5.1 This test method is intended to determine the ignition resistance and burning characteristics of materials used in protective clothing, where flame resistance is not the primary form of protection designated.
5.1.1 Flame resistance is a distinctive property of clothing items designated for isolating parts of the body from anticipated flame hazards. It is possible that protective clothing designated for isolation from other hazards, such as those for chemical or biological protection, neither have flame resistance nor isolate the wearer from flame hazards. This test method can be used to evaluate the effects of flame impingement on protective clothing where flame resistance is not the primary objective of protection.
5.1.2 When flame resistance is the primary protection offered by the protective clothing, alternative test methods can be used. A test method that is useful for evaluating flame resistance of textiles is Test Method D6413. Classification Index D4723 contains descriptions and guidance on other flammability test methods for textiles.
5.1.3 This test method is useful to determine the ignition resistance and burning characteristics of materials used in protective clothing not designated for flame resistance when the outer material surface is exposed to the flame. As such, it is particularly suited to protective clothing materials that are composed of different layers such as coated fabrics, laminates, or multilayer clothing systems.
5.2 Alternative procedures for conducting either a 3-s or 12-s exposure are provided where one or the other flame application exposure times are applied. The choice of either the shorter or longer single exposure time is provided to permit an assessment of the effects for flame impingement on materials under short term and long term flame exposure conditions.