PPE CASE

Personal Protective Equipment Conformity Assessment Studies and Evaluations

Point-of-Use Assessment for Self-Contained Self-Rescuers 

Randomly Sampled from Mining Districts: Second Phase

Sample Period: January 2012 to June 2013

Gary Walbert and William Monaghan

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory

Abstract 

The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)1, a laboratory in the National 

Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the Mine Safety and Health Administration 

(MSHA) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania have undertaken a study to 

evaluate the long-term field performance and reliability of selfcontained self-rescuer (SCSR) units deployed in U.S. underground 

coal mines in accordance with federal regulation 30 CFR2 § 75.1714. 

This ongoing project provides performance, reliability, and user

maintenance compliance data on field deployed SCSR units. 

This report presents findings from the second phase SCSR long-term 

random (LTR2) testing conducted between January 2012 and June

2013. Prior to collection, MSHA provided a copy of their SCSR 

inventory from which NIOSH compiled a statistically significant 

random list of 719 SCSR units. From this random list, NIOSH targeted

536 SCSRs for collection. NIOSH returned 379 SCSRs to the 

laboratory for testing when the collection effort ended for LTR2. 

NIOSH subsequently tested the 377 SCSR units that passed the 

manufacturers’ recommended visual inspection using an automated 

breathing and metabolic simulator (ABMS). The tests performed in 

this study are not approval tests; however, a certified product investigation process (CPIP) may be 

opened if the products perform poorly during testing at NPPTL, to determine the impact of observed 

performance degradation or nonconformance of a deployed SCSR.

 

1 A list of acronyms and abbreviations is available in Appendix A. 2 Code of Federal Regulations. See CFR in references.

NIOSH’s point-of-use 

assessments for selfcontained self-rescuers 

(SCSRs) found that mine 

operators are largely 

compliant with SCSR 

manufacturer-specified 

requirements and the 

devices tested appear to be 

sufficiently designed for 

mining use conditions.
2 

 

 

Nine of the targeted SCSR units failed the manufacturer’s recommended visual inspection either at the 

mine or at NPPTL. LTR2 sample test results suggest that SCSR units that pass the manufacturer’s

recommended inspection criteria and breathing and metabolic simulation (BMS) testing can be relied 

upon to provide life support for mine escape. Although deployment in the mining environment caused 

a slight degradation in performance for one manufacturer’s SCSR tested during LTR2, all have retained 

their ability to preserve life in the event of an emergency. It was not necessary to open a CPIP audit for 

SCSR nonconformance issues in this phase of the Long-Term Field Evaluation (LTFE) study.

NIOSH was successful in collecting the target goal of at least 100 of each NIOSH-approved SCSR model 

deployed in United States underground coal mines during the LTR2 collection phase. This ensured

retaining the desired statistical validity of the study.

Introduction 

Coal mine operators in the United States are required to make a self-contained self-rescuer (SCSR)

available to each underground coal miner. Additional SCSRs are required to be cached on working 

settings and in outby escape ways. Title 30 Code of Federal Regulations (30 CFR) § 75.1714 requires 

that each person in an underground coal mine wear, carry, or have ready access to a device approved 

by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Mine Safety and Health 

Administration (MSHA). The device must provide respiratory protection with an oxygen (O2) source for 

up to one hour. In some mines, shorter duration SCSRs are worn, while cached one-hour units provide 

the additional duration. SCSRs are sealed for protection from the underground mining environment. 

The sealed case protects the apparatus from environmental and physical damage, but makes it difficult 

to inspect the unit for damage. Unlike open-circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus employed in 

fire services and general industry, no functional assessment can be made prior to actual use. For these 

reasons, the NIOSH National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL), in cooperation with 

MSHA, conducts an ongoing, long-term field evaluation (LTFE) of SCSRs deployed in underground coal 

mines to assess their reliability and performance. 

The objective of the LTFE program is to evaluate how well SCSRs endure the underground coal mining 

environment with regard to both physical damage and the effects of aging. In order to protect miners’ 

safety, mines must conduct regular inspections of deployed units to ensure readiness. The criteria for 

these inspections are established by the manufacturers and include damage assessment of specific 

components by either visual inspection or non-destructive testing. Among the visual inspection criteria 

are evaluation of heat and humidity indicators or pressure gauges, verification of the service time date, 

assurance that the case seal is intact, and visual assessment of physical indications of wear or damage. 

All users must comply with the manufacturer’s specified conditions for storage and use. SCSRs failing 

inspection, or not in compliance with the conditions of storage and use, no longer meet the 

NIOSH/MSHA approval and must be removed from service. 

During the first ten phases of the LTFE program, referred to as LTFE 1 through LTFE 10, NIOSH targeted 

collection of SCSR units that were deployed for the longest period of time and exhibited signs of 

environmental impact. Reports published that describe the findings of LTFE 1 through LTFE 10 (Kyriazi 

et al. 1986; Kyriazi and Shubilla 1992, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008) were successful at 

identifying performance and reliability issues, resulting in SCSR product improvements. However, the 

SCSR sample size and collection criteria limited the statistical validity of the results. 
3 

 

 

In 2009, implementation of a new sampling strategy allowed for randomization of the SCSR population 

tested. As part of the new strategy, NIOSH initially compiled a list of 719 SCSR units from the MSHA 

SCSR Inventory and Report. From this list, NIOSH attempted to collect 536 SCSR units across the 11

MSHA mining districts that would pass the manufacturer’s recommended visual inspections at the 

mine for each phase. This sampling strategy improved the statistical significance over observations and 

findings/conclusions made in recent LTFE studies. Since 2009, NIOSH has referred to the LTFE 

collections as LTR1, LTR2, LTR3, etc., to indicate the randomization of the sampling operation and 

phase of the collection. NIOSH based LTR1, LTR2, and LTR3 collections on this random sampling 

protocol which also negated the influence of different mining environments such as coal seam height, 

size of the mine, and other environmental factors that bias the sample. The new LTFE collection 

strategy targets the same number of each SCSR model currently approved for use in underground coal 

mines, regardless of market share.

