ASTM F2733

ASTM F2733 specifies the requirements for flame-resistant rainwear intended to protect workers from industrial hydrocarbon fires and other petrochemical fire hazards. Here’s an overview of the performance requirements and testing methods outlined in this standard:

Performance Requirements

1. Flame Resistance:

   • Rainwear material must be flame resistant, as determined by ASTM D6413/D6413M. It should not melt or drip, and it must exhibit an afterflame time of less than 2 seconds and a char length of less than 4 inches.

2. Thermal Protection:

   • Rainwear materials are tested using ASTM F1930 after one washing and one drying cycle. Testing parameters include exposure to a heat flux of 84 +/- 2.0 cal/cm² for 3 +/- 0.1 seconds. This test evaluates the thermal protection of the rainwear against flash fire scenarios.

3. Flash Fire Protection:

   • The total body burn must not exceed 40% when exposed to a flash fire, ensuring the rainwear provides adequate protection against burn injuries.

4. Leak Resistance:

   • Rainwear material must withstand water pressure up to 30 psig without leaking. Additionally, seams should show no signs of leakage when exposed to water at 3 psig for 2 minutes.

5. Tear Resistance:

   • The rainwear material should have a trapezoidal tear resistance of at least 6 lbs. in both the warp and fill directions, ensuring durability and resistance to tearing during use.

6. Moisture Vapor Transmission (Breathability):

   • If advertised as breathable, the rainwear must undergo testing to evaluate moisture vapor transmission properties. This ensures comfort and usability for workers wearing the rainwear in potentially demanding environments.

7. Markings and Reflective Materials:

   • Any markings and reflective materials attached to the rainwear must be permanent and should not compromise the overall performance or flame resistance of the garment.

Updates and Availability

• The most recent update to ASTM F2733 occurred in 2017, focusing on clarifications, revisions to terminology definitions, and adjustments to comply with ASTM style standards.

• The standard can be purchased and downloaded from the ASTM website, providing detailed guidelines on test methods, performance criteria, sizing recommendations, and purchasing information for flame-resistant rainwear used in hazardous industrial settings.

By adhering to ASTM F2733, manufacturers, safety professionals, and regulatory bodies can ensure that flame-resistant rainwear meets rigorous standards for protecting workers from flame and thermal hazards associated with industrial activities involving hydrocarbons and petrochemicals.