)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is in the process of evaluating regulatory changes to permit the approval of various Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) combination respirators and CBRN Supplied Air Respirators (SAR). Because of the diversity of designs and configurations possible, NIOSH has decided to proceed with the process in phases rather than attempt a global change for all possible combinations and supplied air systems.
The predominant area of interest and the first step will be CBRN SCBA respirators in combination with CBRN Air Purifying Respirators (APR). As such, the initial concept will target a CBRN Open Circuit SCBA in combination with a CBRN non-powered air purifying tight fitting full facepiece respirator (CBRN APR) and/or a CBRN tight fitting full facepiece powered air purifying respirator (CBRN PAPR) where the air purifying portion of the PAPR must also function in a non-powered mode.
Concurrent with the combination CBRN SCBA concept, NIOSH is also proceeding with a concept for a CBRN supplied air respirator (SAR) which will consist of a type C or CE tight fitting positive pressure, pressure demand CBRN supplied air equipped with a minimum of a 15 minute escape cylinder.
Accompanying this notification are two concepts outlining the requirements that NIOSH views as important for evaluation of such respirators These topics will be discussed at the October 12, 2006 NIOSH public meetings (See at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/resources/pressrel/letters/lttr-101206.html ).Sincerely,
William A. Hoffman
Chief, Policy and Standards Development Branch
National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory
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