Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles, 15636-15661 [E8-5569]

Agencies

• Consumer Product Safety Commission

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 58 (Tuesday, March 25, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15636-15661]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-5569]


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CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION

16 CFR Part 1610


Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles

AGENCY: Consumer Product Safety Commission.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Commission is amending its flammability standard for 
general wearing apparel, the Standard for the Flammability of Clothing 
Textiles, 16 CFR part 1610. The Standard, originally issued in 1953, 
has become outdated in several respects. The revisions better reflect 
current consumer practices and technologies and clarify several aspects 
of the Standard.

DATES: The rule is effective September 22, 2008. The incorporation by 
reference of the publication listed in this rule is approved by the 
Director of the Federal Register as of September 22, 2008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mary Toro, Directorate for Compliance 
and Field Operations, Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East 
West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4408; telephone (301) 504-7586; 
e-mail mtoro@cpsc.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

1. History of the Standard

    The Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles, 16 CFR part 
1610 (``the Standard'') dates back to the 1950s. Congress enacted the 
Flammable Fabrics Act (``FFA'') in 1953 (Pub. L. 83-88, 67 Stat. 111). 
It specified a test, a voluntary commercial standard then called 
``Flammability of Clothing Textiles, Commercial Standard (`CS') 191-
53,'' to be used to determine if fabric or clothing is ``so highly 
flammable as to be dangerous when worn by individuals.''
    When Congress established the Consumer Product Safety Commission in 
1972, it transferred to the Commission the authority the Secretary of 
Commerce had to issue and amend flammability standards under the FFA. 
15 U.S.C. 2079(b). In 1975, the Commission published the FFA of 1953 at 
16 CFR 1609 and codified the Standard for the Flammability of Clothing 
Textiles at 16 CFR 1610.

2. The Standard

    The Commission's revisions to the Standard will update and clarify 
it. The Standard describes a test apparatus and the procedures for 
testing clothing and textiles intended to be used for clothing. It 
establishes three classes of flammability. The classes are based on 
measurement of burn time, along with visual observations of flame 
intensity. The classes are: Class 1 or normal flammability; Class 2 or 
intermediate flammability; and Class 3 or rapid and intense burning. 
Clothing and textiles that are categorized as Class 3 under the 
prescribed test method are considered dangerously flammable. 16 CFR 
1610.4.
    The Standard prescribes the method of testing to determine the 
appropriate classification. Five specimens are subjected to a 
flammability tester. This is a draft-proof ventilated chamber 
containing an ignition medium, a sample rack and an automatic timing 
device. A swatch of each sample must be subjected to the dry cleaning 
and hand washing procedure prescribed by the Standard. To determine 
results, the average time of flame spread is taken for five specimens. 
However, if the time of flame spread is less than 4 seconds (3\1/2\ 
seconds for plain-surfaced fabrics), five additional specimens must be 
tested and the average time of flame spread for these ten specimens, or 
for as many of them as burn, must be taken. Classification is based on 
the reported results before and after dry cleaning and washing, 
whichever is lower.

3. The Products

    The products regulated under the Standard are clothing and fabrics 
intended to be used for clothing. The Standard applies to all items of 
clothing, and fabrics used for such clothing, whether for adults or 
children, for daywear or nightwear. The Commission has other 
regulations governing the flammability of children's sleepwear, 16 CFR 
parts 1615 and 1616, that are more stringent than the general wearing 
apparel flammability standard. The revisions discussed in this notice 
would not affect the children's sleepwear standards.

4. The Risk of Injury

    Fatalities where clothing was the first item ignited have declined 
from 311 fatalities in 1980 to 129 fatalities in 2004, the most recent 
year of available data. An average of 120 clothing fire-related 
fatalities occurred annually during 2002-2004. Population fatality 
rates increased with age. In addition, an estimated 3,947 non-fatal 
injuries were treated in hospital emergency departments annually (2003-
2005). Among these non-fatal injuries, 25 percent were serious enough 
to require admission to a hospital (compared to 5 percent for all 
consumer products).

B. Statutory Provisions

    Section 4 of the FFA sets forth the process by which the Commission 
can issue or amend a flammability standard. In accordance with that 
section, the Commission issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking 
(``ANPR'') on September 12, 2002, 67 FR 57770. The Commission issued a 
notice of proposed rulemaking (``NPR'') on February 27, 2007 containing 
the text of the proposed rule along with alternatives the Commission 
has considered and a preliminary regulatory analysis. 72 FR 8844. 
Before issuing a final rule, the FFA requires the Commission to prepare 
a final regulatory analysis, and make certain findings concerning any 
relevant voluntary standard, the relationship between costs and 
benefits of the rule, and the burden imposed by the regulation. 15 
U.S.C. 1193(j). In addition, the Commission must find that the Standard 
(1) is needed to adequately protect the public against the risk of the 
occurrence of fire leading to death, injury or significant property 
damage, (2) is reasonable, technologically practicable, and 
appropriate, (3) is limited to fabrics, related materials or products 
which present unreasonable risks, and (4) is stated in objective terms. 
Id. U.S.C. 1193(b).

C. Revisions

    The changes to the Standard reflect changes in consumer garment 
care practices and will make the Standard easier to understand. These 
changes are discussed below.
    Definitions. Some definitions have been revised and some new ones 
added to eliminate confusion. In particular, the meaning of the terms 
``base burn'' and ``surface flash'' have caused confusion in 
interpreting and reporting test results for raised surface textile 
fabrics. These terms are now defined in the Standard. In addition, 
several other relevant terms and definitions have been added. These 
terms include burn time, dry cleaning, flammability, flame application 
time, ignition, interlining, laundering, long dimension, plain surface 
textile fabric, raised surface textile fabric, refurbishing, sample, 
specimen, and stop thread supply.

[[Page 15637]]

