)

PQP - Product Quality Control Plan

QA - Quality Assurance

REL - Recommended Exposure Limit (NIOSH)

RPD - Respiratory Protective Devices

RPU - Regular Production Unit

SAF - Standard Application Form

SAP - Standard Application Procedure

SAR - Supplied-Air Respirator

SCBA - Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

SCP - Standard Conditioning Procedure

SCSR - Self-Contained Self-Rescuer

SOP - Standard Operating Procedure

STP - Standard Test Procedure
3/20/2018 108 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

TC Number - Testing and Certification Number; the NIOSH approval number designation

TN - Task Number; a unique number assigned by NIOSH to each application
3/20/2018 109 PAPR and CBRN PAPR

Revision History

Date Section Action

15-Dec-17

Section 1

1.1.9

Submitting

Test Samples

Added: All sample components must be identified and labeled 

with the corresponding part number as listed on the assembly 

matrix.

15-Dec-17

Section 1

1.2.2

Extension of

Approval 

Application

Added second paragraph below the second drawing: Any 

changes to NIOSH-approved records (documents) must be 

submitted to NIOSH. This includes any minor changes to any 

document that is part of the approval record. These changes 

should be submitted for an extension of approval at your earliest 

convenience. NOTE: Documents that are not up-to-date in the 

NIOSH records could be identified during a site audit and result in 

a non-conformance.

15-Dec-17

Section 1

1.2.3

Quality 

Assurance 

Approval 

Application

First bullet. Changed from: Used for new or updated Quality 

Assurance (QA) Manuals only. 

To: Current NIOSH approval holders may use this type of 

application to submit new or updated Quality Assurance (QA) 

Manuals. This type of application is limited to current approval 

holders.

15-Dec-17

Section 2

9 (Section C.9)

Reason for 

Application

Third paragraph. Added: Also, list the Corrective Action Request 

(CAR) number associated with the application.

15-Dec-17

Section 2

2 (Section 

C.11)

Description of 

Respirator

After the 10th entry "If the respirator contains electrical 

components, have the components been approved by MSHA for 

intrinsic safety? Added: NOTE: If this respirator is to be used in 

underground mines and has electronics, MSHA intrinsic safety 

approval must be received prior to submitting to NIOSH.

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.1

Quality 

Assurance 

Documentation

Second paragraph. Third sentence. Added: in a separate QA 

application,

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.5

Powered AirPurifying 

Respirators

Added: For CBRN PAPRs, tests 1, 3, 4, 7, 12, 14 (as configured), 25 

and 30 (for hoods only) may also be performed.
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15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.5 Powered 

Air-Purifying 

Respirators

Deleted: Do not issue a single payment (check or pay.gov) for 

multiple invoices. Separate payments (check or pay.gov) are 

required for each application invoice received. Include the AAR# 

on the payment so it is properly credited.Added: A single 

payment (check or pay.gov) for multiple invoices is allowed. 

Include the AAR#s for each associated application on the check or 

the pay.gov receipt so they will be properly credited. Separate 

payments (check or pay.gov) will also be allowed for each 

application invoice. For application fee invoices, included the TN 

number(s) associated with the payment. To indicate a final 

payment for a specific application(s), add an -F after the TN 

number(s) (TN-nnnn-F).

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.6

Annual Fixed 

Certification 

Fees Deleted: Only one application per check.

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.12

List of NIOSH 

Cautions and 

Limitations

Special Cautions and Limitations Notes. For K. Added: for 

formaldehyde.

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.12

List of NIOSH 

Cautions and 

Limitations

Added sentence to last paragraph: If the respirator is for 

underground use, MSHA intrinsic safety approval must be received 

prior to submitting to NIOSH.

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.13

Private 

Labeling Third paragraph. Added: A specific section titled "S-Special ..."

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.14

User 

Instructions

First paragraph. Second sentence. Changed to read: User 

Instructions must be listed and are required to be listed on the 

assembly matrix for Supplied-Air Respirators. 

12-Mar-18

Section 3

3.16

Summary of 

Related 

Documents

Added at the end: In addition to the application file, the 

manufacturer must submit related project documents. These 

documents must be in English and saved with the following filenaming conventions. Any files created in a language other than 

English will be returned unprocessed.

15-Dec-17

Section 3

3.17

File Naming 

Conventions

Added an additional bullet to end of bulleted list: NIOSH will only 

accept single documents under a single filename. Multiple 

documents under a single filename will not be accepted and the 

application may be denied.
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15-Dec-17

Section 4

4.3

Denial Prior to 

Assignment of 

a Task Number Eleventh bullet: Added: along with MSHA intrinsic safety

15-Dec-17 Section 

66.1Test 

Samples Item 9. Added: as listed on the assembly matrix.

15-Dec-17 Section 6

6.1

Labels Item 28. Added: applicable

15-Dec-17 Section 6

6.5

Private Label 

Checklist Item 4. Added: applicable

20-Mar-18 Section 7

7.3 a

Example of an 

Assembly 

Matrix for a 

PAPR (non 

CBRN) Table. Added a row to the table.

20-Mar-18 Section 7

7.3 b

Example of an 

Assembly 

Matrix for a 

CBRN PAPR Table. Added a row to the table.

15-Dec-17 Appendix

Acronyms Added: CAR – Corrective Action Request