Beginning with the first phase long-term random (LTR1) collection phase, and continuing with LTR2, 

NIOSH subjected SCSR units to strict visual inspections. The intent was to only permit units that passed 

the visual inspection into the study.

 

All of the SCSR units tested as part of LTR2 are ones which have been approved by NIOSH and MSHA 

under the requirements of Title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 84 (42 CFR, Part 84), Subpart H. 

It is very important to keep in mind that the tests performed as part of LTR2 are focused on detecting 

any change in the performance of deployed respirators. Tests conducted as part of LTR2 are not 

performed as part of Subpart-H certification. LTR2 test conditions and endpoints are also different 

than tests conducted in Subpart-H certification. Unlike the Subpart H certification testing which relies 

solely on human subjects to evaluate the SCSR units, LTR2 tests are performed using an Automated 

Breathing and Metabolic Simulator (ABMS). The LTR2, breathing and metabolic simulation (BMS) tests 

are designed to be highly reproducible so comparisons between new and old units are valid. Although 

human-facilitated results and machine results are similar, they are different and the data reported 

from machine testing is not to be considered a direct equivalent to a Subpart H certification man test. 

The BMS tests are also intended to stress the functionality of the SCSR units towards the high end of 

their life support capabilities. While this report offers results that are sometimes less than optimal, it is 

important to remember that one of the goals is to assure that SCSR units, as found in mines, will 

provide the expected life-support capacity when they are properly used and cared for. Unless 

specifically noted otherwise, the report should be viewed as providing that evidence.

Methods 

SCSRs Collected and Evaluated

The SCSR units evaluated in the LTR2 study included units manufactured by Ocenco Incorporated and 

Dräger. The Ocenco EBA 6.5 and the Ocenco M-20 (Figures 1 and 2) are compressed oxygen-supplying 

SCSRs. The EBA 6.5 has a rated duration of 60 minutes; the M-20 has a rated duration of 10 minutes.
4 

 

 

Figure 1. Ocenco EBA 6.5 self-rescuer Figure 2. Ocenco M-20 self-rescuer

Figure 3. Dräger Oxy K Plus S self-rescuer Figure 4. Dräger Oxy K Plus (top) and Oxy K Plus S (bottom)

self-rescuers

The Dräger Oxy K Plus S (Figure 3) and Oxy K Plus (top of Figure 4) are chemical oxygen-producing SCSR 

units that employ an oxygen gas starter for initial operation while chemical oxygen generation is 

induced from the canister via the user’s exhaled breath. The Oxy K Plus and Oxy K Plus S are the same 

SCSR but have a different case opening mechanism and procedure (demonstrated in Figure 4). The Oxy 
5 

 

 

K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR has a rated duration of 60 minutes. All SCSR units included in the study utilize 

a chemical bed to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) to within acceptable limits.

CSE SR-100 SCSR units were not collected during this sampling period due to MSHA’s mandatory

removal of these devices from service in accordance with the NIOSH Respirator User Notice “Loss of 

Start-Up Oxygen in CSE SR-100 Self-Contained Self-Rescuers” of April 26, 2012. 

Sampling Strategy

For statistical analysis purposes, NIOSH attempted to collect and return for testing at least 100 of each 

NIOSH-approved SCSR model deployed in United States underground coal mines for the LTR2 study. To

obtain the units, NIOSH requested a list from MSHA of all units currently in mine use. In response, 

MSHA generated a list of approximately 250,000 SCSR serial numbers across all 11 mining districts, 

using the MSHA SCSR Inventory and Report. From the list, NIOSH compiled a random list of at least 137

units of each model. Targeting more SCSR units for collection than was needed was necessary in case 

there were issues with obtaining specific SCSR models. Given that the Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S

SCSR units are similar, with the exception of their case opening mechanism, this strategy proved 

successful as at least 105 units of each model were collected by NIOSH for laboratory testing. Table 1 

lists the number of each SCSR returned to NPPTL for testing during the LTR2 collection phase along 

with the manufacturing dates:

Table 1. Summary of LTR2 SCSR Collection

Manufacturer Model Number of units collected Manufacture date range

Dräger Oxy K Plus 96 02/2006 – 01/2011

Dräger Oxy K Plus S 67 04/2005 – 06/2011

Ocenco EBA 6.5 111 06/1997 – 08/2011

Ocenco M20 105 11/2006 – 06/2012

Tests and Evaluations

The following tests and evaluations were conducted on each SCSR unit obtained: (1) visual inspection 

which miners are required to make before each shift; (2) phenolphthalein indicator check; (3) 

quantitative leak test; (4) oxygen flow test; and (5) BMS test. In addition to the visual checks, the 

Dräger inspection manual states that the Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR should be tested in the field 

every 90 days with an acoustic solids movement detector (ASMD) to determine the condition of the 

chemical bed used to generate oxygen. This test is also performed at NPPTL using a laboratory-scale 

ASMD as a final screening just prior to testing; however, NIOSH did not perform this test because the 

equipment necessary to do so was not available. While the units were provided to NIOSH with the 

understanding that they should have passed the mine’s ASMD assessment, we acknowledge that 

unassessed, or even improperly assessed bed degradation could have had a negative impact on at least 

some of the results being reported herein.