    Changes to the flammability tester. The test chamber prescribed in 
the current Standard uses a mechanical timing mechanism and is no 
longer available for purchase. Apparel manufacturers and testing 
laboratories currently use more modern flammability test chambers that 
incorporate electro-mechanical components to apply the ignition flame 
and measure burn time. (The Standard allows alternate procedures if 
they are as stringent as the specified procedure.) A variety of such 
testers are available from a number of manufacturers. The revision 
describes the critical parameters of a modern flammability test 
apparatus and provides diagrams. In 1982, CPSC staff conducted some 
work comparing the flame impingement time of the electrical test 
chamber to that of a chamber with the mechanical timing device and 
found that the electrical test chamber readings were comparable to and 
more consistent than the manual test chamber readings. The revisions 
expressly permit the use of electro-mechanical devices to control and 
apply the flame impingement.
    Refurbishing methods. The Standard requires fabrics to be 
refurbished, that is, dry cleaned and laundered, one time before 
testing. The purpose of this requirement is to remove any non-durable 
solvent or water soluble treatment present on the fabric. It is not 
intended to replicate how the garment would be used or cared for by a 
consumer. Both the dry cleaning and laundering procedures prescribed by 
the current Standard are outdated. The Commission is revising these 
procedures to better reflect modern techniques for laundering and dry 
cleaning.
    The method of dry cleaning that the current Standard prescribes 
uses perchloroethylene in an open vessel. However, perchloroethylene 
has been shown to cause cancer in animal tests, and use in this manner 
violates regulations issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency. The Commission staff has not used this procedure since 1986. 
(The Standard allows alternate procedures if they are as stringent as 
the specified procedure.) Industry and independent laboratories have 
been using an alternative dry cleaning procedure provided in ASTM 
D1230, Standard Test Method for Apparel Flammability. This procedure 
uses perchloroethylene in a closed environment commercial dry cleaning 
machine for one cycle. The revision to the Standard prescribes a dry 
cleaning method based on the ASTM D1230 dry cleaning procedure.
    The soap specified in the handwashing procedure in the current 
Standard is no longer available. Most detergents are now non-phosphate 
based due to environmental concerns. The revision sets forth laundering 
requirements based on those prescribed in American Association of 
Textile Chemists and Colorists (``AATCC'') 124-2001, Appearance of 
Fabrics After Repeated Home Laundering. An earlier version of this test 
method was incorporated into other FFA standards in 2000. 65 FR 12924, 
12929, and 12935 (March 10, 2000).
    Test procedures. The revision reorganizes and rewrites the test 
procedure in a more logical step-by-step fashion to clarify the 
directions for selecting the surface or direction of the fabric to be 
tested, how to determine when testing five additional specimens is 
necessary, as well as how to conduct the flammability test.
    Test result interpretation and reporting. The current Standard 
provides no codes to report complex test results consistently which can 
be a problem when classification is more complex. The revision 
clarifies the instructions for calculating burn times and establishing 
the occurrence of a base burn. By defining the terms ``base burn'' and 
``surface flash'' in Sec.  1610.2, the revision provides further 
clarification for the reporting of test results for raised surface 
textile fabrics. The revision also specifies test result codes from 
CPSC's laboratory test manual. Uniform result codes will facilitate 
reporting accuracy and consistency, understanding of flammability 
performance, and resolution of test result differences among 
laboratories.
    Subpart B and Subpart C. The Commission is also making changes to 
subparts B and C of the Standard. To reduce confusion, some provisions 
concerning procedures for conducting the tests that are currently in 
subparts B and C are moved into subpart A. This should provide a more 
cohesive and clearer standard. Subpart C is substantially the same, but 
some language has been clarified to make it more consistent with 
subparts A and B, and the section describing the history of the FFA and 
the Standard has been removed.

D. Response to Comments on the NPR

    On February 27, 2007, the Commission published an NPR. 72 FR 8844. 
The Commission received eight written comments. These were mostly 
supportive and suggested minor editorial changes to the proposal. 
Specific issues raised by the comments are discussed below.

 1. Laundering and Dry Cleaning

    a. Comment. One commenter stated 60  3 [deg]C is too 
hot and another recommended a washing temperature consistent with the 
original standard.
    Response. Staff reviewed the proposed water temperature for the 
laundering portion of the section and agreed that the wash temperature 
of 60  3 [deg]C (140  5 [deg]F) in the proposed 
rule is too hot. The current Standard, which uses a hand wash 
procedure, specifies 95-100 [deg]F, with a rinse temperature of 80 
[deg]F. Since the proposal specifies machine washing, staff does not 
agree that it is appropriate to use a temperature suited to hand 
washing. The final amendments specify a wash temperature of 49  3 [deg]C (120  5 [deg]F). Staff believes this 
temperature is hot enough to remove any water soluble finishes from the 
fabric which may affect its flammability characteristics and is 
appropriate for a machine wash. The staff agrees that the most recent 
version of AATCC 124 should be referenced; the final amendments 
reference AATCC 124-2006.
    b. Comment. One commenter recommended allowing the use of a ``trial 
dry cleaner'' rather than a commercial dry cleaning machine.
    Response. The dry cleaning procedure in the proposed rule is 
similar but not identical to the procedure specified in ASTM D1230 
Standard Test Method for Flammability of Apparel Textiles, section 
9.2.1, Option B. The ASTM D1230 refurbishing procedure was found by 
staff and ASTM Committee D13 (Textiles) to be as stringent as the 
procedure specified in 16 CFR Part 1610. Because the dry cleaning 
method specified in the current Standard is illegal to perform in the 
United States, the industry and the CPSC staff have been using the ASTM 
D1230 section 9.2.1, Option B for many years. Staff does not have any 
data to indicate whether the use of a ``trial dry cleaner'' would be as 
stringent as the refurbishing procedure in ASTM D1230. The amount of 
detergent to be used in the dry cleaning procedure will depend on the 
capacity of the machine; this information is provided with the machine 
manufacturer's instructions.
    c. Comment. Three commenters disagreed with the specified ballast 
(80% wool fabric pieces and 20% polyester fabric pieces) in the 
proposal.
    Response. Upon further consideration, the staff has decided to 
change the specified ballast to 80% wool and 20% cotton to be 
consistent with internationally recognized dry cleaning standards.

[[Page 15638]]

    d. Comment. Two commenters questioned the need to dry clean samples 
in a load that is 80% of the dry cleaning machine's capacity and 
suggested that the load should be 100% of the load's capacity.
    Response. Staff concludes that the International Fabricare 
Institute's recommendation of 80% capacity is appropriate for proper 
dry cleaning.

2. Comments on Definitions

    a. Comment. Several commenters made suggestions for changes to the 
definitions in the proposal. Three commenters requested clarification 
of ``base burn'' and one commenter suggested a change to the definition 
of ``long dimension.''
    Response. Staff considers the proposed definition of ``base burn'' 
to be sufficiently clear. The definition includes specific burning 
characteristics that must be observed during and after each test in 
order to distinguish between a base burn at point of flame impingement 
and the type of base burn used to establish a Class 3 fabric, where the 
base burn starts at places on the specimen other than the point of 
flame impingement as a result of surface flash.
    b. Comment. One commenter suggested changing the ``long dimension'' 
definition to ``the 150mm (6 inch) length of test specimen (cut with 
the 6 dimension in the same orientation of the worst burning 
direction of the overall fabric).''
    Response. Staff does not agree because the long dimension is not 
always in the fastest burning direction of the fabric. For example, 
when preparing preliminary test specimens to determine the fastest 
burning direction of a plain surface textile fabric, the 6 inch length 
of each specimen will be in a different fabric direction.
    c. Comment. One commenter requested that a definition for ``coated 
fabrics'' be added to section 1610.33(a)(2).
    Response. Staff agrees and has added the definition for ``coated 
fabrics'' from ASTM D123-03 Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles.

