Which agency is responsible for setting the design, testing, and certification standards for SCBA equipment?

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is responsible for setting the design, testing, and certification standards for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment. NIOSH establishes the protocols that ensure the safety and effectiveness of protective respiratory equipment used by firefighters and other emergency responders in hazardous environments. Their standards are crucial for maintaining the health and safety of individuals who rely on SCBA to protect against toxic atmospheres.

While other agencies such as OSHA and the NFPA play significant roles in workplace safety and fire protection standards, respectively, it is NIOSH's specific focus on health-related research and the establishment of safety equipment standards that directly relates to SCBA. This distinction is important for understanding the regulatory landscape around protective gear.