Visual Inspection
6 

 

 

Three-hundred seventy-nine SCSR units passed the manufacturer’s recommended visual inspections at 

the mine and were collected for further evaluation by NIOSH, including a second visual inspection at 

NPPTL prior to laboratory testing. Manufacturers’ recommended visual inspections focus on the 

integrity of the case, seal, latches, mouthpiece plug, and indicators that are viewable without opening 

or activating the respirator. The case of the Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S chemical unit has moisture 

and heat indicators that signify water penetration or excessive temperature exposure, respectively. 

Ocenco Incorporated oxygen units have pressure indicators that measure oxygen cylinder pressure. 

Damage to the case, missing case latches, broken seals allowing contaminant penetration, excessive 

heat exposure, moisture penetration into the case, or low O2 gauge pressures are reasons for a unit to 

fail the visual inspection. If all visual inspections pass, the SCSR is safe for use. If a unit does not meet 

the manufacturer’s prescribed limits for these indicators when inspected at the mine, it must be taken 

out of service. SCSR units that failed the visual inspection at NPPTL were removed from the study. It 

should be noted that NPPTL only performed the same visual inspections that a miner is required to 

conduct prior to using the unit or taking it underground.

Phenolphthalein Indicator Check

Upon opening the SCSR case and removing the mouthpiece plug, each mouthpiece and inner portion of 

the breathing tube was wiped with a swab soaked in phenolphthalein. This action indicated whether 

the granular chemical sorbent had broken down and entered the breathing circuit where it could be 

inhaled by the user. The presence of chemical sorbent in the breathing zone of the SCSR is indicated 

by the phenolphthalein soaked swab changing to pink in color after swabbing.

Quantitative Leak Test

SCSR units that passed the visual inspection check proceeded to the quantitative (QNT) leak test. This 

test assesses breathing circuit integrity but is not required for approval. The leak test employs an 

exhaust blower to induce a vacuum of 300 mm H2O within the SCSR breathing circuit while measuring 

the inward leakage rate with a mass flow meter. At maximal work rates, inhalation pressure/vacuum 

should not exceed +300 or -300 mm H2O (Hodgson, 1993) and inward leakage rates should be less than 

500 milliliters per minute (ml/min) to reasonably assure user protection for a period equal to or 

greater than the rated service time. The inward leakage threshold of 500 ml/min is a function of the 

200-ppm, one-hour threshold limit value (TLV) for carbon monoxide (CO). An inward leakage rate of 

500 ml/min in a 10% CO atmosphere at a peak inhalation rate of 250 liters per minute over one hour 

corresponds to a CO volume fraction of 0.0002 or 200 ppm. Leakage rates were documented and SCSR 

units that exceeded the 500 ml/min leakage rate continued with the remaining pre-test evaluations 

and were subsequently tested.

Mouthpiece connectors that are shaped as closely as possible to the internal dimensions of the SCSR 

mouthpiece opening are used to seal the SCSR to the ABMS trachea. Custom fabrication of these 

mouthpieces to match the SCSR mouthpiece opening is required to optimize the fit and prevent the 

connection from being a source of inward leakage. Care is taken when inserting the connector into the 

SCSR mouthpiece to be tested and securing it tightly with a wire tie. Putty is used, as necessary, to 

enhance this seal and stop any residual inward leakage. The mouthpiece connector is tightly sealed via 

rubber tubing to the vacuum source for the QNT. Leakage within the breathing circuit of the SCSR 
7 

 

 

being tested under vacuum is confirmed by pinching and sealing the breathing hose just below the 

mouthpiece connector. 

Oxygen Flow Test

After assessing the breathing circuit integrity, each Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR was tested for maximum 

sustained oxygen flow rate. This was performed by disconnecting the oxygen supply line from the 

breathing bag, connecting it to a flow meter, and fully opening the oxygen supply valve for 

approximately 30 seconds. The maximum sustained oxygen flow rate was subsequently recorded and 

the supply valve was fully closed. The oxygen supply line was subsequently reattached securely to the 

breathing bag connector with a wire tie. This test is part of the approval process as described in Title 42 

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 84, §84.94, gas flow test; closed-circuit apparatus. For 

combination constant flow and on-demand SCSR units, the approval standard requires a minimum 

constant flow rate of 1.5 L/min. If the maximum sustained oxygen flow rate is greater than or equal to 

1.5 L/min, the unit meets this test requirement.

BMS Test

The SCSR units tested in this phase were not NIOSH-approved using the ABMS. The units were 

approved using man-test 4 for the stated service time (either 10 or 60 minutes), as described in 42 CFR 

Part 84, Subpart H. Due to resource constraints, it was not feasible to conduct man-test 4 on 400 SCSR

units. The BMS test was used as a surrogate for man-test 4. The computer-controlled ABMS (Figure 5) 

produces CO2 and simulates O2 consumption at fixed breathing frequencies and tidal volumes to 

simulate human metabolic processes (Deno, 1984 and Kyriazi, 1986). The ABMS machine is an ideal 

device for evaluating inhaled CO2 and O2 concentrations in SCSR units due to its high degree of 

accuracy and repeatability in duplicating human CO2 production and O2 consumption. By design, an 

ABMS replicates breathing ventilation (respiratory frequency, tidal volume, flow, temperature, and 

humidity), O2 consumption, and CO2 production. An ABMS produces human respiratory air qualities at 

approximately 33oC and saturated with water vapor. Due to its complexity, an ABMS is managed by a 

computer program. The computer uses a routine of energy expenditures (protocol) to make 

adjustments and provide measurements of respiratory gas concentrations, pressures, and 

temperatures.

NIOSH tested the SCSR units on the ABMS using a constant average metabolic work rate test (Table 2).