 3. Comments on the Test Procedure

    a. Comment. One commenter suggested that cotton fabrics, being 
hydrophilic, should be tested in standard humidity rather than be 
subject to the conditioning oven and dessicator at 0% humidity. The 
commenter notes the proposed conditions are more stringent than likely 
``real world'' conditions and those specified in two international 
textile test methods.
    Response. Staff realizes that cotton responds quickly to changes in 
humidity, but concludes that testing cotton and cotton containing 
fabrics under the more severe atmospheric conditions in the current 
standard provides a greater level of safety than testing under standard 
textile testing conditions. Therefore, the staff has not changed the 
conditioning requirements.
    b. Comment. One commenter stated that the procedure for selecting 
test specimens in Sec.  1610.6(a)(3)(i), Raised surface textile 
fabrics--(i) Preliminary trials is confusing.
    Response. Staff has reviewed this language and concludes that this 
procedure is properly explained in the proposed rule; thus, the staff 
has not changed the language in the final rule. In addition, the 
commenter asked if there is a specific rate to be used when brushing 
raised-fiber surface textile fabrics. The Standard specifies only that 
the specimen be brushed at a uniform rate; no change was made in the 
proposal.

4. Comments on the Test Apparatus and Materials

    a. Comment. Several comments were received on the test apparatus 
and materials. Several commenters on the ANPR discussed the need for 
testing laboratories to be allowed to use more modern versions of the 
flammability test chamber.
    Response. In the proposed amendments the staff worked to achieve a 
balance between providing an appropriate description of the 
flammability test chamber, along with figures, without providing 
prescriptive requirements that would have limited the test chamber to a 
specific make and model.
    b. Comment. In response to the NPR, one commenter asked that more 
detailed information on the flammability test cabinet be specified in 
the Standard.
    Response. The final amendments provide additional details, 
including manufacturing tolerances and descriptive language, which the 
staff believes will be helpful but will not limit or discourage the use 
of modern equipment.

5. Comments on Exemptions, Reasonable and Representative Testing, and 
the Standard's Applicability to Specific Apparel Items

    a. Comment. One commenter asked what the justification was for the 
2.6 oz/yd\2\ exemption for all plain surface fabrics and asked for the 
historical information that formed the basis for the exemption. The 
commenter further requested that, if that information could not be 
provided, the exemption be lowered to 2.0 oz/yd\2\.
    Response. This information can be found at 49 FR 242; December 14, 
1984; 16 CFR part 1610 Standard for the Flammability of Clothing 
Textiles; Requirements for Testing and Recordkeeping to Support 
Guaranties. No change has been made to the exemptions.
    b. Comment. One commenter asked for clarification about the 
Standard's applicability to scarves.
    Response. The proposed amendment, like the current 16 CFR part 
1610, applies to scarves.
    c. Comment. One commenter asked that the Standard provide further 
guidance on reasonable and representative testing.
    Response. Guidance on developing a reasonable and representative 
testing program was issued by the Commission in 1998 and can be found 
at 63 FR 42697, August 11, 1998; Policy Statement--Reasonable and 
Representative Testing to Assure Compliance with the Standard for the 
Flammability of Clothing Textiles.

E. Final Regulatory Analysis

Introduction

    Section 4(j)(1) of the FFA requires that the Commission prepare a 
final regulatory analysis for a final regulation under the FFA and that 
it be published with the final rule. 15 U.S.C. 1193(j)(1). The 
following discussion, extracted from the staff's memorandum titled 
``Final Regulatory Analysis of Amendment to the Flammability Standard 
for Clothing Textiles,'' addresses this requirement.

Potential Benefits and Costs

    The clothing textiles Standard provides a minimum level of fire 
protection for articles of apparel worn by consumers. The amendments 
under consideration pertain to definitions and test methods, and are 
technical in nature. The amendments would not affect the substance or 
likely results of the performance tests in the Standard; the projected 
effectiveness of the Standard would neither increase nor decrease as a 
result. Thus, there would be no impact on the level or value of fire 
safety benefits (i.e., the reduced risk to the public of fire-related 
death, injury, or property damage) derived from the Standard.
    The amendment to the Standard is not expected to increase costs to 
manufacturers and importers of products that currently comply. These 
firms have, for a number of years, been conducting compliance tests 
using

[[Page 15639]]

methods and apparatus that would be allowed under the amendments. 
Overall, the amendments, if issued on a final basis, would not likely 
have any significant impact on apparel and fabric testing costs.
    On balance, the technical amendments would have no significant 
impact on expected benefits or costs of the flammability standard for 
clothing textiles. The amendment would simplify testing requirements 
and allow existing practices among manufacturers and importers subject 
to the standard.

Alternatives

    There is an existing U.S. voluntary standard for wearing apparel. 
This standard, ASTM D1230, ``Test Method for Flammability of Apparel 
Textiles,'' contains performance tests that are virtually identical to 
those in the existing FFA standard, but that are presented in a 
standard ASTM format with somewhat different language on some elements. 
The Commission could opt to use the ASTM standard language instead of 
the language of the amendments. The language of the CPSC's amendments 
is, however, clearer and more complete than that of the ASTM standard. 
The ASTM alternative would have no significant economic effects.
    An existing U.S. voluntary consensus standard for clothing textile 
washing procedures, AATCC Test Method 124-2006, is incorporated by 
reference in the amended federal standard. An international standard 
(ISO) test method also exists for apparel dry cleaning procedures. The 
Commission could opt to incorporate the provisions of this 
international standard into the amended federal standard, but they are 
no more clear or comprehensive than CPSC's amendments. Again, this 
alternative would have no significant economic effects.
    In summary, there are no readily available and technically feasible 
alternatives that would be significantly different from the 
Commission's amendments. Thus, no reasonable alternative would make the 
standard more effective or less costly.

F. Regulatory Flexibility Certification

    As discussed in the NPR, this rulemaking will have little or no 
effect on small businesses in the textile and apparel industries 
because the revisions are largely technical, updating the FFA Standard 
to current industry practices. Therefore, the Commission concludes that 
the amendment will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.

G. Environmental Considerations

    Because the revision continues current industry practices, it is 
not expected to alter production processes or affect the amounts of 
materials used in manufacturing, packaging or labeling. Therefore, the 
Commission does not expect the revision to have any environmental 
impacts.

H. Executive Orders

    Executive Order 12988 (February 5, 1996), requires agencies to 
state in clear language the preemptive effect, if any, to be given to a 
new regulation. The clothing standard amendment would modify a 
flammability standard issued under the FFA. The FFA provides, with 
certain exceptions which are not applicable in this instance, that no 
state or political subdivision of a state may enact or continue in 
effect ``a flammability standard or other regulation'' applicable to 
the same fabric or product covered by an FFA standard if the state or 
local flammability standard or other regulation is ``designed to 
protect against the same risk of the occurrence fire'' unless the state 
or local flammability standard or regulation ``is identical'' to the 
FFA standard. See section 16 of the FFA (15 U.S.C. 1203).

