FINAL DRAFT UGANDA 
STANDARD  
  FDUS 706  
First Edition  
2011 -mm-dd 
 
 
 Refer ence number  
FDUS 706: 2011 
© UNBS 2011   
  
Non-woven surgical dressings — Specification  
 FDUS 706: 2011  
ii © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Compliance with this standard does not; of itself confer immunity from legal obligations  
A Uganda Standard does not purport to include all necessary provisions of a contract. Users are 
responsible for its cor rect application  
© UNBS 2011   
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any 
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without prior written 
perm ission from UNBS.  
Requests for permission to reproduce this document should be addressed to  
The Executive Director  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards  
P.O. Box 6329  
Kampala  
Uganda  
Tel: 256 41 505 995  
Fax: 256 41 286 123  
E-mail: unbs@infocom.co.ug  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  iii 
 Contents  Page 
Foreword  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... v 
1 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 1 
2 Normative references  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 1 
3 Definitions ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 1 
4 Requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...2 
4.1 General ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 2 
4.2 Type  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 3 
4.3 Fibre composition  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 3 
4.4 Non-woven fabric  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 3 
4.5 Unpadded swabs  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 3 
4.5.1 Construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....3 
4.5.2 Size, ply and mass  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 3 
4.6 Padded swabs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..4 
4.6.1 Construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....4 
4.6.2 Size and mass ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...4 
4.7 Surgical pads  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....4 
4.7.1 Construction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....4 
4.7.2 Type  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 5 
4.7.3 Size and mass ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...5 
4.8 Sterility  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 5 
4.9 Other requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 5 
4.10 Steam sterilization  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 6 
5 Packing and marking ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 6 
5.1 Packing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 6 
5.2 Marking  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 6 
5.2.1 Packages  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 6 
5.2.2 Bulk containers  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 6 
5.2.3 Additional marking  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 6 
6 Inspection and methods of test  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......7 
6.1 Inspection  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 7 
6.2 Preparation of test specimens  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 7 
6.3 Size of swabs or pads and, when relev ant, number of plies  ................................ .......................... 7 
6.4 Mass of 10 swabs or pads  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 7 
6.5 Composition  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....7 
6.6 Mass per unit area (non -woven fabric)  ................................ ................................ ............................ 7 
6.7 Bursting strength (non -woven fabric)  ................................ ................................ ............................. 7 
6.8 Freedom from fluorescence  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 7 
6.9 Absorption rate  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .7 
6.10 Ash content  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......7 
6.11 pH value of aqueous  extract  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 7 
6.12 Freedom from dyes  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 8 
6.13 Sterility  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 8 
6.14 Steam sterilization  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 8 
Annex A  (normative)   Conditioning of textiles and standard temperate atmosphere for 
determining their physical and mechanical properties  ................................ ................................ ..9 
A.1 Principle  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 9 
A.2 Standard temperate atmosphere for testing  ................................ ................................ ................... 9 
A.3 Pre-conditioning  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 9 
A.4 Conditioning  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....9 FDUS 706: 2011  
iv © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Annex B (normative)  Width of a textile fabric sample  ................................ ................................ ..............  10 