The constant average work rate used is similar to the 50th percentile miner (body weight of 87 kg or 

192 lbs.) performing the one hour man-test 4 as described in 42 CFR Part 84, Subpart H. The ABMS was 

programmed to simulate human respiration at a VO2 of 1.35 L/min, VCO2 of 1.15 L/min, a ventilation 

rate of 30 L/min, and respiratory frequency of 18 breaths per minute. During testing, the ABMS 

monitored metabolic stressors which include inhaled levels of CO2 and O2, wet- and dry-bulb 

temperatures, and inhalation and exhalation breathing resistances (pressures) continuously until the 

test was terminated. Tests on the ABMS are terminated upon one of three endpoints: exhaustion of 

the O2 supply as indicated by inhalation pressures reaching -200 mm H2O, coinciding with an empty 

breathing bag; average inhaled CO2 levels exceeding 10%; or O2 levels falling below 15%. When these 

limits are exceeded, the ABMS gas metabolism is compromised and further data are not acceptable for 

analysis.
8 

 

 

Although the average work rate is the same, LTR testing is not equivalent to approval testing. Human 

subjects may differ from each other and from BMS tests in terms of CO2 production rate, ventilation 

rate, and respiratory frequency. These parameters affect apparatus duration as well as all of the 

monitored variables. Treadmill tests cannot be considered equivalent to BMS tests, even though the 

O2 consumption rate is the same. However, BMS tests can be used to provide an indication of SCSR 

duration performance. Approval testing under 42 CFR, Part 84, Subpart H using human subjects 

imposes high and low work rates that the average work rate used in LTR testing does not. Also, stressor 

levels are continuously monitored during LTR testing, whereas they are sampled only between work 

activities performed by human subjects in approval testing. In addition, LTR testing continues until the 

apparatus is empty or stressor levels exceed allowable parameters, whereas testing during approval

ends at the rated duration, even if the capacity of the apparatus exceeds it.

Figure 5. Automated Breathing and Metabolic 

Simulator

Table 2. Constant Average Metabolic Work Rate

Metabolic workload Rate

O2 Consumption 1.35 L/min

CO2 Production Rate 1.15 L/min

Ventilation Rate 30 L/min

Tidal Volume 1.68 l/breath

Respiratory Frequency 17.9 breaths/min

Peak Respiratory Flow Rate:

 Peak Inhalation 89 L/min

 Peak Exhalation 71 L/min

Units not passing the manufacturer’s recommended visual inspection, exhibiting defects that are 

determined to be a result of insufficient quality control during the manufacturing process (i.e., not 
9 

 

 

meeting the requirements of 42 CFR Part 84.41, Quality Control Plans), or not meeting the rated 

duration are referred to the certified product investigation process (CPIP) coordinator for investigation 

into the cause of these results and to determine if any further action is warranted. None of the LTR2 

SCSR units referred to the CPIP coordinator for review required further action.

SCSR Stressor Test Data

NIOSH averaged the minute average values of the stressors monitored during the BMS testing of each 

SCSR over its rated service time in order to normalize test performance results. Use of full test duration 

results introduces stressor data variances that prevent valid comparisons between individual tests. 

NIOSH plotted all stressor data as a function of SCSR manufacturing date in order to draw out 

deployment time effects.

All average stressor data from the testing of deployed units were averaged for each SCSR type to 

obtain a composite average for comparison. This information, along with stressor minimums and 

maximums for each set of tests, was tabulated to assess the deployed units’ performance.

Results and Discussion 

SCSR Collection

NIOSH targeted 536 units deployed in United States underground coal mines for collection for LTR2. On 

the randomly generated collection lists, 137 units represented Ocenco EBA 6.5, 176 units represented 

Ocenco M-20, and 223 units represented Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S models. Of the 536 units 

targeted, NIOSH collected 386 SCSR units at the mine. After identifying seven visual inspection failures, 

379 SCSRs were returned to NPPTL for testing, yielding a collection rate of 70.7%. Figure 6 depicts the 

status of the 536 SCSRs targeted in the LTR2 collection. A total of 150 SCSRs were either missing or not 

available for various reasons including mine closure, removed from service, and not feasible to be 

collected (Figure 5). This amounts to 28.0% of the SCSR units on the targeted collection list.

Figure 6. LTR2 Collection Dispersion

379

112

7 4 725 2 Collected for Testing

Missing

Removed from Service

Not Available

Failed inspection at

mine

Not feasible to be

collected

Mine

Closed/Abandoned
10

 

 

From the collection of 379 SCSR units, two units failed the visual inspection at NPPTL leaving 377 units 

that qualified for BMS testing. The SCSR units that qualified for BMS testing included: 163 Dräger Oxy-K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S, 109 Ocenco EBA 6.5, and 105 Ocenco M-20 units (Figure 7). 

Figure 7. Dispersion of SCSRs Qualified for BMS Testing

When LTR2 collection and testing began in January, 2012, NIOSH decided to collect all SCSR units that 

the mines and MSHA District Offices deemed as passing visual inspection. Of the 386 SCSR units (Table 

3) that were collected at the mines, seven (1.3%) failed mine visual inspection due to either damage to 

the unit, an open case, or a missing security seal. Out of 379 SCSR units collected and transported to 

NIOSH, an additional two SCSR units (0.4%) failed visual inspection when applying the manufacturer’s 

criteria upon test initiation in the laboratory. One failure at NPPTL was due to excessive in-leakage at 

the collar connected to the mouthpiece. The second failure was due to the breathing hose ripping 

during handling for the QNT leak test. The units failing visual inspection were not evaluated further at 

NPPTL. From the 377 qualifying SCSR units, NIOSH obtained 358 valid sets of data.

