The Part 84 certification regulation provides for nine classes of filters(three levels of filter efficiency,with three categories of resistance to filter efficiency degradation).The three levels of filter efficiency are 95%,99%,and 99.97%.The three categories of resistance to filter efficiency degradation are labeled N(Not resistant to oil),R(Resistant to oil),and P(oil Proof).These new certification categories apply only to nonpowered,air-purifying,particulate-filter respirators.PAPRs for particulates will be approved only with high-efficiency filters.PAPRs will not be approved with DM or DFM filters under Part 84.This rule also eliminates the combination categories of paint spray and pesticide respirator approvals;however,other combination respirators(e.g.,particulates and acid gases or organic vapors)will be certified under Part 84.
Except for the particulate-filter standards,most of the existing regulations are incorporated into the new 42 CFR part 84 without change.The revised testing standards for particulate filters will significantly improve the effectiveness of air-purifying filters in removing toxic particulates from the ambient air.These changes are consistent with two decades of advances in respiratory protection technology.
Under the new particulate filter tests,NIOSH will certify three classes of filters,N-,R-,and P-series,with three levels of filter efficiency,95%,99%,and 99.97%,in each class.All filter tests will employ the most penetrating aerosol size,0.3µm aerodynamic mass median diameter.The N-series will be tested against a mildly degrading aerosol of sodium chloride(NaCl).The R-and P-series filters will be tested against a highly degrading aerosol of dioctylphthalate(DOP):
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