B.1 Principle ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  10 
B.2 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 10 
B.3 Procedures  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 10 
B.4 Calculati on ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 10 
Annex C (normative)  Length of a textile fabric sample  ................................ ................................ ............  11 
C.1 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 11 
C.2 Sampling and preparation of test specimen  ................................ ................................ .................  11 
C.3 Procedure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 11 
C.4 Calculation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 11 
C.5 Test report  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 11 
Annex D (normative)  Textiles — Mass per unit area of conditioned fabrics  ................................ ...........  12 
D.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  12 
D.2 Principle ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  12 
D.3 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 12 
D.4 Proce dure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 12 
D.4.1  General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  12 
D.4.2  Procedure 1: Full -width specimen  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 13 
D.4.3  Procedure 2: for representative large cuttings  ................................ ................................ .............  13 
D.4.4  Procedure 3: for several small (0.01 m2) specimens  ................................ ................................ .... 13 
D.5 Calcu lation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 13 
D.6 Test report  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 14 
Annex E (normative)  Water absorption rate of textile fabrics ................................ ................................ .. 15 
E.1 Principle ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  15 
E.2 Applicability ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 15 
E.3 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 15 
E.4 Preparation of test specimens  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 15 
E.5 Procedure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 16 
E.6 Calculation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 16 
Annex F (normative)  Non -volatile matter content and ash content of non -volatile matter  ....................  17 
F.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  17 
F.2 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 17 
F.3 Procedure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 17 
F.4 Calculation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 18 
Annex G (normative)  Presence of dyes in absorbent textile fabrics  ................................ .......................  19 
G.1 Apparatus  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 19 
G.2 Reagent ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  19 
G.3 Preparation of test specimen ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  19 
G.4 Procedure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 19 
G.5 Evaluation  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 19 
G.6 Test report  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 19 
Annex H (informative)  Notes to purchasers  ................................ ................................ .............................  20 
 FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  v 
 Foreword  
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is a parastatal under the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and 
Industry established by the Act of Parliament of 1983, of the Laws of Uganda.  UNBS is mandated to co -
ordinate the elaboration of standards and is  
(a) a member of International Organisation for Standard isation (ISO) and  
(b) a contact point for the WHO/FAO Codex Alimentarius Commission on Food Standards, and  
(c) the National Enquiry Point on TBT/SPS Agreements of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).  
The work of preparing Uganda Standards is carried out through T echnical Committees. A Technical 
Committee is established to deliberate on standards in a given field or area and consists of representatives of 
consumers, traders, academicians, manufacturers, government and other stakeholders.  
Draft Uganda Standards adop ted by the Technical Committee are widely circulated to stakeholders and the 
general public for comments. The committee reviews the comments before recommending the draft standards 
for approval and declaration as Uganda Standards by the National Standards Council.  
Committee membership  
The following organisations were represented on the Technical Committee for Medical devices standards, 
UNBS/TC 14, in the development of this standard:  
 Government Analytical Laboratory  
 Joint Medical Stores (JMS)  
 Makerere Un iversity School of Publics Health (MUSPH)  
 Meridian Techsystem (MTS)  
 Ministry Of Health (MOH)  
 Mulago Hospital Complex  
 National Drug Authority (NDA)  
 National Medical Stores (NMS)  
 Paragon Hospital  
 Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS)  
 