Table 3. Test Summary for SCSR Units Passing Visual Inspection at the Mine, MSHA District Office, and NIOSH 

Test Laboratory

SCSR Model Targeted

Collected 

at Mine

Passed Visual 

Inspection at 

Mine

Passed Visual 

Inspection at 

NIOSH Test 

Laboratory Tested

Obtained 

Valid Test 

Data

Dräger Oxy K Plus 122 96 96 96 96 93

Dräger Oxy K Plus 

S 101 72 67 67 67 67

Ocenco EBA 6.5 137 112 111 109 109 102

Ocenco M-20 176 106 105 105 105 96

Totals 536 386 379 377 377 358

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Draeger Oxy K

Plus/Oxy K Plus S

Ocenco M-20 Ocenco EBA 6.5

163

105 109
11

 

 

Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR

One-hundred sixty-three of the 223 Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units listed on the LTR2 targeted 

collection list were received at NIOSH for testing. LTR2 methods called for the collection of 100 units, 

yielding a collection rate of 163%. The biggest challenges affecting the collection of Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units included 55 units identified as missing. This challenge resulted in 24.7% of 

Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units on the targeted collection list being unavailable. The 

remaining units were not collected for the reason listed as failure of visual inspection at the mine (5).

All 163 Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units tested passed the manufacturer’s visual inspection at 

the NIOSH laboratory (Figure 8). Valid test data was obtained for 93 of the 96 Dräger Oxy K Plus and all 

Dräger Oxy K Plus S SCSR units. The three invalid tests were due to ABMS operational issues. None of 

the Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units returned to the NIOSH laboratory for testing failed the 

phenolphthalein indicator test.

Figure 8. Areas of Visual Inspection for Dräger Oxy K Plus SCSR

The breathing circuit integrity check of the Dräger Oxy K Plus SCSR using the QNT leak test procedure 

showed that 91 of 93 SCSR units for which valid data was obtained had a leak rate less than 100 ml/min 

and all had leak rates less than 500 ml/min. The breathing circuit integrity check of the Dräger Oxy K 

Plus S SCSR using the QNT test procedure showed that 63 of the 67 units tested had a leak rate less 

than 100 ml/min and 66 of 67 SCSR units had a leak rate less than 500 ml/min.

After test initiation on the ABMS, all SCSR units continued operating until the breathing gas supply was 

expended. All but one Dräger Oxy K Plus SCSR and all Dräger Oxy K Plus S met or exceeded the NIOSH 

approved 60 minute service time. The average duration for Dräger Oxy K Plus and Dräger Oxy K Plus S 

SCSRs tested was 84.8 and 83.4 minutes, respectively. 
12

 

 

NIOSH personnel averaged the minute-average values of the stressors monitored during BMS testing of 

the Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units over the first 60 minutes of the test and the results are 

presented graphically in Appendix A (Figures 9 through 14). Sixty minute data averaging, consistent 

with service time, was chosen to eliminate the test duration variability effect in the determination of 

stressor levels. The deployed Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR unit stressor results were sorted 

within each composite graph by manufacturing dates which ranged in age from oldest to newest, left 

to right. A linear regression was fit to each stressor plotted from Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR 

testing to draw out the effects of deployment time. No major trends in measured stressors that could 

be attributed to deployment time were identified.

Test Duration and composite mean stressor levels, including FIO2 (mole fraction inspired oxygen, 

FICO2 (mole fraction inspired carbon dioxide), PEPRS (peak expired pressure), PIPRS (peak inspired 

pressure), and TAVGDB (average dry bulb temperature), are shown for the deployed Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR units in Table 4. Dräger Oxy K Plus and Oxy K Plus S SCSR units are functionally 

identical except for the opening procedure. As would be expected, average stressor levels measured 

for the Oxy K Plus and Oxy K Plus S SCSR units were very similar.

Table 4. Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S Deployed SCSR Unit Duration and Composite Mean Stressor 

Levels

Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR

Of the 137 EBA 6.5 SCSR units listed on the LTR2 targeted collection list, 111 were returned to NIOSH 

for testing. This yielded a collection rate of 111% when compared to LTR2 collection methods calling 

for the collection of 100 units. Challenges affecting the collection of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units 

included missing units or unavailable units accounting for 16 SCSR units. These two challenges resulted 

in 11.7% of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units on the targeted collection list being unavailable. The remaining 

units were not collected and returned for reasons listed as bad communication (6), failure of visual 

inspection at the mine (1), out for repair (1), no record (1), and removed from service (1).

All but two of the 111 Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units returned for testing passed the manufacturer’s visual 

inspection at NPPTL. The failures were due to excessive in-leakage observed at the collar connected to 

the mouthpiece and the breathing hose ripping during handling during QNT leak tests. This means that 

98.2% of the EBA 6.5 SCSR units that passed the manufacturer’s visual inspection at the mine also 

passed visual inspection at NIOSH. Valid test data was obtained for 102 of the 109 Ocenco EBA 6.5 

DURATION FIO2 FICO2 PEPRS CMH2O PIPRS CMH2O TAVGDB

MIN 54 0.6936 0.0070 34.04 -76.98 36.24

MAX 90 0.8950 0.0203 55.98 -43.03 41.85

AVERAGE 84.8 0.8403 0.0089 40.20 -50.65 39.22

MIN 68 0.7120 0.0066 31.48 -60.31 30.67

MAX 89 0.8613 0.0139 56.55 -39.88 41.94

AVERAGE 83.4 0.8262 0.0094 38.91 -49.07 38.22

Oxy K Plus S Deployed Unit Data (67 tests)

Oxy K Plus Deployed Unit Data (93 tests)
13

 

 

SCSR units that were tested. The invalid tests were due to ABMS operational issues. None of the

Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units returned to the NIOSH laboratory for testing failed the phenolphthalein 

indicator test.

The breathing circuit integrity check of the Ocenco EBA 6.5 using the QNT leak test procedure showed 

that 64 of 102 SCSR units tested had a leak rate less than 100 ml/min and 95 of 102 SCSR units had a 

leak rate of less than 500 ml/min.

