Standards and labels

• EN 143:2021

  EN 143:2021 is a European standard for particle filter respirator mask. It defines the minimum requirements for filter efficiency, filter penetration, and breathing resistance, as well as the test methods used to determine compliance with these requirements. The standard also specifies the types of particle filters that can be used in respirator masks and the information that must be provided by manufacturers. Possible test results include filter efficiency, filter penetration, breathing resistance, which must meet the minimum standards set by the standard.

  Test results

  P3

  The P3 result in the standard EN 143:2021 pertains to classification of filter penetration performance for respiratory protective devices. A result classified as P3 indicates a very high filtration efficiency, enabling the respiratory filter to capture at least 99.95% of airborne particles, making them suitable for environments with toxic particles. The testing method applied for this assessment involves passing an aerosol through the filter material and then measuring the number of particles in the aerosol before and after it passes through to determine the percentage of penetration. While the test typically employs sodium chloride or paraffin oil as the test aerosol, the use of dioctyl phthalate (DOP) is optional. Utilizing a robust testing setup, such as a particle generator, a particle size selector, and qualified measurement instrumentation, the results ensure a reliable measure of filter performance under specified conditions. For procurement professionals, understanding that a filter meets the P3 classification assures that the respiratory protective devices offer high level protection against very fine particles, making them essential for heavy industrial, pharmaceutical, or healthcare settings where high airborne particle concentrations are common.

• PPE Category 3

  PPE stands for "personal protective equipment." PPE Category 3 refers to equipment that is complex and provide the highest level of protection such as powered respirators, SCBA, and full body suits. In Europe, PPE Category 3 must meet certain safety standards set by the European Union, which means that it must be designed and manufactured to protect the user without causing harm. Companies that make or sell PPE must prove that it meets these standards. They also must have a quality management system in place, have to be audited regularly by a notified body and have to have a technical documentation.

• CE Marking

  CE Marking is a label that shows a product meets certain safety and environmental standards set by the European Union. To get the CE Marking, a company must test and certify their product meets these standards. CE Marking is required for many products sold in the EU, including electronics, machinery, toys and medical devices. It helps ensure that products are safe for consumers and the environment, and allows for easy trade within the EU.