 
 FINAL DRAFT UGANDA STANDARD  FDUS 706: 2011  
 
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved                  1 
 Non-woven surgi cal dressings — Specification  
1 Scope  
This Final Draft Uganda Standard prescribes the requirements and methods  of test for three types of non -
woven surgical dressings; unpadded  swabs, padded swabs and surgical pads.  
NOTE  Notes to purchasers are given in An nex H. 
2 Normative references  
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced 
document (including any amendments) applies.  
ISO 13938 -1, Textiles — Bursting properties of fabrics  — Part 1: Hydraulic method for determination of 
bursting strength and bursting distension  
ISO 13938 -2, Textiles — Bursting properties of fabrics — Part 2: Pneumatic method for determination of 
bursting strength and bursting distension  
ISO 11737 -1, Sterilization of medical devices  — Microbiological methods — Part 1: Determination of a 
population of  microorganisms on products  
 
ISO 11737 -2, Sterilization of medical devices  — Microb iological methods — Part 2: Tests of sterility performed 
in the definition, validation and  maintenance of a sterili zation process  
US 429 ISO 3071 , Method for determination of pH  value of an aqueous extract of a textile  material  
3 Definitions  
For the purpos es of this specification , the following  terms and  definitions shall apply . 
3.1 
bursting strength  
multi -directional resistance to rupture of a circular fabric specimen  
3.2 
compound fabric  
layered woven fabric in which the separate layers or plies, each with  its own warp and weft, are  produced 
simultaneously and stitched together in one weaving process  
3.3 
fibre  
textile raw material, generally characterized by flexibility, fineness and high ratio of length to  thickness  
3.4 
gauze  
fine lightweight, open -texture  fabric produced in plain weave or in a simple leno weave  FDUS 706: 2011  
2 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 3.5 
nonwoven (fabric)  
fabric  normally made from continuous filaments  or from staple -fibre webs  or batts strengthened  by bonding 
using various techniques including adhesive bonding, mechanical interl ocking by  needling  or fluid jet 
entanglement, thermal bonding and stitch bonding  
3.6 
swab  
surgical dressing pad consisting of several layers of absorbent fabric , and used to prepare the  site of an  
operation or a wound, to absorb and remove excess blood and  body fluids from an  incision, and for packing 
internal body cavities during an operation  
3.7 
wadding  
lofty sheet of fibres , which might be bonded, and used for padding , stuffing, or packing  
3.8 
weave  
pattern of interlacing of warp  and weft in a woven fabric 
3.9 
warp  
threads number of threads in long lengths and approximately parallel, in various forms intended  for weaving , 
knitting, doubling, sizing, dyeing, or lace -making  
3.10 
weaving  
producing fabric by the interlacing of warp  and weft threads  
3.11 
weft 
thread running widthwise in a fabric  as woven  
3.12 
yarn  
product of substantial length and relatively small cross section, and consisting of fibre(s)  or filamen t(s) with or 
without twist  
3.13 
padding  
finishing impregnation of a substrate  with a liquor or a  paste followed by squeezing, usually by  passage 
through a nip, to leave a specific quantity of liquor or paste on the substrate  
3.14 
acceptable  
acceptable to the purchaser, but in relation to inspections carried out by Uganda National Bureau of 
Standards  the Bureau  (UNBS) , acceptable to UNBS  
4 Requirements  
4.1 General  
Non-woven surgical dressings shall  be: 
a) made in accordance with sound manufacturing practice;  
b) of an acceptable white;  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  3 
 c) of acceptable uniform make and finish; and  
d) clean and dry when packed.  
4.2 Type  
Non-woven surgical dressings shall be one of the following types, as specified by the purchaser:  
a) unpadded swabs;  
b) padded swabs; and  
c) surgical pads.  
4.3 Fibre composition  
When determined in accordance with 6.5, the fibre composition of the components of  the non -woven surgical 
dressings shall be as follows:  
a) non-woven fabric: cotton, viscose or thermobonding fibres ( for example,  polypropylene); and  
b) wadding ; either cotton, viscose or polyester fibres (or a mixture of two or more of these fibres) or 
bleached  cellulose pulp.  
4.4 Non-woven fabric  
Non-woven fabric used in surgical dressings shall comply with the requirements given in Table 1.  
Table 1 — Non-woven fabric requirements  
1 2 3 
Property  Requirement  Test method subclause  
Mass per unit area, g/m2, min.  13 6.6 
Bursting strength, kPa, min.  35 6.7 
 
4.5 Unpadded swabs  
4.5.1  Construction  
An unpadded swab shall have been made from a single piece of non -woven fabric that has been so folded to 
the appropriate size that no raw edge is visible, or so processed that the raw edge is non -linting, non -adherent 
and smooth.  
4.5.2  Size, ply and mass  
When determined in accordance with 6.3 and 6.4, the nominal size of, and number of plies in, a swab shall, 
unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, be one of the combin ations given in columns 1 and 2 of Table 2, 
as specified, and the mass of 10 swabs of the same size and ply shall be at least equal to the appropriate 
minimum value given in column 3.  FDUS 706: 2011  
4 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Table 2 — Size, ply and mass of unpadded swabs  
1 2 3 
Nominal size,  
mm Number of plies  Minimum mass of 10 swabs,  
g 
75 x 75  2 1.5 
75 x 75  4 3 
75 x 75  8 6 
75 x 75  12 9 
100 x 100  2 2.5 
100 x 100  4 5 
100 x 100  8 10 
100 x 100  12 16 
 
