Approvals: 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level 

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory 

P.O. Box 18070 

Pittsburgh, PA 15236 

Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005

MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS 

STANDARD TESTING PROCEDURE (STP) 

1. PURPOSE

This test establishes the procedures for ensuring that the level of protection provided by the Man 

Test requirements on Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Respirators submitted for 

Approval, Extension of Approval, or examined during Certified Product Audits, meet the 

minimum certification standards set forth in 42 CFR, Part 84, Subpart G, Section 84.63(a)(c)(d), 

and Subpart H, Section 84.79, 84.97, 84.99, 84.100, and 84.103, Volume 60, Number 110, June 

8, 1995. 

2. GENERAL

This STP describes the Man Tests, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus test in sufficient detail 

that a person knowledgeable in the appropriate technical field can select equipment with the 

necessary resolution, conduct the test, and determine whether or not the product passes the test. 

3. EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS

 3.1. The list of necessary test equipment and materials follows: 

3.1.1. One B-D Yale (2317 100YL) 100cc (Becton, Dickson and Co.) syringe "LuerLok", Becton Dickson & Company, Rutherford, NJ, or equivalent.

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 2 of 34 

3.1.2. Doric Series 400A Digital Trendicator, Doric Scientific Division, Emerson 

Electric Company, 3883 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA 92123 or equivalent. 

3.1.3. Validyne Digital Readout - Model CD23 or equivalent. 

3.1.4. Temperature compensated pressure transducer (Validyne Engineering Model No. 

DP45) or equivalent. 

3.1.5. Electric timer, calibrated to l00ths of a minute (Precision Scientific Co.) or 

equivalent. 

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3.1.6. Multiple outlet box with 6 receptacles or equivalent. 

3.1.7. Timer, Digital stopwatch, calibrated to hundredths of a minute (Cronus Precision 

Products, Inc.) to hand carry. or equivalent. 

3.1.8. Applied Electrochemistry CO2 Analyzer - Model CD-3A or equivalent. 

3.1.9. Applied Electrochemistry Oxygen Analyzer - Model S-3A or equivalent. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 4 of 34 

 3.1.10. Oxygen - U.S.P or equivalent. 

3.1.11. Carbon dioxide - calibration gas, 4-5%, 1-2%, 3-4% Matheson Scientific 

Company, E. Rutherford, NJ or equivalent. 

3.1.12. Carbon dioxide calibration curve or equivalent. 

 3.1.13. Fifty-pound sack or equivalent. 

3.1.14. Forty-five pound pipe weight or equivalent. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 5 of 34 

3.1.15. Forty-five pound weight pulling machine (U.S. BOM) or equivalent. 

3.1.16. Knee pads or equivalent. 

3.1.17. Matheson Gas Products Model # 8320 carbon dioxide regulator, East Rutherford, 

NJ or equivalent. 

3.1.18. Dwyer Slant Manometer 0-3", F. W. Dwyer Manufacturing Co., Michigan City, 

Indiana or equivalent. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 6 of 34 

3.1.19. Model 18-49B Horizontal Treadmill, 0-6 MPH, Quinton Instruments, 3051 44th

Avenue, West Seattle, Washington 98199 or equivalent. 

3.1.20. National Draeger Endless Ladder, 0-130 feet/minute S/N181-2486 or equivalent. 

3.1.21. A crash cart with current dated drugs and equipment at the test scene. 

3.1.22. Two test subjects meeting requirements of the NIOSH Human Subject Review 

Board (HSRB) approved Protocol. Refer to HSRB-73-DSR-01, “Protocol for the 

Testing of Respiratory Protective Devices” for the proper consent form and 

complete details on the use of human test subjects in respirator certification 

testing. 