I. Effective Date

    Section 4(b) of the FFA (15 U.S.C. 1193(b)) provides that an 
amendment of a flammability standard shall become effective one year 
from the date it is promulgated, unless the Commission finds for good 
cause that an earlier or later effective date is in the public 
interest, and publishes that finding. Section 4(b) also requires that 
an amendment of a flammability standard shall exempt products ``in 
inventory or with the trade'' on the date the amendment becomes 
effective, unless the Commission limits or withdraws that exemption 
because those products are so highly flammable that they are dangerous 
for use by consumers.
    The Commission believes that a shorter effective date is in the 
public interest. The revisions reflect practices that industry and 
laboratories are currently following. Thus, the impact of the changes 
should be minimal. Moreover, making the clarifications in the revisions 
effective sooner than one year should be helpful to the public. 
Therefore, the revisions to the Standard become effective 180 days 
after publication in the Federal Register. As required by the FFA, 
products ``in inventory or with the trade'' would be exempt from the 
revised standard.

J. Findings

    Section 1193(a) and (j)(2) of the FFA require the Commission to 
make certain findings when it issues or amends a flammability standard. 
The Commission must find that the standard or amendment: (1) Is needed 
to adequately protect the public against the risk of the occurrence of 
fire leading to death, injury or significant property damage; (2) is 
reasonable, technologically practicable, and appropriate; (3) is 
limited to fabrics, related materials or products which present 
unreasonable risks; and (4) is stated in objective terms. 15 U.S.C. 
1193(b). In addition, the Commission must find that: (1) If an 
applicable voluntary standard has been adopted and implemented, that 
compliance with the voluntary standard is not likely to adequately 
reduce the risk of injury, or compliance with the voluntary standard is 
not likely to be substantial; (2) that benefits expected from the 
regulation bear a reasonable relationship to its costs; and (3) that 
the regulation imposes the least burdensome alternative that would 
adequately reduce the risk of injury. These findings are discussed 
below.
    The amendment to the Standard is needed to adequately protect the 
public against unreasonable risk of the occurrence of fire. The 
Standard dates from 1953. In the past fifty years changes in technology 
and consumer practices have made some parts of the Standard obsolete. 
Through the years, some have found the Standard's terminology and 
organization confusing and difficult to follow. The amendment will 
better reflect the modern practices followed by industry and consumers, 
and modifications in the language and organization of the Standard will 
enhance its clarity.
    The amendment to the Standard is reasonable, technologically 
practicable, and appropriate. The amendment essentially establishes in 
the Standard the practices currently followed by industry and testing 
laboratories. These changes should enhance the Standard's 
reasonableness, practicability, and appropriateness.
    The amendment to the Standard is limited to fabrics, related 
materials, and products that present an unreasonable risk. The 
amendment continues to apply to the same textiles as the existing 
Standard.
    Voluntary standards. The Standard is similar to ASTM D1230 Standard 
Test Method for Flammability of Apparel Textiles in methods of testing 
but significantly different in refurbishing procedures, terminology and 
criteria. The Commission believes that the

[[Page 15640]]

amendment will provide better clarity to industry and testing 
laboratories and therefore is likely to better address the risk of 
injury.
    Relationship of benefits to costs. Because the amendment reflects 
current practices, both anticipated costs and benefits are likely to be 
negligible.
    Least burdensome requirement. The amendment makes no substantive 
changes to the Standard, but only provides modifications that are 
necessary to update and clarify the Standard.

K. Conclusion

    For the reasons discussed above, the Commission finds that amending 
the clothing textile flammability standard is needed to adequately 
protect the public against the unreasonable risk of the occurrence of 
fire leading to death, injury, and significant property damage. The 
Commission also finds that the amendment to the Standard is reasonable, 
technologically practicable, and appropriate. The Commission further 
finds that the amendment is limited to the fabrics, related materials 
and products which present such unreasonable risks.

List of Subjects in 16 CFR Part 1610

    Clothing, Consumer protection, Flammable materials, Incorporation 
by reference, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Textiles, 
Warranties.

0
Therefore, the Commission amends Title 16 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations by revising part 1610 to read as follows:

PART 1610--STANDARD FOR THE FLAMMABILITY OF CLOTHING TEXTILES

Subpart A--The Standard
Sec.
1610.1 Purpose, scope and applicability.
1610.2 Definitions.
1610.3 Summary of test method.
1610.4 Requirements for classifying textiles.
1610.5 Test apparatus and materials.
1610.6 Test procedure.
1610.7 Test sequence and classification criteria.
1610.8 Reporting results.
Subpart B--Rules and Regulations
1610.31 Definitions.
1610.32 General requirements.
1610.33 Test procedures for textile fabrics and film.
1610.34 Only uncovered or exposed parts of wearing apparel to be 
tested.
1610.35 Procedures for testing special types of textile fabrics 
under the standard.
1610.36 Application of Act to particular types of products.
1610.37 Reasonable and representative tests to support guaranties.
1610.38 Maintenance of records by those furnishing guaranties.
1610.39 Shipments under section 11(c) of the Act.
1610.40 Use of alternative apparatus, procedures, or criteria for 
tests for guaranty purposes.
Subpart C--Interpretations and Policies
1610.61 Reasonable and representative testing to assure compliance 
with the standard for the clothing textiles.
FIGURE 1 TO PART 1610--SKETCH OF FLAMMABILITY APPARATUS
FIGURE 2 TO PART 1610--FLAMMABILITY APPARATUS VIEWS
FIGURE 3 TO PART 1610--SPECIMEN HOLDER SUPPORTED IN SPECIMEN RACK
FIGURE 4 TO PART 1610--AN EXAMPLE OF A TYPICAL INDICATOR FINGER
FIGURE 5 TO PART 1610--AN EXAMPLE OF A TYPICAL GAS SHIELD
FIGURE 6 TO PART 1610--IGNITER
FIGURE 7 TO PART 1610--BRUSHING DEVICE
FIGURE 8 TO PART 1610--BRUSH
FIGURE 9 TO PART 1610--BRUSHING DEVICE TEMPLATE

    Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1191-1204.

Subpart A--The Standard


Sec.  1610.1  Purpose, scope and applicability.

    (a) Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to reduce danger of 
injury and loss of life by providing, on a national basis, standard 
methods of testing and rating the flammability of textiles and textile 
products for clothing use, thereby prohibiting the use of any 
dangerously flammable clothing textiles.
    (b) Scope. The Standard provides methods of testing the 
flammability of clothing and textiles intended to be used for clothing, 
establishes three classes of flammability, sets forth the requirements 
which textiles shall meet to be classified, and warns against the use 
of those textiles which have burning characteristics unsuitable for 
clothing. Hereafter, ``clothing and textiles intended to be used for 
clothing'' shall be referred to as ``textiles.''
    (c) Specific exceptions. This standard shall not apply to: (1) 
Hats, provided they do not constitute or form part of a covering for 
the neck, face, or shoulders when worn by individuals;
    (2) Gloves, provided they are not more than 14 inches in length and 
are not affixed to or do not form an integral part of another garment;
    (3) Footwear, provided it does not consist of hosiery in whole or 
part and is not affixed to or does not form an integral part of another 
garment;
    (4) Interlining fabrics, when intended or sold for use as a layer 
between an outer shell and an inner lining in wearing apparel.
    (d) Specific exemptions. Experience gained from years of testing in 
accordance with the Standard demonstrates that certain fabrics 
consistently yield acceptable results when tested in accordance with 
the Standard. Therefore, persons and firms issuing an initial guaranty 
of any of the following types of fabrics, or of products made entirely 
from one or more of these fabrics, are exempt from any requirement for 
testing to support guaranties of those fabrics:
    (1) Plain surface fabrics, regardless of fiber content, weighing 
2.6 ounces per square yard or more; and
    (2) All fabrics, both plain surface and raised-fiber surface 
textiles, regardless of weight, made entirely from any of the following 
fibers or entirely from combination of the following fibers: acrylic, 
modacrylic, nylon, olefin, polyester, wool.
    (e) Applicability. The requirements of this part 1610 shall apply 
to textile fabric or related material in a form or state ready for use 
in an article of wearing apparel, including garments and costumes 
finished for consumer use.


