National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)

The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL) is a research facility within the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that focuses on developing and testing protective equipment like masks, respirators, and other gear. Its goal is to ensure that such equipment provides effective protection against hazards like infectious diseases, chemicals, and airborne particles. NPPTL conducts scientific evaluations, certifies safe products, and works with manufacturers and health agencies to improve personal protective gear, ultimately helping keep workers and the public safe during health emergencies and occupational exposures.