NPPTL Respirator Assessments to Support the COVID-19 Response

International Assessment Results – Not NIOSH-approved

NPPTL has completed International Assessments for the products listed below.

NPPTL makes no representation as to the authenticity of the samples received and assessed. As part of its standard respirator approval process for NIOSH-approved respirators, NIOSH conducts a comprehensive quality assurance review of the quality process and manufacturing site. None of these reviews were conducted during this limited assessment. Further, no certificates of approval were provided with the samples. Therefore, validation of the claims that the product meets a particular international standard cannot be made.

For each model listed, ten respirators were submitted for evaluation. The samples were tested using a modified version of NIOSH Standard Test Procedure (STP) TEB-APR-STP-0059. Only particulate filter efficiency was assessed. The results of these tests are for the sample tested and may or may not be representative of a larger lot or population of similar respirators. The results of any filter penetration test can only be used to provide a check of the product’s filter efficiency. No conclusions can be made regarding equivalency to N95 products that are NIOSH approved.

No certificates of approval were provided with the samples received. Therefore, the authenticity of the claims, that the product meets a particular international standard, cannot be validated.

These assessments are not a part of the NIOSH respirator approval process and will in no way lead to or preclude NIOSH approval through the official approval process.

These assessments were developed as an assessment of the filter efficiency for those respirators represented as certified by an international certification authority, other than NIOSH, to support the availability of respiratory protection to US healthcare workers and other workers due to the respirator shortage associated with COVID-19.

Most of these products have an ear loop design. NIOSH-approved N95s typically have head bands. Furthermore, limited assessment of ear loop designs, indicate difficulty achieving a proper fit. While filter efficiency shows how well the filter media performs, users must ensure a proper fit is achieved.

These results are not to be used by manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and importers to make claims about their products and/or to influence purchasers.