The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has approved the Scott Model Air-Pak 4.5 respirator and Interspiro Models Spiromatic S3 and Spirotek S3 9030, 6630 and 4530 respirators for occupational use by emergency responders against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear agents.

The Scott device is manufactured by Scott Health and Safety, Monroe, N.C. It's a self-contained breathing apparatus that provides users with air from a pressurized cylinder or tank carried on the back.

The Interspiro devices are manufactured by Interspiro USA Inc., Branford, Conn. They are open-circuit, pressure-demand SCBAS.

The approvals signify that the products are expected to protect firefighters and other responders from cbrn agents in the line of duty. NIOSH based its determination on positive results from rigorous laboratory tests, evaluation of product specifications for the device, and assessment of the manufacturer's quality control procedures.

The action allows the manufacturers to label the approved devices as NIOSH-certified for occupational use by emergency responders. It does not constitute a commercial endorsement of the product.

NIOSH tested and evaluated the device under criteria announced in December 2001 for certifying SCBAS for occupational use by first responders against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents.

The criteria built on NIOSH's existing program for certifying respirators for occupational use in traditional workplace settings such as factories, construction sites, and health care facilities.

NIOSH is continuing to test and evaluate other SCBAS submitted for certification. For further information on the certification program, contact NIOSH at 800-35-NIOSH, or visit the their Web page, www.cdc.gov/niosh.