ISO/TS 16975-2:2016 PDF

Overview

ISO/TS 16975-2:2016 provides condensed guidance for establishing and implementing a respiratory protective device (RPD) programme. Intended as a practical, step‑wise technical specification, it helps employers and safety professionals select, use and maintain RPD that meet performance requirements. The document is especially aimed at small and medium enterprises and complements the more detailed ISO/TS 16975-1. It focuses on risk assessment, selection procedures, training, programme management and record keeping for respiratory protection.

Key topics and requirements

• Risk assessment: Identify hazardous substances, oxygen deficiency and task-specific exposure information (e.g., from SDS/MSDS and OELs). Use assessment results to determine the need for RPD.
• Selection process: A structured ten‑step approach including organization information, task description, hazard definition, protection class determination, work rate assessment, filter identification, supplied gas capacity, task and wearer factors, and final selection.
• Protection metrics: Guidance on using national Assigned Protection Factors (APF) or the ISO Protection Levels (PL) when determining adequate protection; APF are preferred where available.
• RPD types and classes: Distinguishes filtering RPD (filters, cartridges, powered units) and supplied breathable gas RPD (self‑contained or remote supply). Classification covers protection class (PC1–PC6), work rate (W1–W4) and interface type (tight‑fitting vs loose‑fitting).
• Training and use: Requirements for wearer training, correct donning/doffing, filter replacement and use of supplied air systems.
• Programme management and records: Ongoing management, maintenance schedules and retention of RPD selection records (Annex A provides a selection record template).

Practical applications and who uses it

• Employers and safety managers designing or improving an RPD programme
• Occupational hygienists and health & safety consultants advising on respiratory protection
• RPD programme administrators responsible for compliance, training and records
• RPD suppliers/manufacturers assisting customers with selection and fit considerations

Use this technical specification when selecting respiratory protection for workplace hazards (chemicals, particulates, vapours) except where specialist guidance applies.

Limitations / exclusions

ISO/TS 16975-2 is not suitable for: structural and wildland firefighting, CBRN incidents, certain marine and mining operations, escape devices, RPD for bioaerosols that cause infection, RPD used exclusively underwater, in aircraft, or medical life‑support respirators. For these, refer to ISO/TS 16975-1 and other specialist standards.

Related standards

• ISO/TS 16975-1 - Establishing and implementing RPD programmes (detailed guidance)
• ISO 16972 - Terms, definitions and symbols for RPD
• ISO/TS 16973 (classification guidance) and performance standards referenced within the ISO 16975 series

Keywords: ISO/TS 16975-2, respiratory protective devices, RPD programme, respiratory protection, selection use maintenance, APF, ISO protection levels, risk assessment.