3.1.23. A hospital type gurney (or a bed for test subject to lay on) or equivalent. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 7 of 34 

3.1.24. A 4' by 8' pad for test subject to crawl on or equivalent. 

4. TESTING REQUIREMENTS AND CONDITIONS

4.1. Prior to beginning any testing, all measuring equipment to be used must have been 

calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's calibration procedure and schedule. At 

a minimum, all measuring equipment utilized for this testing must have been calibrated 

within the preceding 12 months using a method traceable to the National Institute of 

Standards and Technology (NIST). 

4.2. The compressed gas cylinder must meet all applicable Department of Transportation 

requirements for cylinder approval as well as for retesting/requalification. 

4.3. Normal laboratory safety practices must be observed. This includes safety precautions 

described in the current ALOSH Facility Laboratory Safety Manual. 

4.3.1. Safety glasses, lab coats, and hard-toe shoes must be worn at all times. 

4.3.2. Work benches must be maintained free of clutter and non-essential test 

equipment. 

4.3.3. When handling any glass laboratory equipment, lab technicians and personnel 

must wear special gloves which protect against lacerations or punctures. 

5. PROCEDURE

Note: Reference Section 3 for equipment, model numbers and manufacturers. For calibration 

purposes use those described in the manufacturer's operation and maintenance manuals. 

5.1. Use the test operating procedure as follows: 

5.1.1. The man tests are conducted in duplicate in accordance with the specific duration 

test schedule corresponding to the service time approval requested by the 

manufacturer. 

5.1.2. During the sampling periods the following parameters are sampled/monitored: 

Open Circuit Closed Circuit

a) breathing resistance a) breathing resistance 

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b) gauge pressure b) gauge pressure 

c) subject pulse rate c) subject pulse rate 

d) subject respiration rate d) subject respiration rate 

e) ambient temperature e) oxygen in inhalation tube 

f) carbon dioxide in inhalation tube 

g) temperature (mask and ambient) 

5.1.3. Prior to tests the oxygen and carbon dioxide analyzers must be calibrated with 

the proper calibration gas (see 3.1.10. and 3.1.11.) and the resistance instrument 

must be calibrated with a slant manometer. 

5.1.4. All tests require the services of a physician, and a crash cart with current dated 

drugs and equipment at the test scene. 

5.1.5. Test subjects are used for evaluation of SCBA of one-hour or less duration 

(unless specific application is in the mining industry and mine inspectors and 

rescue and recovery personnel are utilized for SCBA greater than one hour 

duration. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 9 of 34 

TEST SUBJECTS CHECK LIST

Test Subject MSHA Personnel 

 1-week Notice 2-week Notice 

1. ______Arrange Test Dates 1. ______ Arrange Test Dates 

 2. ______Confirm with Letter 

(A) Confirm M.D. Availability 

 1.______ on planned test dates 

 2. ______ call Manufacturer (test dates) 

 3. ______Test Prep. Sheet and Man Test Sheet 

(B) Subject Arrival 

 1. ______Orientation (Data Sheets) 

 2. ______ Subject Read Protocol 

 3. ______ Subject Sign NIOSH HSRB Document B 

 4. ______ Orientation on Exercise Equipment 

 5. ______ Explain Respirator Operation 

(C) ______ Conduct Tests 

(D) ______ Meet and Review Comments 

(E) ______ Pay Participants 

(F) ______ Write Letter of Appreciation 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 10 of 34 

OUTLINE (TEST SUBJECT SAFEGUARDS)

I. Presubmission - Manufacturer performs tests, as required by Part 84, on their apparatus to 

demonstrate conformance to regulations. 