Sec.  1610.2  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions given in Section 2 of the Flammable 
Fabrics Act as amended (15 U.S.C. 1191), the following definitions 
apply for this part 1610.
    (a) Base burn (also known as base fabric ignition or fusing) means 
the point at which the flame burns the ground (base) fabric of a raised 
surface textile fabric and provides a self-sustaining flame. Base 
burns, used to establish a Class 3 fabric, are those burns resulting 
from surface flash that occur on specimens in places other than the 
point of impingement when the warp and fill yarns of a raised surface 
textile fabric undergo combustion. Base burns can be identified by an 
opacity change, scorching on the reverse side of the fabric, or when a 
physical hole is evident.
    (b) Burn time means the time elapsed from ignition until the stop 
thread is severed as measured by the timing mechanism of the test 
apparatus.
    (c) Dry cleaning means the cleaning of samples in a commercial dry 
cleaning machine under the conditions described in Sec.  1610.6.
    (d) Film means any non-rigid, unsupported plastic, rubber or other 
synthetic or natural film or sheeting, subject to the Act, or any 
combination thereof, including transparent, translucent, and opaque 
material, whether plain, embossed, molded, or otherwise surface 
treated, which is in a

[[Page 15641]]

form or state ready for use in wearing apparel, and shall include film 
or sheeting of any thickness.
    (e) Flammability means those characteristics of a material that 
pertain to its relative ease of ignition and relative ability to 
sustain combustion.
    (f) Flame application time means the 1 second during which the 
ignition flame is applied to the test specimen.
    (g) Ignition means that there is a self-sustaining flame on the 
specimen after the test flame is removed.
    (h) Interlining means any textile which is intended for 
incorporation into an article of wearing apparel as a layer between an 
outer shell and an inner lining.
    (i) Laundering means washing with an aqueous detergent solution and 
includes rinsing, extraction and tumble drying as described in Sec.  
1610.6.
    (j) Long dimension means the 150 mm (6 in) length of test specimen.
    (k) Plain surface textile fabric means any textile fabric which 
does not have an intentionally raised fiber or yarn surface such as a 
pile, nap, or tuft, but shall include those fabrics that have fancy 
woven, knitted or flock-printed surfaces.
    (l) Raised surface textile fabric means any textile fabric with an 
intentionally raised fiber or yarn surface, such as a pile, including 
flocked pile, nap, or tufting.
    (m) Refurbishing means dry cleaning and laundering in accordance 
with Sec.  1610.6.
    (n) Sample means a portion of a lot of material which is taken for 
testing or for record keeping purposes.
    (o) Specimen means a 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 in) section of 
sample.
    (p) Stop thread supply means No. 50, white, mercerized, 100% cotton 
sewing thread.
    (q) Surface flash means a rapid burning of the pile fibers and 
yarns on a raised fiber surface textile that may or may not result in 
base burning.
    (r) Textile fabric means any coated or uncoated material subject to 
the Act, except film and fabrics having a nitro-cellulose fiber, 
finish, or coating, which is woven, knitted, felted or otherwise 
produced from any natural or manmade fiber, or substitute therefore, or 
combination thereof, of 50 mm (2 in) or more in width, and which is in 
a form or state ready for use in wearing apparel, including fabrics 
which have undergone further processing, such as dyeing and finishing, 
in garment form, for consumer use.


Sec.  1610.3  Summary of test method.

    The Standard provides methods of testing the flammability of 
textiles from or intended to be used for apparel; establishes three 
classes of flammability; sets forth the requirements for classifying 
textiles; and prohibits the use of single or multi-layer textile 
fabrics that have burning characteristics that make them unsuitable for 
apparel. All textiles shall be tested before and after refurbishing 
according to Sec.  1610.6. Each specimen cut from the textile shall be 
inserted in a frame, brushed if it has a raised-fiber surface, and held 
in a special apparatus at an angle of 45[deg]. A standardized flame 
shall be applied to the surface near the lower end of the specimen for 
1 second, and the time required for the flame to proceed up the fabric 
a distance of 127 mm (5 in) shall be recorded. A notation shall be made 
as to whether the base of a raised-surface textile fabric ignites or 
fuses.


Sec.  1610.4  Requirements for classifying textiles.

    (a) Class 1, Normal Flammability. Class 1 textiles exhibit normal 
flammability and are acceptable for use in clothing. This class shall 
include textiles which meet the minimum requirements set forth in 
paragraph (a)(1) or paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (1) Plain surface textile fabric. Such textiles in their original 
state and/or after being refurbished as described in Sec.  1610.6(a) 
and Sec.  1610.6(b), when tested as described in Sec.  1610.6 shall be 
classified as Class 1, Normal flammability, when the burn time is 3.5 
seconds or more.
    (2) Raised surface textile fabric. Such textiles in their original 
state and/or after being refurbished as described in Sec.  1610.6(a) 
and Sec.  1610.6(b), when tested as described in Sec.  1610.6, shall be 
classified as Class 1, Normal flammability, when the burn time is more 
than 7 seconds, or when they burn with a rapid surface flash (0 to 7 
seconds), provided the intensity of the flame is so low as not to 
ignite or fuse the base fabric.
    (b) Class 2, Intermediate flammability. Class 2 fabrics, applicable 
only to raised-fiber surface textiles, are considered to be of 
intermediate flammability, but may be used for clothing. This class 
shall include textiles which meet the minimum requirements set forth in 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section.
    (1) Plain surface textile fabric. Class 2 is not applicable to 
plain surface textile fabrics.
    (2) Raised surface textile fabric. Such textiles in their original 
state and/or after being refurbished as described in Sec.  1610.6(a) 
and Sec.  1610.6(b), when tested as described in Sec.  1610.6, shall be 
classified as Class 2, Intermediate flammability, when the burn time is 
from 4 through 7 seconds, both inclusive, and the base fabric ignites 
or fuses.
    (c) Class 3, Rapid and intense burning. Class 3 textiles exhibit 
rapid and intense burning, are dangerously flammable and shall not be 
used for clothing. This class shall include textiles which have burning 
characteristics as described in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this 
section. Such textiles are considered dangerously flammable because of 
their rapid and intense burning.
    (1) Plain surface textile fabric. Such textiles in their original 
state and/or after refurbishing as described in Sec.  1610.6(a) and 
Sec.  1610.6(b), when tested as described in Sec.  1610.6, shall be 
classified as Class 3 Rapid and Intense Burning when the time of flame 
spread is less than 3.5 seconds.
    (2) Raised surface textile fabric. Such textiles in their original 
state and/or after refurbishing as described in Sec.  1610.6(a) and 
Sec.  1610.6(b), when tested as described in Sec.  1610.6, shall be 
classified as Class 3 Rapid and Intense Burning when the time of flame 
spread is less than 4 seconds, and the base fabric starts burning at 
places other than the point of impingement as a result of the surface 
flash (test result code SFBB).

