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.