II. Apparatus Testing 

(A) Laboratory tests performed 

1. Must meet all applicable performance requirements 

2. Must be of safe design 

(B) Modifications must be made by manufacturer and apparatus retested for performance 

III. Pre-subject preparation 

 (A.) All testing personnel have current CPR training and certificates 

 (B.) Notices of subject tests are sent to appropriate NIOSH personnel including: 

1. Staff involved in testing 

2. Physician who is on call 

3. Front desk guard 

4. Administrative Officer 

IV. Pre-test preparation 

 (A.) Physician and Team Leader have pagers for immediate notification of: 

1. Emergency 

2. Problems 

 (B.) Test subject receives a physical examination by Physician 

1. Must meet all physical requirements 

2. Must be referred by Physician as satisfactory 

 (C.) Test subject orientation 

2. If new, tries out work exercise equipment 

3. Is given information regarding test apparatus 

4. Reads and signs HSRB document to safeguard subject 

5. Reads protocol (test) 

6. Given opportunity to ask questions 

7. Is told that he is permitted to stop test anytime for any reason he feels justified 

8. Asked if he is prepared to begin test 

V. Testing 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 11 of 34 

A. Two personnel present during tests 

B. Crash cart present with current drugs and calibrated defibrillator 

C. Subject monitored for oxygen concentration. CO2 levels, resistance, temperatures, 

respirations, pulse rate (test stopped if regulations levels are exceeded). 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 12 of 34 

BEFORE-EACH-MAN-TEST CHECK LIST

1. Suction Machine 

2. Batteries and Bulbs in Laaryngoscope 

3. Batteries and Bulbs in Flashlight 

4. Dates on Medication 

5. Check O2 Cylinder 

6. Unlock Crash Cart 

Date Checked Signature Task Number Unit Man Test No.

___________ ____________ ___________ ____ ___________ 

___________ ____________ ___________ ____ ___________ 

___________ ____________ ___________ ____ ___________ 

___________ ____________ ___________ ____ ___________ 

 ___________ 

 ___________ 

 ___________ 

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5.2. Data Analysis 

5.2.1. All sample values must be within the regulations requirements. Other factors are 

also evaluated during the tests, such as; strap length, position and adjustments; 

comfort; weight; profile; total performance. Expert test subjects give test 

feedback and opinions for the SCBA evaluated and are geared towards: 

5.2.2. General comments 

5.2.3. Specific comments per intended application. 

Note: This test should be done on a minimum of two respirators, or more if additional testing is 

required (42 CFR, Part 84, Sections 84.12, 84.30, and 84.60.) 

6. PASS/FAIL CRITERIA

6.1. The criterion for passing this test is set forth in 42 CFR, Part 84, Subpart G, Section 

84.63(a)(c)(d), and Subpart H, Section 84.79, 84.97, 84.99, 84.100, 84.103, Volume 60, 

Number 110, June 8, 1995. 

6.2. This test establishes the standard procedure for ensuring that: 

84.63 Test requirements; general. 

(a) Each respirator and respirator component shall when tested by the applicant and by 

the Institute, meet the applicable requirements set forth in subparts H through L of this 

part. 

(c) In addition to the minimum requirements set forth in subparts H through L of this 

part, the Institute reserves the right to require, as a further condition of approval, any 

additional requirements deemed necessary to establish the quality, effectiveness, and 

safety of any respirator used as protection against hazardous atmospheres. 

(d) Where it is determined after receipt of an application that additional requirements will 

be required for approval, the Institute will notify the applicant in writing of these 

additional requirements, and necessary examinations, inspections, or tests, stating 

generally the reasons for such requirements, examinations, inspections, or tests. 

84.79 Breathing gas; minimum requirements 

(a)-1 Breathing gas used to supply apparatus shall be respirable and contain no less than 

19.5 (dry atmosphere) volume percent of oxygen. 

(a)-2 Breathing gas used to supply positive-pressure closed-circuit-specific to mixed gas 

requirements exposure in facepiece to user (See Fed. Regs. Pub. Vol. 50/No. 222/11-18-

85) shall not exceed 30% O2 on tests 2 and 4 during regular scheduled sampling periods 

using routine syringe averaging sampling techniques. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 14 of 34 

Additionally, any sample greater than 40% oxygen on tests 1, 3 and 5 shall 

constitute a failure. 

