The Flammability test procedure evaluates the flammability of medical textiles including face masks, surgical gowns, and drapes. Flammability testing covers several different testing protocols and methods intended to measure a material’s vulnerability, including its susceptibility to an ignition source, its propensity to combust, and the rate at which it will burn when ignited.
The US, European Union (EU) and other countries have introduced regulations establishing minimum flammability requirements for many types of materials and finished products to reduce deaths and injuries associated with fires.
Compliance with these requirements is generally demonstrated through reports of flammability testing conducted by independent third-parties in flammability testing labs. Jurisdictions also usually require specific warning labels regarding a product’s intended use. Failure to comply with these requirements can prevent market access, or lead to enforcement actions by regulatory authorities.