    Table 1 to Sec.   1610.4.--Summary of Test Criteria for Specimen
                             Classification
                           [see Sec.   1610.7]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Plain surface        Raised surface
            Class                textile fabric        textile fabric
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...........................  Burn time is 3.5      (1) Burn time is
                               seconds or more       greater than 7.0
                               ACCEPTABLE (3.5 sec   seconds; or
                               is a pass).          (2) Burn time is 0-7
                                                     seconds with no
                                                     base burns (SFBB).
                                                     Exhibits rapid
                                                     surface flash only.
                                                    ACCEPTABLE.

[[Page 15642]]

 
2...........................  Class 2 is not        Burn time is 4-7
                               applicable to plain   seconds (inclusive)
                               surface textile       with base burn
                               fabrics.              (SFBB).
                                                    ACCEPTABLE.
3...........................  Burn time is less     Burn time is less
                               than 3.5 seconds.     than 4.0 seconds
                               NOT ACCEPTABLE.       with base burn
                                                     (SFBB).
                                                    NOT ACCEPTABLE.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec.  1610.5  Test apparatus and materials.

    (a) Flammability apparatus. The flammability test apparatus 
consists of a draft-proof ventilated chamber enclosing a standardized 
ignition mechanism, sample rack, and automatic timing mechanism. The 
flammability apparatus shall meet the minimum requirements for testing 
as follows.
    (1) Test chamber--(i) Test chamber structure. The test chamber 
shall be a metal, draft-proof ventilated chamber. The test chamber 
shall have inside dimensions of 35.3 cm high by 36.8 cm wide by 21.6 cm 
deep (14 in by 14.5 in by 8.5 in). There shall be eleven or twelve 12.7 
mm diameter (0.5 in) holes equidistant along the rear of the top 
closure. The front of the chamber shall be a close fitting door with an 
insert made of clear material (i.e., glass, plexiglass) to permit 
observation of the entire test. A ventilating strip is provided at the 
base of the door in the front of the apparatus. The test chamber to be 
used in this test method is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 of this 
part.
    (ii) Specimen rack. The specimen rack provides support for the 
specimen holder (described in paragraph (a)(1)(iii) of this section) in 
which the specimen is mounted for testing. The angle of inclination 
shall be 45[deg]. Two guide pins projecting downward from the center of 
the base of the rack travel in slots provided in the floor of the 
chamber so that adjustment can be made for the thickness of the 
specimen in relation to the test flame. A stop shall be provided in the 
base of the chamber to assist in adjusting the position of the rack. 
The specimen rack shall be constructed so that: It supports the 
specimen holder in a way that does not obstruct air flow around the 
bottom edge of the fabric specimen; and the fabric specimen is properly 
aligned with the igniter tip during flame impingement. The specimen 
rack to be used in this test method is illustrated in Figures 1 through 
3 of this part. Movable rack: Refer to the manufacturers' instruction 
in relation to the adjustment procedure to move the rack into the 
appropriate position for the indicator finger alignment.
    (iii) Specimen holder. The specimen holder supports and holds the 
fabric specimen. The specimen holder shall consist of two 2 mm (0.06 
in) thick U-shaped matched metal plates. The plates are slotted and 
loosely pinned for alignment. The specimen shall be firmly sandwiched 
in between the metal plates with clamps mounted along the sides. The 
two plates of the holder shall cover all but 3.8 cm (1.5 in) of the 
width of the specimen for its full length. See Figures 1 and 3 of this 
part. The specimen holder shall be supported in the draft-proof chamber 
on the rack at an angle of 45[deg].
    (iv) Indicator finger. The position of the specimen rack (described 
in paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of this section) shall be adjusted, so the tip 
of the indicator finger just touches the surface of the specimen. An 
indicator finger is necessary to ensure that the tip of the test flame 
will impinge on the specimen during testing. The indicator finger to be 
used in this test method is illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 4 of this 
part.
    (v) Ignition mechanism. The ignition mechanism shall consist of a 
motor driven butane gas jet formed around a 26-gauge hypodermic needle 
and creates the test flame. The test flame shall be protected by a 
shield. See Figure 5. The test flame is adjusted to 16 mm (0.625 in) 
and applied to the specimen for 1 second. A trigger device is located 
in the front of the apparatus, the pulling or pushing of which 
activates the test flame impingement and timing device. Electro-
mechanical devices (i.e., servo-motors, solenoids, micro-switches, and 
electronic circuits, in addition to miscellaneous custom made cams and 
rods, shock absorbing linkages, and various other mechanical 
components) can be used to control and apply the flame impingement. See 
Figure 6 of this part.
    (vi) Draft ventilator strip. A draft ventilator strip shall be 
placed across the front opening, sealing the space between the sliding 
door when in lowered position and the base on which the grid rack is 
attached. (See Figure 1 of this part.)
    (vii) Stop weight. The weight, attached by means of a clip to the 
stop thread, in dropping actuates the stop motion for the timing 
mechanism. The weight shall be at least 30g (1.16 oz).
    (viii) Door. The door shall be a clear (i.e. glass or plexiglass) 
door, close fitting and allows for viewing of the entire test.
    (ix) Hood. The hood or other suitable enclosure shall provide a 
draft-proof environment surrounding the test chamber. The hood or other 
suitable enclosure shall have a fan or other means for exhausting smoke 
and/or fumes produced by testing.
    (2) Stop thread and thread guides--(i) Stop thread. The stop thread 
shall be stretched from the spool through suitable thread guides 
provided on the specimen holder and chamber walls.
    (ii) Stop thread supply. This supply, consisting of a spool of No. 
50, white, mercerized, 100% cotton sewing thread, shall be fastened to 
the side of the chamber and can be withdrawn by releasing the 
thumbscrew holding it in position.
    (iii) Thread Guides. The thread guides permit the lacing of the 
stop thread in the proper position exactly 127 mm (5 in) from the point 
where the center of the ignition flame impinges on the test specimen. 
The stop thread shall be 9.5 mm (0.37 in) above and parallel to the 
lower surface of the top plate of the specimen holder. This condition 
can be achieved easily and reproducibly with the use of a thread guide 
popularly referred to as a ``sky hook'' suspended down from the top 
panel along with two L-shaped thread guides attached to the upper end 
of the top plate of the specimen holder. Two other thread guides can be 
installed on the rear panel to draw the thread away from directly over 
the test flame. The essential condition, however, is the uniform height 
of 9.5 mm (0.37 in) for the stop thread and not the number, placement 
or design of the thread guides.
    (iv) Stop weight thread guide. This thread guide shall be used to 
guide the stop thread when attaching the stop weight.
    (3) Supply for test flame. (i) The fuel supply shall be a cylinder 
of chemically pure (c. p.) butane.
    (ii) The fuel-tank control valve shall consist of a sensitive 
control device for regulating the fuel supply at the tank.

