Overview
ISO 17420-6:2021 specifies performance requirements for special-application escape respiratory protective devices (RPD) - covering both filtering RPD (escape respirators) and supplied breathable gas RPD intended for workplace escape use. The standard defines classification, design and performance criteria, required tests and inspection/marking and information manufacturers must supply. It focuses on protecting the wearer during emergency escape scenarios and complements the general and product-specific parts of the ISO 17420 series.
Key topics and technical requirements
This part of ISO 17420 addresses technical areas essential to escape RPD performance:
- Classification and labelling for escape types (e.g., ES MN t for underground mining, ES MA t for marine, ES FF t for fire), including nominal service life (t minutes).
- General and basic requirements applicable to both filtering and supplied breathable gas escape RPD.
- Special application requirement matrices that identify which tests apply to each escape class.
- Performance tests and validation, including:
- Resistance to flame, heat and contact with hot/cold surfaces
- Mechanical strength and resistance to drop, vibration and shock
- Antistatic properties and avoidance of frictional sparks
- Eye irritation (external) and other wearer-safety criteria
- Determination of duration (nominal service life) and leak-tightness tests (positive pressure)
- Pre-conditioning procedures (salt spray, pressure changes, impact) to simulate realistic environmental exposure before performance testing.
- Inspection, marking and required manufacturer information for safe use and traceability.
- Test methods reference the ISO 16900 series and other ISO/IEC/EN standards for specific measurement procedures.
Practical applications and users
ISO 17420-6 is intended for:
- RPD manufacturers and designers developing escape respirators and supplied-air escape devices.
- Product conformity assessors and certification bodies validating performance claims.
- Occupational health & safety professionals, procurement teams and safety managers in industries with escape-critical risks (mining, marine, firefighting, confined spaces, industrial plants).
- Regulators and standardization committees harmonizing workplace escape device requirements.
Using ISO 17420-6 helps ensure escape RPD meet consistent performance, safety and labeling expectations for emergency egress scenarios.
Related standards
Key linked documents include:
- ISO 17420-1, -2, -4 (general, filtering and supplied breathable gas RPD requirements)
- ISO 16900 series (test methods)
- ISO 17420 series (other parts)
- IEC/EN standards referenced for explosive atmospheres, EMC and environmental testing
Keywords: ISO 17420-6, respiratory protective devices, escape RPD, filtering RPD, supplied breathable gas RPD, performance requirements, workplace safety, escape respirators.
Open preview (PDF)Respiratory protective devices — Performance requirements — Part 6: Special application escape - Filtering RPD and supplied breathable gas RPD