4.6 Padded swabs  
4.6.1  Construction  
A padded swab shall have been made from a single piece of non -woven fabric that has a thin layer of wadding 
at its centre and has been so folded to the appropriate size that the swab contains at least two plies and no 
raw edge is visible, or so processed that the raw edge is non -linting, non -adherent and smoot h. Where 
bleached cellulose pulp is used as wadding, the wadding shall be encased in non -woven tissue, followed by 
encasement in non -woven fabric, so as to prevent the loss of short, loose fibres.  
4.6.2  Size and mass  
When determined in accordance with 6.3 and 6.4, the nominal size of a padded swab shall be one of those 
given in column 1 of Table 3, as specified by the purchaser, and the mass of 10 swabs of the same size shall 
be at least equal to the appropriate minimum value given in column 2.  
Table 3 — Size and mass of padded swabs  
1 2 
Nominal size,  
mm Minimum mass of 10 padded swabs,  
g 
50 x 50 5 
75 x 75  9 
100 x 100  15 
 
4.7 Surgical pads  
4.7.1  Construction  
A surgical pad shall consist of a thick layer of wadding enclosed in a tube (either open -ended o r sealed) 
formed from one or more pieces of non -woven fabric, with the cut edges adequately sealed along the length of 
the pad. Where bleached cellulose pulp is used as wadding, the wadding shall be encased in non -woven 
tissue, followed by encasement in no n-woven fabric, so as to prevent the loss of short, loose fibres.  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  5 
 4.7.2  Type  
Surgical pads shall be of type A, B or C, as specified by the purchaser (see Table 4).  
4.7.3  Size and mass  
When determined in accordance with 6.3 and 6.4, the nominal size of a su rgical pad shall be one of those 
given in column 1 of table 4, as specified by the purchaser, and the mass of 10 surgical pads of the same size 
shall be at least equal to the appropriate minimum value given in column 2, 3 or 4, as relevant.  
Table 4 — Size and mass of surgical pads  
1 2 3 4 
Nominal  size,  
mm Minimum mass  of 10 surgical pads  
g 
Type A  Type B  Type C  
100 x 100  36 29 19 
100 x 200  70 57 39 
200 x 200  140 109 73 
200 x 400  280 219 147 
400 x 400  560 - - 
 
