EN 13274-1:2001

Overview

EN 13274-1:2001 is a CEN European Standard that defines laboratory test methods for measuring inward leakage and total inward leakage of respiratory protective devices (RPD). The standard sets out the general procedure for determining leakage for:

• facepieces (inward leakage of the facepiece),
• RPD inward leakage excluding filter penetration, and
• total inward leakage of RPD (including all paths).

Two measurement techniques are described: one using a sodium chloride aerosol and one using a tracer gas (sulfur hexafluoride, SF6). The standard also covers sample preparation, selection of test subjects, the test procedure and the calculation method for leakage values.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope of measurement: Distinguishes between inward leakage of facepieces, inward leakage excluding filter penetration, and total inward leakage.
• Test methods: Two accepted detection media - sodium chloride aerosol and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas - for quantifying leakage into the breathing zone.
• Sample preparation: Requirements for how devices are conditioned and presented for testing to ensure representative results.
• Test subjects and fit: Procedures for selecting and using human test subjects (or representative headforms) to evaluate realistic inward leakage under standardized exercises.
• Measurement and calculation: Defined approach for collecting concentration data and calculating leakage metrics (total inward leakage percentages and related statistics).
• Repeatability and reporting: Emphasis on reproducible procedures and clear reporting of test conditions and results.

Applications and Who Uses It

EN 13274-1:2001 is used by:

• RPD manufacturers for product design, quality control and demonstrating compliance with European performance requirements.
• Independent test laboratories and certification bodies to produce objective inward leakage data for type approval and CE marking processes.
• Occupational safety professionals and procurement teams to compare respirator performance and select suitable PPE for workplace hazards.
• Regulators and standards committees when harmonizing test protocols and performance criteria.

Benefits include improved understanding of respirator fit, verification of real-world protection levels, and consistent, comparable leakage data for product evaluation and purchasing decisions.

Related Standards

Relevant complementary standards often referenced with EN 13274-1:2001 include other EN standards for respiratory protective devices (for example EN standards covering filtering half masks and full face masks), test methods for filter penetration and ergonomics, and national/international PPE conformity standards.