(b) Oxygen, including liquid oxygen, shall contain not less than 99.0 percent, by volume, 

of pure O2, not more than 0.03%, by volume, carbon dioxide, and not more than 0.001%, 

by volume, carbon monoxide. Methods for making these determinations can be found in 

the U.S. Pharmacopeia National Formulary. Containers used for oxygen must not be 

treated with any toxic, sleep-inducing, narcosis-producing, or respiratory tract irritating 

compounds. 

(c) Compressed, gaseous breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade 

requirements for Type I gaseous air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association 

Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade D or higher quality). G-7.1 is 

incorporated by reference and has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register 

in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from 

American National Standards Institute, Inc., 1430 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10018. 

Copies may be inspected at the NIOSH, Respirator Branch, 1095 Willowdale Road, 

Morgantown, W.V. 26505-2888, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North 

Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. 

(d) Compressed, liquefied breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade 

requirements for Type II liquid air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association 

Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade B or higher quality). G-7.1 is 

incorporated by reference and has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register 

in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from 

American National Standards Institute, Inc., 1430 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10018. 

Copies may be inspected at the NIOSH, Respirator Branch, 1095 Willowdale Road, 

Morgantown, W.V. 26505-2888, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North 

Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. 

84.97 Test for carbon dioxide in inspired gas; open- and closed-circuit apparatus; 

maximum allowable limits. 

(b) Closed-circuit apparatus. The concentration of carbon dioxide in inspired gas in 

closed-circuit apparatus will be measured at the mouth while the parts of the apparatus 

contributing to dead-air space are mounted on a dummy head and operated by the 

breathing machine as in paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section. 

(c) During the testing required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the concentration 

of carbon dioxide in inspired gas at the mouth will be continuously recorded, and the 

maximum average concentration during the inhalation portion of the breathing cycle shall 

not exceed the following limits: 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 15 of 34 

Where the service time is Maximum allowable average 

concentration of carbon dioxide in 

inspired air percent by volume 

Not more than 30 minutes...... 2.5 

1 hour....................... 2.0 

2 hours...................... 1.5 

3 hours...................... 1.0 

4 hours...................... 1.0 

(d) In addition to the test requirements for closed-circuit apparatus set forth in paragraph 

(b) of this section, gas samples will be taken during the course of the man tests described 

in Tables 1, 2, 3 and 4. These gas samples will be taken from the closed-circuit apparatus 

at a point downstream of the carbon dioxide sorbent, and they shall not contain more than 

0.5 percent carbon dioxide at any time, exception apparatus for escape only, using a 

mouthpiece only, the sample shall not contain more than 1.5 percent carbon dioxide at 

any time. 

84.99 Man tests; testing conditions; general requirements. 

(a) The man tests described in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4 represent the workload performed in 

the mining, mineral, or allied industries by a person wearing the apparatus tested. 

(b) The apparatus tested will be worn by personnel trained in the use of self-contained 

breathing apparatus, and the wearer will, before participating in these tests, pass a 

physical examination conducted by a qualified physician. 

(c) All man tests will be conducted by the Institute. 

(d) The apparatus will be examined before each man test to ensure that it is in proper 

working order. 

(e) Breathing resistance will be measured within the facepiece or mouthpiece and the 

wearer's pulse and respiration rate will be recorded during each 2-minute sample period 

prescribed in tests 1, 2, 3, and 4. 

(f) Man tests 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 will be conducted in duplicate. 

(g) If man tests are not completed through no fault of the apparatus, the test will be 

repeated. 

84.100 Man tests 1, 2, 3, and 4; requirements. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 16 of 34 

Man tests 1, 2, 3, and 4, set forth in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively, prescribe the 

duration and sequence of specific activities. These tests will be conducted to: 

(a) Familiarize the wearer with the apparatus during use; 

(b) Provide for a gradual increase in activity; 

(c) Evaluate the apparatus under different types of work and physical orientation; and 

(d) Provide information on the operating and breathing characteristics of the apparatus 

during actual use. 

