where to test masks ?

For protective masks and other personal protective equipment, at least EU type examination is necessary (for most of the PPE concerned in this crisis also a follow-up of the production by a Notified Body is required). Only Notified Bodies can do this step - the list of Notified Bodies for PPE can be found on https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/nando/index.cfm?fuseaction=directive.notifiedbody&dir_id=155501 - you can search by type of product in this list to find a Notified Body competent for your product (our member BSIF made a video on how to use the NANDO database).

 

Lists of accredited laboratories for masks

The European Accreditation organisation EA has published a list of laboratories accredited for testing of masks (both protective and medical) - click here for the list of EA (list can be downloaded towards the end of this page).

Remark :

  • There are laboratories that are able to test masks but are not (yet) accredited (e.g. laboratories that typically work on research). Also, not all European accredited laboratories for protective masks are notified body for respiratory protection.
  • On this page of the EA there is also a link to the list of Chinese accredited laboratories for masks published by CNAS (Chinese national accreditation body - direct link for list updated on 31/08/2020 is https://www.cnas.org.cn/english/photonews/06/903064.shtml

 

Make sure to verify the scope of accreditation (for which standards) or notification (Notified Body for which legislation and for which products) as both systems are used for a wide range of products and tests.

 

In collaboration with Euratex and EDANA, a list is made available of laboratories that can do testing for medical and protective masks as well as those that can certify the protective masks. The list is being updated regularly. If you have information to complete this list, please inform Henk Vanhoutte at ESF (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

This list is available for download on https://www.edana.org/how-we-take-action/covid-19/testing-labs-for-masks-and-EU-standards

Contact us

Do you want to have more information, don't hesitate to contact us:

E.S.F. ivzw
Bavikhoofsestraat 190 - 8531 Bavikhove - Belgium
Phone +32 56 70 11 03 -www.eu-esf.org - email: info@eu-esf.org

VAT: BE0454 000 382 - RPR Business Court Gent - Division Kortrijk
Transparency register EC: 91447653655-65


Disclamer ESF

The information contained in this communication (letter, e-mail, on the ESF website or in documents available for download on the ESF website or as attachment to letter or e-mail, etc..) is intended for guidance only and whilst the information is provided in utmost good faith and has been based on the best information currently available, is to be relied upon at the users own risk.ESF will not accept any direct or indirect liability deriving from it. No representations or warranties are made with regards to its completeness or accuracy and no liability will be accepted for damages of any nature whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance on the information. The guidance is based on available legislation and information and the interpretation of that legislation/information by ESF. Each company based on its own decision-making process may decide to use the guidance in full, partially or not, as it suits its needs but no liability shall be attributable to ESF.
   

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