Breathing Air Quality
Assurance that your air fed respirators are free of contaminants and impurities.
NOHH Ltd provides breathing air quality testing for air-fed respirator systems to ensure compliance with UK standards. Drawing on decades of occupational hygiene experience, this page outlines testing requirements, applicable regulations and how to arrange breathing air quality assessment for your site.
Why Breathing Air Quality Testing is Essential
Breathing air is supplied to respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when employees work in hazardous environments. If contaminated, this air can present serious risks to health. Typical applications include paint spraying, powder handling, confined space work, toxic gas use, and emergency spill response.
Because compressed air is often taken from a factory’s general system, any impurities in the compressor or pipework must be filtered to prevent them being passed directly to the operator. Regular testing ensures the air meets strict safety standards.
Standards and Legal Requirements
NOHH Ltd carries out testing in line with:
BS EN 12021:2014 – Compressed air for breathing apparatus
BS EN 529 – Respiratory protective devices: selection, use, care, and maintenance
COSHH Regulations – Ensuring RPE and breathing air are properly maintained
HSG53 – HSE guidance on respiratory protective equipment at work
What We Test
Our service measures all parameters specified by BS EN 12021, including:
Carbon monoxide
Carbon dioxide
Oil (mist and vapour)
Water content / dew point
Odour and taste
Total particulates
Airflow and temperature
We also assess site-specific risks such as solvent vapours or nitrous fumes where relevant.
Frequency of Testing
Breathing air should be tested at least every month. This can be reduced to every 3 months when satisfactory conditions are consistently met.
Reporting and Compliance
All results are fully documented, with clear identification of non-compliance and recommended corrective actions. Records are retained to demonstrate compliance with COSHH requirements.
Our Service
Newcastle Occupational Health & Hygiene Ltd provides:
On-site testing to BS EN 12021 standards
Comprehensive reports and remedial recommendations
Advice on compressor location, filtration, and system layout
Support with ongoing testing schedules to maintain compliance
North East based, working nationwide across the UK.