After test initiation on the ABMS, all SCSR units continued operating until the breathing gas supply was 

expended. All SCSR units met or exceeded their NIOSH-approved 60 minute service time with no 

critical failures. The average duration for all Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units was 102 minutes.

All Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units were subsequently evaluated for maximum sustained oxygen flow rate. 

The flow rates ranged from 1.69 to 1.98 liters per minute at ambient temperature and pressure.

Approval test requirements specify a minimum sustained flow rate of 1.5 LPM; therefore, all Ocenco 

EBA 6.5 SCSRs passed the oxygen flow test.

NIOSH averaged the minute-average values of the stressors monitored during BMS testing of the 

Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units over the first 60 minutes of the test and the results are presented

graphically in Appendix B (Figures 15 through 20). Sixty minute data averaging, consistent with service 

time, was chosen to eliminate the test duration variability effect in the determination of stressor 

levels. NIOSH sorted the deployed Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR unit stressor results within each composite 

graph by manufacturing dates which range in age from oldest to newest, left to right. A linear

regression was fit to each stressor plotted from SCSR testing to draw out the effects of deployment 

time. As can be seen in Figures 28 and 29, breathing resistance increased slightly as a function of 

deployment time for the Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR. 

Test Duration and composite average stressor levels, including FIO2, FICO2, PEPRS, PIPRS, and 

TAVGDB, are shown for the deployed Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR units in Table 5. 

Table 5. Ocenco EBA 6.5 Deployed SCSR Unit Duration and Composite Mean Stressor Levels

Ocenco M-20 SCSR

One hundred five of the 176 Ocenco M-20 SCSR units listed on the LTR2 targeted collection list were 

returned to NIOSH. This yielded a collection rate of 105% when compared to LTR2 methods calling for 

the collection of 100 units. Challenges affecting the collection of Ocenco M-20 SCSR units included: 

insufficient communications with mines (10) and missing units (42). These two challenges alone 

resulted in 29.5% of Ocenco M-20 SCSR units on the targeted collection list being unavailable. The 

remaining units were not collected and returned for reasons listed as removed from service (6), no 

DURATION FIO2 FICO2 PEPRS CMH2O PIPRS CMH2O TAVGDB

MIN 74 0.3236 0.0011 35.03 -87.98 38.20

MAX 110 0.9270 0.0068 71.87 -38.33 43.99

AVERAGE 102.1 0.5364 0.0030 45.50 -47.47 41.02

M-20 Deployed Unit Data (102 tests)
14

 

 

record (4), unavailable (3), out for repair (3), mine closed/abandoned (2), and failed visual inspection at

mine (1).

All of the 105 Ocenco M-20 SCSR units that were returned for testing passed the manufacturer’s visual 

inspection at NPPTL. Valid test data was obtained for 96 of the 105 Ocenco M-20 SCSR units tested. 

Eight of the nine tests were deemed to be invalid due to ABMS operational issues. The ninth invalid 

test was due to data acquisition system issues. None of the Ocenco M-20 SCSR units returned to the 

NIOSH laboratory for testing failed the phenolphthalein indicator test.

The breathing circuit integrity check of the Ocenco M-20 SCSR units using the QNT leak test procedure 

showed that 71 of 96 SCSR units tested had a leak rate less than 100 ml/min and 94 of 96 SCSR units 

had a leak rate of less than 500 ml/min.

After test initiation on the ABMS, all but one Ocenco M-20 SCSR continued operating until the 

breathing gas supply was exhausted. Testing of this one unit was stopped after 7 minutes because the 

breathing bag was empty and the inspired O2 level decreased to less than 7.0%. All but one M-20 SCSR 

unit exceeded their NIOSH-approved 10 minute service time. The average duration for all Ocenco M-20 

SCSR units was 17.6 minutes.

During BMS testing, NIOSH noted that 40 of the 96 M-20 SCSR units tested exceeded 4% CO2 prior to 

oxygen expenditure (Table 6). However, none of these 40 exceeded 4% CO2 before the 10-minute 

service time was reached.

Table 6. Ocenco M-20 SCSR 4% Carbon Dioxide Breakthrough Times

4% CO2 Breakthrough Test Maximum CO2,

Time, minutes Duration, minutes Volume %

10 15 10.1

13 17 7.1

14 18 5.63

15 18 5.59

15 19 7.11

15 18 5.38

15 15 4.76

15 15 4.09

15 16 4.85

15 17 6.24

16 18 5.03

16 20 7.96

16 17 4.83

16 18 4.68

16 19 7.23

16 16 4.06

17 19 6.19

17 18 4.76

17 17 4.37

17 18 4.33
15

 

 

17 19 5.18

17 20 6.19

17 18 5.19

17 18 4.97

17 18 4.85

17 18 4.96

17 19 5.07

17 20 5.55

17 18 4.63

17 20 7.68

18 18 4.07

18 18 4.62

18 18 4.96

18 19 4.69

18 18 4.04

18 18 4.46

19 20 4.95

19 19 4.89

19 19 4.31

20 20 4.46

NIOSH averaged the minute-average values of the stressors monitored during BMS testing of the 

Ocenco M-20 SCSR units over the first 10 minutes of the test. The results appear graphically in 

Appendix C (Figures 21 through 26). Ten minute data averaging, consistent with service time, was 

chosen to eliminate the test duration variability effect in the determination of stressor levels. NIOSH 

sorted the deployed Ocenco M-20 SCSR unit stressor results within each composite graph by 

manufacturing dates which range in age from oldest to newest, left to right. A linear regression was fit 

to each stressor plotted from Ocenco M-20 SCSR testing to draw out the effects of deployment time. 

No major trends in measured stressors that could be attributed to deployment time were identified.

