In a typical evaluation, NIOSH conducts the following approval tests:
- Positive Pressure Test [§ 84.70(a)(2)(ii)], STP-0120
- Rated Service Time (duration) [§ 84.95], STP-0121
- Gas Flow Test [§ 84.93], STP-0123
- Exhalation Breathing Resistance Test [§ 84.91(c)], STP-0122
- Static Facepiece Pressure Test [§ 84.91(d)], STP-0122
- Remaining Service Life Indicator Test (alarm) [§ 84.83(f)], STP-0124
NIOSH also conducts an Airflow Performance Test, in accordance with NFPA 1981.
These tests generally provide an indication of the SCBA’s overall performance. The SCBA’s condition or special circumstances surrounding the incident determines the addition or omission of certain performance tests. For example, NIOSH may perform a special inward leakage test if there is ambient air infiltration into the SCBA facepiece. NIOSH notes performance test failures but will not disassemble the SCBA to determine the cause of any test failure. NIOSH provides the evaluation’s findings to the requestor in a detailed report. NIOSH also publishes the evaluation reports on the NIOSH website.
Once the evaluation is complete, NIOSH securely stores the SCBA until further instruction from the requestor or a designated authority. NIOSH will maintain all chain of custody documentation per the requestor’s requirements, if applicable.
Please note that the results of testing are part of the public record and NIOSH cannot keep results confidential.