ASTM F3352/F3352M : 23

1.1 This specification establishes minimum requirements for the performance and labeling of isolation gowns intended for use by healthcare workers to provide protection for standard and transmission-based precautions. The intended use of this specification is to ensure the performance properties of isolation gowns for the protection of the wearer. Four levels of barrier properties for isolation gowns are specified in ANSI/AAMI PB 70, and are included in this specification for reference purposes.

1.2 There are other types of gowns that are used in healthcare settings, including: cover gowns, procedure gowns, comfort gowns, precaution gowns, and open-back gowns. All gowns not meeting the definition of isolation gown in 3.1.7 as defined by ANSI/AAMI PB70 are excluded from this standard.

1.3 This specification does not address protective clothing used for surgical applications, such as surgical gowns or decontamination gowns; protective clothing for the hands, such as surgical gloves, patient examination gloves, or other medical gloves; protective clothing for the head, such as goggles or face shields, surgical caps or hoods, surgical masks, or respirators; protective clothing for the feet, such as operating room shoes, shoe covers, or surgical boots; or other types of protective clothing and equipment worn by healthcare providers.

1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.