ASTM E1537—13 Standard Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture (PDF Download)

1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.

1.2 The purpose of this test method is to determine the burning behavior of upholstered furniture used in public occupancies by measuring specific fire-test responses when the specimen of furniture is subjected to a specified flaming ignition source under well-ventilated conditions.

1.3 Data are obtained describing the burning behavior from a specific ignition source until all burning has ceased, a period of 1 h has elapsed, or flashover appears inevitable.

1.4 This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of upholstered furniture in fire conditions other than those conditions specified. In particular, this test method does not apply to smoldering ignition by cigarettes. See X1.6 for further information.

1.5 The rate of heat release of the burning specimen is measured by an oxygen consumption method. See X1.6.4 for further information.

1.6 The production of light obscuring smoke is measured and the concentrations of certain toxic gas species in the combustion gases are determined. See X1.6.5 for further information.

1.7 The burning behavior is visually documented by photographic or video recordings, whenever possible.

1.8 The system of units to be used in referee decisions is the SI system of units, see IEEE/ASTM SI-10 only. The units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.9 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.10 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.

1.11 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.