Approval Tests and Standards for Closed-Circuit Escape Respirators

This final rule announces updated requirements that the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH or Agency), located within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS or Department), will employ to test and approve closed-circuit respirators used for escaping atmospheres considered to be immediately dangerous to life and health, including such respirators required by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) for use in underground coal mines. NIOSH and MSHA jointly review and approve this type of respirator used for mine emergencies under regulations concerning approval of respiratory protective devices. NIOSH also approves these respirators for use in other work environments where escape equipment may be provided to workers, such as on vessels operated by U.S. Navy and Coast Guard personnel. The purpose of these updated requirements is to enable NIOSH and MSHA to more effectively ensure the performance, reliability, and safety of CCERs.