Test Duration and composite average mean stressor levels, including FIO2, FICO2, PEPRS, PIPRS, and 

TAVGDB, are shown for the new and deployed Ocenco M-20 SCSR units in Table 7. 

Table 7. Ocenco M-20 Deployed SCSR Unit Duration and Composite Mean Stressor Levels

Conclusions 

Mine Operators

DURATION FIO2 FICO2 PEPRS CMH2O PIPRS CMH2O TAVGDB

MIN 7 0.2285 0.0018 23.67 -112.31 38.99

MAX 21 0.8092 0.0155 53.33 -20.61 44.84

AVERAGE 17.6 0.4441 0.0069 32.21 -58.18 42.34

M-20 Deployed Unit Data (96 tests)
16

 

 

All 358 SCSR units that obtained valid test data provided sufficiently high inhaled O2 levels to sustain 

life over the course of the manufacturers’ specified service time. These 358 SCSR units also provided 

sufficiently low inhaled CO2 levels to sustain life over the course of the manufacturers’ specified 

service time. Breathing resistances measured for all SCSRs tested were well within limits accepted as 

tolerable (-300 and +200 mm H2O) based on research conducted at Noll Laboratory at Penn State 

University. While only 2.3% of the SCSR units collected at the mines did not meet the visual 

inspections, miners should continue to inspect their units daily to ensure units not meeting visual 

inspection are removed from the mines. Overall, only slight degradation in SCSR performance due to 

deployment time in the mines was observed.

SCSR Manufacturers

A high degree of variability was observed in inhaled O2 levels for all but one manufacturer’s SCSR unit. 

Inhaled O2 levels are sensitive to N2 imbalances in and in-leakage of air into the ABMS breathing 

circuit. The wide range of inhaled O2 levels measured for all deployed unit tests may be attributable to 

these sensitivities.

During BMS testing, 40 of 96 of one manufacturer’s SCSR units tested exceeded 4% CO2 prior to 

oxygen expenditure; however, none of these 40 units exceeded 4% CO2 before the service time was 

reached. NIOSH recognized this potential hazard and new 42 CFR, Part 84 Subpart O regulations for all 

SCSRs sold after January 4, 2018 prohibit approval of an apparatus that operates with inspired CO2

levels above 4.0%. SCSR units fail this test and approval if from test start-up to oxygen depletion the 

one-minute average inspired CO2 > 4.0%. 

The inspired breathing resistance of one manufacturer’s SCSR increased slightly as a function of mine 

deployment time. No definite trends in other stressors as a function of deployment time for any other 

manufacturer’ SCSR units were identified. This is an indication that the SCSR units targeted for 

collection in LTR2 were mainly not affected by deployment time.
17

 

 

Appendix A: Acronyms and Abbreviations 

Acronyms and Abbreviations 

ABMS

BMS

CO

CO2 

CPIP

FICO2

FIO2

LTFE 

LTR 

MSHA

N2

NIOSH

NPPTL

O2

OSHA

QNT

PEPRS CMH20

PIPRS CMH20

SCSR

TAVGDB

TLV 

VCO2 

VO2

automated breathing and metabolic simulator

breathing and metabolic simulation

carbon monoxide

carbon dioxide

certified product investigation process

mole fraction inspired carbon dioxide

mole fraction inspired oxygen

long-term field evaluation

long-term random field evaluation

Mine Safety and Health Administration

Nitrogen

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory

oxygen

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

quantitative leak test

peak expired pressure, centimeters of water

peak inspired pressure, centimeters of water

self-contained self-rescuer

average dry bulb temperature over entire breath, oC 

threshold limit value

volume of carbon dioxide

volume of oxygen

Unit of Measure Abbreviations

breaths/min

kg

L 

L/breath

lb

LPM 

mL/min

mm

mm H2O 

% 

ppm

breaths per minute

kilogram(s)

liter(s)

liter(s) per breath

pound(s)

liter(s) per minute

milliliter(s) per minute

millimeter(s)

millimeter(s) of water pressure

percent

parts per million
18

 

 

Appendix B: BMS Testing of the Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S 

SCSR Stressors

y = 0.0001x + 78.324

55

60

65

70

75

80

85

90

95

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11

Duration, minutes

Manufacturing Date

Duration of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S SCSR - LTR2

Figure 9. Duration of Field Deployed and New Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained 

Self-Rescuers

y = -2E-05x + 1.7272

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

1.6

1.8

2

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11

Average Inspired CO2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired CO2 of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S 

SCSR - LTR2

Figure 10. 60-Minute Average Percent Inspired Carbon Dioxide of Field Deployed and New 

Dräger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained Self-Rescuers
19

 

 

Figure 11. 60-Minute Average Percent Inspired Oxygen of Field Deployed and New Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

Figure 12. 60-Minute Average Dry-Bulb Temperatures of Field Deployed and New Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

y = -0.0006x + 107.07

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11

Average Inspired O2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired O2 of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K Plus S 

SCSR - LTR2

y = -3E-05x + 40.166

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11

Average Dry Bulb Temperatures, oC

Manufacturing Date

Average Dry-Bulb Temperatures of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K 

Plus S SCSR - LTR2
20

 

 

Figure 13. 60-Minute Average Peak Inspired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

Figure 14. 60-Minute Average Peak Expired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Dräger Oxy K 

Plus/Oxy K Plus S Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

y = 0.0008x - 82.581

-120

-100

-80

-60

-40

-20

0

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11

Average Peak Inspired Pressure, mm H

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Inspired Pressure of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K 

Plus S SCSR - LTR2

y = 0.0018x - 30.716

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

09/05/05 10/10/06 11/14/07 12/18/08 01/22/10 02/26/11 04/01/12

Average Peak Expired Pressure, mm H

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Expired Pressure of Draeger Oxy K Plus/Oxy K 