84.103 Man tests; performance requirements. 

(a) The apparatus shall satisfy the respiratory requirements of the wearer for the classified 

service time. 

(b) Fogging of the eyepiece shall not obscure the wearer's vision, and the wearer shall not 

experience undue discomfort because of fit or other characteristics of the apparatus. 

(c) When the ambient temperature during testing is 24 degrees + 6 degrees C. (75 degrees 

+ 10 degrees F.), the maximum temperature of inspired air recorded during man tests 

shall not exceed the following, after correction for deviation from 24 degrees C. (75 

degrees F.): 

Maximum permissible temperature of 

inspired air shall not exceed-- 

Where service life of 

apparatus is-- 

Where percent 

relative humidity of 

inspired air is-- 

 1/4 hour or less 0-100 135 57 

 1/2 hour to 3/4 hour 0-50 

50-100 

125 

1

110 

52 

1

43 

1 to 2 hours 0-50 

50-100 

115 

1

105 

46 

1

41 

3 hours 0-50 

50-100 

110 

1

100 

43 

1

38 

4 hours 0-50 

50-100 

105 

1

95 

41 

1

35 

1

Where percent relative humidity is 50-100 and apparatus is designed for escape only, these maximum 

permissible temperatures will be increased by 5EC (10EF). 

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Tables to Subpart H of Part 84 

Table 1-Duration and Sequence of Specific Activities for Test 1, in Minutes 

[42 CFR part 84, subpart H] 

 Activity Service time- 

 

15 minutes 30 minutes 

45 minutes 1 hour 2, 3, and 4 

hours 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 Perform 1 

hour test 2, 3, 

or 4 times 

respectively 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

3 5 3 4 8 12 18 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 3 5 8 12 18 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 6 13 16 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 

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Table 2-Duration and Sequence of Specific Activities For Test 2, in Minutes 

[42 CFR part 84, subpart H] 

Activity Service time3 minutes 5 minutes 10 minutes 15 minutes 30 minutes 45 minutes 1 hour 2, 3 and 4 

hours1 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 2. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 1 3 4 6 10. 

Carries 23 kg. (50 

pound) weight over 

overcast 

 1 time in 2 

minutes 

1 time in 2 

minutes 

2 times in 4 

minutes 

3 times in 6 

minutes 

4 times 

in 8 

minutes 

5 times in 

10 

minutes. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 3 3 3 5. 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill 2 (or 

equivalent) 

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 1 2 3 5. 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill (or 

equivalent) 

 1 1 1 1. 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 2 2 3 5 11. 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill (or 

equivalent) 

 1 1 1 1 1. 

Carries 23 kg. (50 

pound) weight over 

overcast 

 1 time in 2 

minutes 

3 times in 6 

minutes 

4 times in 8 

minutes 

5 times 

in 10 

minutes 

5 times in 

10 

minutes. 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 3 3 3 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill (or 

equivalent) 

 1 1 1 1 Then 

repeat 

above 

activities 

once. 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 2 2 3 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill (or 

equivalent) 

 1 1 

Carries 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight and 

walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

1 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

1 2 1 4 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 

1

Total test time for Test 2 for 2-hour, 3-hour, and 4-hour apparatus is 2 hours. 

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2

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Table 3-Duration and Sequence of Specific Activities For Test 3, in Minutes 

[42 CFR part 84, subpart H] 

 Activity Service time3 minutes 5 minutes 10 minutes 15 minutes 30 minutes 45 minutes 1 hour 2, 3 and 4 

hours1

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 (2

) 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 1 2 2 3 

Runs at 9.7 km. (6 

miles) per hour 

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

Pulls 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight to 5 

feet. 