[[Page 15643]]

    (iii) The flow control device, such as a manometer or flow meter, 
shall be sufficient to maintain a consistent flame length of 16 mm (\5/
8\ in).
    (4) Timing Device. The timing device consists of a timer, driving 
mechanism and weight. The timer, by means of special attachments, is 
actuated to start by connection with the gas jet. A trigger device 
(described in paragraph (a)(1)(v) of this section) activates the flame 
impingement, causing the driving mechanism to move the gas jet to its 
most forward position and automatically starts the timer at the moment 
of flame impact with the specimen. The falling weight, when caused to 
move by severance of the stop thread, stops the timer. Time shall be 
read directly and recorded as a burn time. Read burn time to 0.1 
second. An electronic or mechanical timer can be used to record the 
burn time, and electro-mechanical devices (i.e., servo-motors, 
solenoids, micro-switches, and electronic circuits, in addition to 
miscellaneous custom made cams and rods, shock absorbing linkages, and 
various other mechanical components) can be used to control and apply 
the flame impingement.
    (b) Specimen preparation equipment and materials.
    (1) Laboratory drying oven. This shall be a forced circulation 
drying oven capable of maintaining 105[deg]  3[deg] C 
(221[deg]  5[deg] F) for 30  2 minutes to dry 
the specimens while mounted in the specimen holders.
    (2) Desiccator. This shall be an airtight and moisture tight 
chamber capable of holding the specimens horizontally without 
contacting each other during the cooling period following drying, and 
shall contain silica gel desiccant.
    (3) Desiccant. Anhydrous silica gel shall be used as the desiccant.
    (4) Automatic washing machine. The automatic washing machine shall 
be as described in Sec.  1610.6(b)(1)(ii).
    (5) Automatic tumble dryer. The automatic tumble dryer shall be as 
described in Sec.  1610.6(b)(1)(ii).
    (6) Commercial dry cleaning machine. The commercial dry cleaning 
machine shall be capable of providing a complete automatic dry-to-dry 
cycle using perchloroethylene solvent and a cationic drycleaning 
detergent as specified in Sec.  1610.6(b)(1)(i).
    (7) Dry cleaning solvent. The solvent shall be perchloroethylene, 
commercial grade.
    (8) Dry cleaning detergent. The dry cleaning detergent shall be 
cationic class.
    (9) Laundering detergent. The laundering detergent shall be as 
specified in Sec.  1610.6(b)(1)(ii).
    (10) Brushing device. The brushing device shall consist of a base 
board over which a small carriage is drawn. See Figure 7 of this part. 
This carriage runs on parallel tracks attached to the edges of the 
upper surface of the base board. The brush is hinged with pin hinges at 
the rear edge of the base board and rests on the carriage vertically 
with a pressure of 150 gf (0.33 lbf). The brush shall consist of two 
rows of stiff nylon bristles mounted with the tufts in a staggered 
position. The bristles are 0.41 mm (0.016 in) in diameter and 19 mm 
(0.75 in) in length. There are 20 bristles per tuft and 4 tufts per 
inch. See Figure 8 of this part. A clamp is attached to the forward 
edge of the movable carriage to permit holding the specimen on the 
carriage during the brushing operation. The purpose of the metal plate 
or ``template'' on the carriage of the brushing device is to support 
the specimen during the brushing operation. The template shall be 3.2 
mm (0.13 in) thick. See Figure 9 of this part.


Sec.  1610.6  Test procedure.

    The test procedure is divided into two steps. Step 1 is testing in 
the original state; Step 2 is testing after the fabric has been 
refurbished according to paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
    (a) Step 1--Testing in the original state.
    (1) Tests shall be conducted on the fabric in a form or state ready 
for use in wearing apparel. Determine whether the fabric to be tested 
is a plain surface textile fabric or a raised surface textile fabric as 
defined in Sec.  1610.2 (k) and (l). There are some fabrics that 
require extra attention when preparing test specimens because of their 
particular construction characteristics. Examples of these fabrics are 
provided in paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (vi) of this section along 
with guidelines for preparing specimens from these fabrics. This 
information is not intended to be all-inclusive.
    (i) Flocked fabrics. Fabrics that are flocked overall are treated 
as raised surface textile fabrics as defined in Sec.  1610.2(l). Flock 
printed fabrics (usually in a pattern and not covering the entire 
surface) shall be treated as plain surface textile fabrics as defined 
in Sec.  1610.2(k).
    (ii) Cut velvet fabrics. Cut velvet fabrics with a patterned 
construction shall be considered a raised surface textile fabric as 
defined in Sec.  1610.2(l).
    (iii) Metallic thread fabrics. Metallic thread fabrics shall be 
considered plain surface textile fabrics provided the base fabric is 
smooth. The specimens shall be cut so that the metallic thread is 
parallel to the long dimension of the specimen and arranged so the test 
flame impinges on a metallic thread.
    (iv) Embroidery. Embroidery on netting material shall be tested 
with two sets of preliminary specimens to determine the most flammable 
area (which offers the greatest amount of netting or embroidery in the 
150 mm (6 in.) direction). One set of netting only shall be tested and 
the other set shall consist mainly of embroidery with the specimens cut 
so that the test flame impinges on the embroidered area. Test the most 
flammable area according to the plain surface textile fabric 
requirements. The full test shall be completed on a sample cut from the 
area that has the fastest burn rate.
    (v) Burn-out patterns. Flat woven constructions with burn-out 
patterns shall be considered plain surface textile fabrics as defined 
in Sec.  1610.2(k).
    (vi) Narrow fabrics and loose fibrous materials. Narrow fabrics and 
loose fibrous materials manufactured less than 50 mm (2 in) in width in 
either direction shall not be tested. If a 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 
in) specimen cannot be cut due to the nature of the item, i.e. hula 
skirts, leis, fringe, loose feathers, wigs, hairpieces, etc., do not 
conduct a test.
    (2) Plain surface textile fabrics: (i) Preliminary trials. Conduct 
preliminary trials to determine the quickest burning direction. The 
specimen size shall be 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 in). Cut one specimen 
from each direction of the fabric. Identify the fabric direction being 
careful not to make any identifying marks in the exposed area to be 
tested. Preliminary specimens shall be mounted and conditioned as 
described in paragraphs (a)(2)(ii) through (iv) of this section and 
then tested following the procedure in paragraph (c) of this section to 
determine if there is a difference in the burning characteristics with 
respect to the direction of the fabric.
    (ii) Identify and cut test specimens. Cut the required number of 
test specimens to be tested (refer to Sec.  1610.7(b)(1)). Each 
specimen shall be 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 in), with the long 
dimension in the direction in which burning is most rapid as 
established in the preliminary trials. Be careful not to make any 
identifying marks in the exposed area to be tested.
    (iii) Mount specimens. Specimens shall be placed in the holders, 
with the side to be burned face up. Even though plain surface textile 
fabrics are not brushed, all specimens shall be mounted in a specimen 
holder placed on the carriage that rides on the

