9020.00.60.00 - Other breathing appliances and gas masks 🖩

This HTS category, 9020.00.60.00, encompasses a broad range of breathing appliances and gas masks that do not fall under more specific classifications within heading 90.20. It includes devices designed to supply breathing gas to a user, often for medical purposes or to filter air in environments with hazardous atmospheres. Examples include positive-pressure breathing apparatus for medical treatment, ventilators, and specific types of respiratory protection that utilize mechanical components or replaceable filters to purify inhaled air.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 9020.00.40.00, which is exclusively for underwater breathing devices designed as complete, self-contained units for personal wear. Category 9020.00.60.00 excludes such self-contained underwater units but includes other breathing apparatus. Furthermore, this category specifically excludes protective masks that lack any mechanical parts or replaceable filters; such items would typically be classified elsewhere based on their primary function and material construction.

As a leaf node, 9020.00.60.00 represents a final classification for these "other" breathing appliances and gas masks. Classification within this subcategory hinges on the presence of mechanical parts or replaceable filters, and the absence of characteristics that would place it in the underwater breathing device category. Importers should carefully consider the design, operational principles, and intended use of their goods to ensure accurate classification.