 15 times in 

1 minute 

 30 times in 

2 minutes 

30 times in 

2 minutes 

30 times in 

2 minutes 

60 times 

in 6 

minutes 

Lies on side 1/2 1 1 2 3 4 5 

Lies on back 1/2 1 1 2 2 3 3 

Crawls on hands 

and knees 

1 1 1 2 2 2 2 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 

Runs at 9.7 km. (6 

miles) per hour 

 1 1 1 1 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 2 8 10 

Pulls 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight to 5 

feet. 

 30 times in 

2 minutes. 

 60 times in 

6 minutes. 

60 times in 

6 minutes 

60 times 

in 6 

minutes 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. (3 

miles) per hour 

 1 3 4 10 

Lies on side 2 4 

Lies on back 2 1 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 

1

Total test time for Test 3 for 2-hour, 3-hour, and 4-hour apparatus is 2 hours. 

2

Perform test No. 3 for 1 hr. apparatus; then perform test No. 1 for 1 hour apparatus. 

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Table 4-Duration and Sequence of Specific Activities for Test 4, in Minutes 

[42 CFR part 84, subpart H] 

 Activity Service time3 

minutes 

5 

minutes 

10 

minutes 

15 

minutes 

30 

minutes 

45 

minutes 

1 hour 2 

hours 

3 

hours 

4 hours 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 (2) (3) (4) 

Walks at 4.8 km. 

(3 miles) per hour 

 1 2 2 2 

Climbs vertical 

treadmill 1 (or 

equivalent) 

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

Walks at 4.8 km. 

(3 miles) per hour 

 1 1 1 2 2 2 

Pulls 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight to 

5 feet 

 30 times 

in 2 

minutes 

30 times 

in 2 

minutes 

30 times 

in 2 

minutes 

60 times 

in 5 

minutes 

60 times 

in 5 

minutes 

60 times in 

5 minutes 

 

Walks at 4.8 km. 

(3 miles) per hour 

 1 1 1 2 3 

Carries 23 kg. (50 

pound) weight 

over overcast 

 1 time in 

1 minute 

1 time in 

1 minute 

2 times 

in 3 

minutes 

4 times in 

8 minutes 

 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. 

(3 miles) per hour 

 1 3 3 4 

Runs at 9.7 km. 

(6 miles) per hour 

 1 1 1 1 1 1 

Carries 23 kg. (50 

pound) weight 

over overcast 

 1 time in 

1 minute 

1 time in 

1 minute 

2 times 

in 3 

minutes 

4 times 

in 6 

minutes 

6 times in 

9 minutes 

 

Pulls 20 kg (45 

pound) weight to 

5 feet 

15 times 

in 1 

minute 

 15 times 

in 1 

minute 

60 times 

in 5 

minutes 

30 times 

in 2 

minutes 

36 times in 

3 minutes 

 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 2 2 

Walks at 4.8 km. 

(3 miles) per hour 

1 1 2 6 

Pulls 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight to 

5 feet 

 60 times 

in 5 

minutes 

60 times in 

5 minutes 

 

Carries 20 kg. (45 

pound) weight 

and walks at 4.8 

km. (3 miles) per 

hour 

 3 3 

Sampling and 

readings 

 2 2 

1

Treadmill shall be inclined 15E from vertical and operated at a speed of 30 cm. (1 foot) per second. 

2

Perform test No. 1 for 30-minute apparatus; then perform test No. 4 for 1-hour apparatus; then perform 

test No. 1 for 30-minute apparatus. 

3

Perform test No. 1 for 1-hour apparatus; then perform test No. 4 for 1-hour apparatus; then perform test 

No. 1 for 1-hour apparatus. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 22 of 34 

4

Perform test No. 1 for 1-hour apparatus; then perform test No. 4 for 1-hour apparatus; then perform test 

No. 1 for 1-hour apparatus twice (i.e., two one-hour tests). 

7. RECORDS\TEST SHEETS

7.1. All test data will be recorded on the MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING 

APPARATUS test data sheet. 

