ASTM E2952-23 - Standard Specification for Air-Purifying Respiratory Protective Smoke Escape Devices (RPED)

1.1 This specification covers the minimum requirements for the design, performance, testing, and certification of air-purifying respiratory protective smoke escape devices for immediate emergency evacuation without entry/re-entry.

1.2 The purpose of this specification shall be to provide minimum requirements for respiratory protective escape devices that provide limited protection for 15 min for escape from the by-products of fire, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, other toxic gases, and the effects of radiant heat.

1.3 The requirements of this specification specify an air-purifying respiratory protective escape device with a laboratory-tested 15-min service life intended to provide head, eye, and respiratory protection from particulate matter, irritants, and toxic gases and vapors commonly produced by fire.

1.4 Controlled laboratory tests that are used to determine compliance with the performance requirements of this specification shall not be deemed as establishing performance levels for all situations to which individuals can be exposed.

1.5 This specification shall not apply to the requirements for provision, installation, or use of air-purifying respiratory protective smoke escape devices.

1.6 This specification shall not apply to respiratory protective escape devices intended for use in circumstances in which an oxygen deficiency (oxygen less than 19.5 % by volume) exists or might exist.

1.7 This specification is not intended to be used as a detailed manufacturing or purchase specification, but shall be permitted to be referenced as a minimum requirement in purchase specifications.

1.8 The conformity assessment requirements of Guide F3050, Model C, shall apply to the certification of products in accordance with this specification.

1.9 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.11 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.