ISO 17420-6:2021

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.