7.2. All videotapes and photographs of the actual test being performed, or of the tested 

equipment shall be maintained in the task file as part of the permanent record. 

7.3. All equipment failing any portion of this test will be handled as follows: 

7.3.1. If the failure occurs on a new certification application, or extension of approval 

application, send a test report to the RCT Leader and prepare the hardware for 

return to the manufacturer. 

7.3.2. If the failure occurs on hardware examined under an Off-the-Shelf Audit the 

hardware will be examined by a technician and the RCT Leader for cause. All 

equipment failing any portion of this test may be sent to the manufacturer for 

examination and then returned to NIOSH. However, the hardware tested shall be 

held at the testing laboratory until authorized for release by the RCT Leader, or 

his designee, following the standard operating procedures outlined in Procedure 

for Scheduling, and Processing Post-Certification Product Audits, RB-SOP0005-00. 

 Test/Data Sheets 

1. Four Hour Man Test(1,2,3,&4)--Example of Work and Sample Schedule. 

 Figures 

1. Overcast (NIOSH) 

2. Overcast (U.S.BOM) 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 23 of 34 

MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS #1 - 4 HOUR

PROJECT NO: DATE : __________ 

Subject: Age : __________ 

Subject weight: Initial - Final - ______________ 

 

RESPIRATOR TYPE: 4 hr positive pressure 

Unit weight: Initial - Final - ______________ 

Observers: ________________________________________________________________________ 

 Sampling Schedule

Time/Min. Gas Percent Pulse Resp. Resistance Temperature Press. 

 CO2 02 bpm rpm inh. exh. unit amb. gauge

 0-2 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 20-22 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 

 40-42 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 

 58-62 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 80-82 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 100-102 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 118-122 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 140-142 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 160-162 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 178-182 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 200-202 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 220-222 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 238-240 __________________________________________________________________________ 

alarm - ________ min. at _____ psig. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 24 of 34 

 WORK Schedule

 Time/Min. Exercise

2-20 walk - 3mph 

22-40 walk - 3mph 

 42-58 walk - 3mph 

 62-80 walk - 3mph 

 82-100 walk - 3mph 

102-118 walk - 3mph 

122-140 walk - 3mph 

142-160 walk - 3mph 

162-178 walk - 3mph 

182-200 walk - 3mph 

202-220 walk - 3mph 

222-238 walk - 3mph 

Comments : 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________ 

Test Engineer: PASS FAIL________ 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 25 of 34 

MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS #2 - 2, 3, and 4 HOUR

PROJECT NO: DATE : __________ 

Subject: Age : __________ 

Subject weight: Initial - Final - _______________ 

 

RESPIRATOR TYPE: 4 hour 

Unit weight: Initial - ________________ Final - _______________ 

Observers: ________________________________________________________________________ 

 Sampling Schedule

Time/Min. Gas Percent Pulse Resp. Resistance Temperature Press. 

 CO2 02 bpm rpm inh. exh. unit amb. gauge

 0-2 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 34-36 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 58-62 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 94-96 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

118-120 __________________________________________________________________________ 

Comments : 

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Test Engineer: PASS FAIL________ 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 26 of 34 

 WORK Schedule

 Time/Min. Exercise

0-2 sample 

2-12 walk - 3mph 

12-22 carry wt.- overcast (5x10) 

22-27 walk - 3mph 

27-28 vertical treadmill 

28-33 walk - 3mph 

33-34 vertical treadmill 

34-36 sample 

36-47 walk - 3mph 

47-48 vertical treadmill 

48-58 carry wt.- overcast (5x10) 

58-62 sample 

62-72 walk - 3mph 

72-82 carry wt.- overcast (5x10) 

82-87 walk - 3mph 

87-88 vertical treadmill 

88-93 walk - 3m 

93-94 vertical treadmill 

94-96 sample 

96-107 walk - 3mph 

107-108 vertical treadmill 

108-118 carry wt.- overcast (5x10) 

118-120 sample 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 27 of 34 

MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS #3 - 2, 3, and 4 HOUR

PROJECT NO: DATE : __________ 

Subject: Age : __________ 

Subject weight: Initial - Final - _______________ 

RESPIRATOR TYPE: 4 hour 

Unit weight: Initial - Final - _______________ 

Observers: ________________________________________________________________________ 

 Sampling Schedule

Time/Min. Gas Percent Pulse Resp. Resistance Temperature Press. 

