ASTM F 1506 : 2019

1.1This performance specification identifies minimum performance requirements to determine the (a) arc rating of fabrics, (b) flame resistance of fabrics and subassemblies, (c) mechanical durability of the fabrics and subassemblies, (d) the minimum garment construction and performance requirements, and (e) the garment labeling requirements for the completed protective clothing worn by workers exposed to flames and electric arcs.

1.2This performance specification does not address coated or laminated protective clothing commonly used for rainwear applications in an arc hazard environment. Performance requirements related to this category of protective clothing are detailed in Specification F1891.

1.3This performance specification does not address hand protection. Performance and test requirements related to hand protection are detailed in OSHA 1910.138, Specification D120, and Test Method F2675/F2675M.

1.4The care and maintenance requirements for laundering electric arc flash protective clothing are outside the scope of this standard. Refer to Guides F1449 or F2757 related to industrial or home laundering.

1.5This standard should be used to evaluate and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions. It should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.6The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 7, of this performance specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.