ASTM F1449

ASTM F1449 serves as a guide for industrial laundering processes specifically tailored for flame, thermal, and arc resistant clothing.
It covers responsibilities from fiber and fabric manufacturers to end users, outlining specific categories of FR clothing and their laundering requirements.

Manufacturers:

Specify flame, thermal, and arc resistant properties for fibers, fabrics, and finishes.
Categorize FR clothing into:
- Category A: Made from inherently flame-resistant fibers tolerant to high laundering and finishing temperatures.
- Category B: Inherently FR fabrics with temperature limitations for laundering and finishing.
- Category C: FR treated fabrics.
- Category D: Combination of Type A, B, and/or C fabrics.
- Category X: FR clothing with specific laundering prohibitions (e.g., "Dry Clean Only").

End Users:

Must follow care instructions provided on the garment label.
Responsible for determining when a garment has reached its end of life and should be retired from service.

The guide also details various factors to consider in the laundering process, such as:

Water temperature: Optimal temperature for effective cleaning without compromising FR properties.
Drying temperature: Ensures garments are dried thoroughly without damaging FR properties.
Water hardness: Adjustments may be necessary to account for varying water conditions.
Mechanical action: Balance between effective cleaning and minimizing wear on garments.
Machine load factor: Proper loading to ensure adequate water circulation and cleaning effectiveness.
Soil sorting: Separating heavily soiled garments to prevent contamination.
Chemistry: Use of appropriate detergents and additives that do not degrade FR properties.
Finishing temperature: Controlled temperature to set garments without damaging FR treatments.
Bleach and souring: Avoidance of harsh chemicals that may affect FR performance.
Extraction and cycle times: Proper cycle durations and extraction speeds to maintain garment integrity.