 CO2 02 bpm rpm inh. exh. unit amb. gauge

 0-2 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 22-24 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 41-43 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 58-62 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 80-82 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 100-102 __________________________________________________________________________ 

 118-120 __________________________________________________________________________ 

Comments : 

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________ 

Test Engineer: PASS FAIL________ 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 28 of 34 

WORK Schedule

 Time/Min. Exercise

0-2 sample 

2-5 walk - 3mph 

5-6 run - 6mph 

6-12 rope pull - 60x6min 

12-17 lie on side 

17-20 lie on back 

20-22 crawl on hands & knees 

22-24 sample 

24-25 run - 6mph 

25-35 walk - 3mph 

35-41 rope pull - 60x6min 

41-43 sample 

43-53 walk - 3mph 

53-57 lie on side 

57-58 lie on back 

58-62 sample 

62-80 walk - 3mph 

80-82 sample 

82-100 walk - 3mph 

100-102 sample 

102-118 walk - 3mph 

118-120 sample 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 29 of 34 

MAN TESTS, SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS #4 - 4 HOUR

PROJECT NO: DATE : __________ 

Subject: Age : __________ 

Subject weight: Initial - Final - _______________ 

RESPIRATOR TYPE: 4 hour 

Unit weight: Initial - Final - _______________ 

Observers: ________________________________________________________________________ 

 Sampling Schedule

Time/Min. Gas Percent Pulse Resp. Resistance Temperature Press 

 CO2 02 bpm rpm inh. exh. unit amb. gauge

 0-2 _____________________________________________________________________________ 

 20-22 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 40-42 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 58-62 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 83-85 ____________________________________________________________________________ 

 102-104 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 118-122 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 140-142 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 160-162 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 178-182 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 200-202 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 220-222 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

 238-240 ___________________________________________________________________________ 

Alarm - __________ min. at _________ psig. 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 30 of 34 

 Work Schedule

Time/Min. Exercise

0-2 sample 

2-20 walk - 3mph 

20-22 sample 

22-40 walk - 3mph 

40-42 sample 

42-58 walk - 3mph 

58-62 sample 

62-64 walk - 3mph 

64-65 vertical 

65-67 walk - 3mph 

67-72 rope pull - 60x5min 

72-75 walk - 3mph 

75-83 overcast - 4x8min 

83-85 sample 

85-89 walk - 3mph 

89-90 run - 6mph 

90-99 overcast - 6x9min 

99-102 rope pull - 36x3min 

102-104 sample 

104-110 walk - 3mph 

110-115 rope pull - 60x6min 

115-118 carry 45lb weight & walk 3mph 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 31 of 34 

Work Schedule (cont)

Time/Min. Exercise

118-122 sample 

122-140 walk - 3mph 

140-142 sample 

142-160 walk - 3mph 

160-162 sample 

162-178 walk - 3mph 

178-182 sample 

182-200 walk - 3mph 

200-202 sample 

202-220 walk - 3mph 

220-222 sample 

222-238 walk - 3mph 

238-240 sample 

Comments : 

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Test Engineer: PASS FAIL________ 

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Procedure No. RCT-ASRS-STP-0140 Revision: 1.1 Date: 12 September 2005 Page 34 of 34 

Revision History 

Revision Date Reason for Revision 

1.0 16 March 2001 Historic document 

1.1 12 September 

2005 

Update header and format to reflect lab move from Morgantown, WV 

No changes to method 

 

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