A common question we receive from manufacturers is: “If I offer accessories with my product, what testing do these require?” The answer, perhaps frustratingly, is not always straightforward.
Many of the older standards for respiratory protective devices (RPDs) do not clearly define how accessories should be assessed. This lack of clarity can leave manufacturers uncertain about their obligations, particularly when offering a wide range of optional or integrated add-ons.
More recent standards are beginning to address this gap. For example, EN 12941:2023 introduces a clearer expectation: “When the RPD manufacturer states that an accessory is intended for use with the RPD, the RPD including the accessory shall be tested.”
This is an important shift. It recognises that accessories are not simply add-ons, they are components that can directly influence the performance, safety and compliance of the overall system.
However, even with updated standards, challenges remain. Accessories can vary significantly and may include items such as:
- Hearing defenders
- Welding visors
- Lights
- Chin straps
- Communication systems
Given this diversity, even broader standards such as EN 134:2024 stop short of explicitly defining what constitutes an accessory. This leaves room for interpretation with the manufacturer.
So, how should manufacturers approach this?
Our recommended approach is to assess accessories systematically, clause by clause against the relevant standard. For each clause, we evaluate how an accessory could influence compliance and performance. From there, we develop a bespoke test plan that reflects a realistic worst-case configuration.
This ensures that:
- All accessories are appropriately considered.
- Interactions between components are accounted for.
- The final system is tested as it will be used.
In our experience, accessories can have the most significant impact in areas such as:
- Practical performance.
- Mass and weight distribution.
- Flammability.
- Inward leakage.
In summary
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to testing accessories. As standards evolve, the expectation is increasingly clear: if you supply it as part of the system, it must be considered as part of the system.
If you have a project involving accessories, speak to us to see how we can help devise a bespoke test plan tailored to your product and its intended use.