[[Page 15644]]

brushing device to ensure proper position in the holder. A specimen 
shall be placed between the two metal plates of a specimen holder and 
clamped. Each specimen shall be mounted and clamped prior to 
conditioning and testing.
    (iv) Condition specimens. All specimens mounted in the holders 
shall then be placed in a horizontal position on an open metal shelf in 
the oven to permit free circulation of air around them. The specimens 
shall be dried in the oven for 30  2 minutes at 105[deg] 
 3[deg] C (221[deg]  5[deg] F), removed from 
the oven and placed over a bed of anhydrous silica gel desiccant in a 
desiccator until cool, but not less than 15 minutes.
    (v) Flammability test. Follow the test procedure in paragraph (c) 
of this section and also follow the test sequence in Sec.  
1610.7(b)(1).
    (3) Raised surface textile fabrics--(i) Preliminary trials. The 
most flammable surface of the fabric shall be tested. Conduct 
preliminary trials and/or visual examination to determine the quickest 
burning area. The specimen size shall be 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 
in). For raised surface textile fabrics, the direction of the lay of 
the surface fibers shall be parallel with the long dimension of the 
specimen. Specimens shall be taken from that part of the raised-fiber 
surface that appears to have the fastest burn time. For those fabrics 
where it may be difficult to visually determine the correct direction 
of the lay of the raised surface fibers, preliminary tests can be done 
to determine the direction of the fastest burn time. For textiles with 
varying depths of pile, tufting, etc., the preliminary test specimens 
are taken from each depth of pile area to determine which exhibits the 
quickest rate of burning. A sufficient number of preliminary specimens 
shall be tested to provide adequate assurance that the raised surface 
textile fabric will be tested in the quickest burning area. Preliminary 
specimens shall be mounted and conditioned as described below and 
tested following the procedure in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (ii) Identify and cut test specimens. Cut the required number of 
specimens (refer to Sec.  1610.7(b)(3)) to be tested. Each specimen 
shall be 50 mm by 150 mm (2 in by 6 in), with the specimen taken from 
the direction in which burning is most rapid as established in the 
preliminary trials and/or visual examination. Be careful not to make 
any identifying marks in the exposed area to be tested.
    (iii) Mount specimens. Prior to mounting the specimen, run a 
fingernail along the 150 mm (6 in) edge of the fabric not more than 6.4 
mm (0.25 in) in from the side to determine the lay of the surface 
fibers. All specimens shall be mounted in a specimen holder placed on 
the carriage that rides on the brushing device. The specimens shall be 
mounted with the side to be burned face up and positioned so the lay of 
the surface fibers is going away from the closed end of the specimen 
holder. The specimen must be positioned in this manner so that the 
brushing procedure described in paragraph (a)(3)(iv) of this section 
will raise the surface fibers, i.e., the specimen is brushed against 
the direction of the lay of the surface fibers. The specimen shall be 
placed between the two metal plates of the specimen holder and clamped.
    (iv) Brush specimens. After mounting in the specimen holder (and 
with the holder still on the carriage that rides on the brushing 
device) each specimen shall be brushed one time. The carriage is pushed 
to the rear of the brushing device, see Figure 7, and the brush, see 
Figure 8, lowered to the face of the specimen. The carriage shall be 
drawn forward by hand once against the lay of the surface fibers at a 
uniform rate. Brushing of a specimen shall be performed with the 
specimen mounted in a specimen holder. The purpose of the metal plate 
or ``template'' on the carriage of the brushing device is to support 
the specimen during the brushing operation. See Figure 9.
    (v) Condition specimens. All specimens (mounted and brushed) in the 
holders shall be then placed in a horizontal position on an open metal 
shelf in the oven to permit free circulation of air around them. The 
specimens shall be dried in the oven for 30  2 minutes at 
105[deg]  3[deg] C (221 [deg]  5[deg] F) 
removed from the oven and placed over a bed of anhydrous silica gel 
dessicant in a desiccator until cool, but not less than 15 minutes.
    (vi) Conduct flammability test. Follow the procedure in paragraph 
(c) of this section and follow the test sequence in Sec.  1610.7(b)(3).
    (b) Step 2--Refurbishing and testing after refurbishing.
    (1) The refurbishing procedures are the same for both plain surface 
textile fabrics and raised fiber surface textile fabrics. Those samples 
that result in a Class 3, Rapid and Intense Burning after Step 1 
testing in the original state shall not be refurbished and shall not 
undergo Step 2.
    (i) Dry cleaning procedure. (A) All samples shall be dry cleaned 
before they undergo the laundering procedure. Samples shall be dry 
cleaned in a commercial dry cleaning machine, using the following 
prescribed conditions:

Solvent: Perchloroethylene, commercial grade
Detergent class: Cationic.
Cleaning time: 10-15 minutes.
Extraction time: 3 minutes.
Drying Temperature: 60-66[deg] C (140-150[deg] F).
Drying Time: 18-20 minutes.
Cool Down/Deodorization time: 5 minutes.

Samples shall be dry cleaned in a load that is 80% of the machine's 
capacity.

    (B) If necessary, ballast consisting of clean textile pieces or 
garments, white or light in color and consisting of approximately 80% 
wool fabric pieces and 20% cotton fabric pieces, shall be used.
    (ii) Laundering procedure. The sample, after being subjected to the 
dry cleaning procedure, shall be washed and dried one time in 
accordance with sections 8.2.2, 8.2.3 and 8.3.1(A) of AATCC Test Method 
124-2006 ``Appearance of Fabrics after Repeated Home Laundering'' 
(incorporated by reference at Sec.  1610.6(b)(1)(B)(iii)). Washing 
shall be performed in accordance with sections 8.2.2 and 8.2.3 of AATCC 
Test Method 124-2006 using AATCC 1993 Standard Reference Detergent, 
powder and wash water temperature (IV) (120[deg] * 50* F; 49* * 30* C) 
specified in Table II of that method, and the water level, agitator 
speed, washing time, spin speed and final spin cycle specified for 
``Normal/Cotton Sturdy'' in Table III. A maximum wash load shall be 8 
pounds (3.63 kg) and may consist of any combination of test samples and 
dummy pieces. Drying shall be performed in accordance with section 
8.3.1(A) of that test method, Tumble Dry, using the exhaust temperature 
(150[deg] * 10 [deg]F; 66[deg] * 5 [deg]C) and cool down time of 10 
minutes specified in the ``Durable Press'' conditions of Table IV.
    (iii) AATCC Test Method 124-2006 ``Appearance of Fabrics after 
Repeated Home Laundering,'' is incorporated by reference. The Director 
of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. You may obtain a 
copy from the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, 
P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, North C