Plus S SCSR - LTR2
21

 

 

Appendix C: BMS Testing of the Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR Stressors

Figure 15. Duration of Field Deployed and New Ocenco EBA 6.5 Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

Figure 16. 60-Minute Average Percent Inspired Carbon Dioxide of Field Deployed and New Ocenco 

EBA 6.5 Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

y = -0.0005x + 119.62

55

65

75

85

95

105

115

12/14/05 01/18/07 02/22/08 03/28/09 05/02/10 06/06/11 07/10/12

Duration, minutes

Manufacturing Date

Duration of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR - LTR2

y = -3E-05x + 1.4262

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

1.6

1.8

2

12/14/05 08/06/07 03/28/09 11/18/10 07/10/12

Average Inspired CO2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired CO2 of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR - LTR2
22

 

 

Figure 17. 60-Minute Average Percent Inspired Oxygen of Field Deployed and New Ocenco EBA 6.5 

Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

Figure 18. 60-Minute Average Dry-Bulb Temperatures of Field Deployed and New Ocenco EBA 6.5 

Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

y = -0.0014x + 109.24

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

12/14/05 08/06/07 03/28/09 11/18/10 07/10/12

Average Inspired O2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired O2 of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR - LTR2

y = -0.0005x + 60.886

32

34

36

38

40

42

44

46

12/14/05 08/06/07 03/28/09 11/18/10 07/10/12

Average Dry Bulb Temperatures, oC

Manufacturing Date

Average Dry-Bulb Temperatures of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR -

LTR2
23

 

 

Figure 19. 60-Minute Average Peak Inspired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Ocenco EBA 6.5 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

Figure 20. 60-Minute Average Peak Expired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Ocenco EBA 6.5 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

y = 0.0031x - 169.6

-120

-100

-80

-60

-40

-20

0

12/14/05 08/06/07 03/28/09 11/18/10 07/10/12

Average Peak Inspired Pressure, mm H

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Insprired Pressure of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR -

LTR2

y = -0.0014x + 99.294

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

12/14/05 08/06/07 03/28/09 11/18/10 07/10/12

Average Peak Expired Pressure, mm H

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Expired Pressure of Ocenco EBA 6.5 SCSR -

LTR2
24

 

 

Appendix D: BMS Testing of the Ocenco M-20 SCSR Stressors

Figure 21. Duration of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M-20 Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

Figure 22. 10-Minute Average Percent Inspired Carbon Dioxide of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M20 Self-Contained Self-Rescuers

y = 0.0006x - 8.16

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

Duration, minutes

Manufacturing Date

Duration of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2

y = 2E-05x + 0.0817

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

1.6

1.8

2

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

Average Inspired CO2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired CO2 of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2
25

 

 

Figure 23. 10-Minute Average Percent Inspired Oxygen of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M-20 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

Figure 24. 10-Minute Average Dry-Bulb Temperatures of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M-20 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

y = -0.0002x + 51.578

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

Average Inspired O2, Volume %

Manufacturing Date

Average % Inspired O2 of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2

y = -7E-05x + 45.056

25

30

35

40

45

50

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

Average Dry Bulb Temperatures, oC

Manufacturing Date

Average Dry Bulb Temperatures of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2
26

 

 

Figure 25. 10-Minute Average Peak Inspired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M-20 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

Figure 26. 10-Minute Average Peak Expired Pressure of Field Deployed and New Ocenco M-20 SelfContained Self-Rescuers

y = -0.0019x + 17.874

-120

-100

-80

-60

-40

-20

0

Average Peak Inspired Pressure, mm H

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Insprired Pressure of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2

y = -0.0004x + 49.039

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

Average Peak Expired Pressure, mm H

12/14/05 11/29/06 11/14/07 10/29/08 10/14/09 09/29/10 09/14/11

O2

Manufacturing Date

Average Peak Expired Pressure of Ocenco M20 SCSR - LTR2
27

 

 

Acknowledgements 

Thanks are extended to the Mine Safety and Health Administration, The United Mine Workers of 

America, Mine Operators, Manufacturers, Mine Workers, and NIOSH personnel that supported and 

continue to support the long-term field evaluation of SCSRs in U.S. underground coal mines. The 

authors gratefully acknowledge Robert Stein, Courtney Neiderhiser3, Nicholas Kyriazi3, and John P. 

Shubilla3 who developed the initial draft of this document and for their contributions on the Long-Term 

Field Evaluation Project to include developing the sampling strategy, arranging the collection from the 

various mines, and testing SCSRs.

The following additional NIOSH National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory personnel are 

acknowledged for their contributions in providing assistance with developing this report: 

Marisa Fries for her editorial support.

Figure 4 photo courtesy of MSHA. All other photos courtesy of NIOSH NPPTL. 

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3 Formerly of NIOSH, National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory
28

For more information related to personal protective equipment, visit the NPPTL website 

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To receive documents or other information about occupational safety and health topics, contact NIOSH:

Telephone: 1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636)

TTY: 1–888–232–6348

CDC INFO: https://www.cdc.gov/cdc-info/ 

or visit the NIOSH website at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

For a monthly update on news at NIOSH, subscribe to NIOSH eNews by visiting 

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/eNews/ 

Disclaimer 

Mention of any company or product does not constitute endorsement by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and 

Health (NIOSH). In addition, citations to websites external to NIOSH do not constitute NIOSH endorsement of the 

sponsoring organizations or their programs or products. Furthermore, NIOSH is not responsible for the content of these 

websites. All web addresses referenced in this document were accessible as of the publication date. 

Suggested Citation

NIOSH [2017]. PPE CASE: point-of-use assessment for self-contained self-rescuers randomly sampled from mining districts: 

second phase. By Walbert G, Monaghan W. Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, NPPTL Report Number P2018-0102.