ASTM F1154 : 24

Standard Practices for Evaluating the Comfort, Fit, Function, and Durability of Protective Ensembles, Ensemble Elements, and Other Components

Standard Details

1.1 These practices are intended for evaluating protective ensembles and ensemble elements to determine the suitability of the ensemble or ensemble components in a work environment on the basis of its comfort, fit, function, and durability.

1.1.1 Option A is a manned exercise scenario intended to evaluate the impact of the ensembles and ensemble elements on wearer mobility when worn in a series of different physical exercises that are intended to evaluate the range of motion permitted by the ensemble or ensemble element.

1.1.2 Option B is a manned work task scenario intended to determine the impact of the ensemble or ensemble element on wearer function.

1.1.3 Recording the length of time used to complete these tasks provides a means for quantifying the impact of the ensemble or ensemble element on the wearer function.

1.1.4 Relating the ability of the subject to completely perform all tasks provides a qualitative assessment for the impact of the ensemble or ensemble element on wearer function.

1.1.5 The optional evaluation of ensembles or ensemble elements for liquid or vapor integrity following the exercise protocols provides a basis for evaluating the impact of wearing on ensemble or ensemble element integrity.

1.1.6 The optional evaluation of donning and doffing instructions provides a basis for evaluating the potential for errors which may impact the effectiveness of the ensemble.

1.2 These practices apply to protective ensembles and certain ensemble elements that are used for protection against different chemical, biological, physical, thermal, and other hazards, but are primarily useful for ensembles that include barrier layers such as liquid splash protective ensembles used for protection against hazardous chemicals or highly infectious diseases, or vapor protective ensembles used for chemical protection.

1.3 The values as stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.

1.4 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. Specific safety precautions are given in Section 7.

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