4.8 Sterility  
When sterile -packed dressi ngs are specified by the purchaser (see 5.1), the dressings shall pass the test for 
sterility given in 6.1 3. 
4.9 Other requirements  
All types of non -woven surgical dressings shall comply with the requirements given in Table 5.  
Table 5 — Other requirements for all types of surgical dressings  
1 2 3 
Property  Requirement  Test method,  
Sub-clause  
Fluorescence  Not more than the occasional point of 
intense blue fluorescence  6.8 
Absorption rate, s, max.  10 6.9 
Ash content, g/kg, max.  5 6.10 
pH value of aqueous extract  7 ± 2 6.11 
Freedom from dyes  The percolate may show a yellow colour, 
but no blue or green tint shall appear  6.12 
 FDUS 706: 2011  
6 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 4.10 Steam sterilization  
When so specified by the purchaser, and when tested in accordance with 6. 14, non -woven surgical dressings 
shall be able to withstand steam sterilization without showing any appreciable deterioration in handle.  
5 Packing and marking  
5.1 Packing  
The number of dressings per package and the type of package, that is,  sealed or sterile -packed, shall be as 
specified b y the purchaser. Only dressings of the same type and nominal size, and in the case of unpadded 
swabs, number of plies, shall be packed together in a package and in a bulk container. Sealed and sterile -
packed packages shall be packed in separate bulk contai ners.  
5.2 Marking  
5.2.1  Packages  
The following information shall appear in legible and indelible marking on each package of dressings or on a 
label securely attached to the package:  
a) manufacturer's name , address and  trade mark;  
b) type of dressing, the nominal  size (in millimetres) and, in the case of unpadded swabs, the number of 
plies;  
c) type, in the case of surgical pads,;  
d) the word "sterile" in the case of a sterile -packed dressing;  
e) quantity of dressings;  
f) batch identification number ; 
g) expiry date and condition s of storage ; and  
h) date of manufacture.  
5.2.2  Bulk containers  
The following information shall appear in legible and indelible marking on the outside of each bulk container:  
a) the information required in terms of 5.2.1 (a) to (d), (f), (g) and (h) and;  
b) the qua ntity of packages.  
5.2.3  Additional marking  
When so specified by the purchaser, packages or bulk containers (or both) shall bear information additional to 
that required in terms of 5.2.1 and 5.2.2.  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  7 
 6 Inspection and methods of test  
6.1 Inspection  
After chec king each package in the sample for compliance with the relevant requirements of Clause 5, visually 
examine the contents for compliance with the requirements of 4.1, 4.2 and, as relevant, 4.5.1, 4.6.1 or 4.7.1.  
6.2 Preparation of test specimens  
Before test ing, condition the test samples in accordance with Annex A. When preparing 5 g and 10 g 
specimens for the tests given in 6.11 and 6.14 respectively, ensure that fractions of a dressing required to 
make up the specified mass are cut from across the full thi ckness of the swab or pad. Unless inconsistent with 
the test method, test the specimens without removing them from the standard atmospheric conditions.  
6.3 Size of swabs or pads and, when relevant, number of plies  
Use annexes  B and C to determine the width  and length respectively of swabs or pads and, when relevant, 
determine the number of plies by physical examination.  
6.4 Mass of 10 swabs or pads  
Determine to an accuracy of 0.2 % (or better), and record the mass of 10 swabs or pads of the same nominal 
size and, when relevant, number of plies.  
6.5 Composition  
Determine by microscopical examination and (when relevant) chemical analysis.  
6.6 Mass per unit area (non -woven fabric)  
Use Annex D 
6.7 Bursting strength (non -woven fabric)  
Use ISO 13938  on composite t est specimens consisting of five layers of non -woven fabric. Record the mean 
bursting strength. Calculate the mean single layer bursting strength by dividing the mean result for the 
composite specimen by five.  
6.8 Freedom from fluorescence  
Examine the dres sings (unfolded) under a screened ultraviolet light that has maximum output at a wavelength 
of 365 nm.  
6.9 Absorption rate  
Use Annex E , but test a specimen of size the smaller of 100 mm x 100 mm or the size of the dressing.  
6.10 Ash content  
Use Annex F , but also see 6.2.  
6.11 pH value of aqueous extract  
Use US 429  ISO 3071 . FDUS 706: 2011  
8 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 6.12 Freedom from dyes  
Uses Annex G. 
6.13 Sterility  
Use ISO 11737 -1and 2 or other appropriate method to determine sterility .  
6.14 Steam sterilization  
Steam sterilize the test samples at  a temperature of 134 °C for a period of 3 min.  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  9 
 Annex A  
(normative)  
 
Conditioning of textiles and standard temperate atmosphere for 
determining  their physical and mechanical properties  
A.1 Principle  
Textile samples are conditioned in an atmosphere of a sp ecified humidity and a specified  temperature . 
A.2 Standard temperate atmosphere for testing  
An atmosphere that has a relative humidity of 65 % ± 2 % and a temperature of 20 °C ± 2 °C at the  prevailing 
barometric pressure.  
A.3 Pre-conditioning  
If pre -condit ioning is required, dry the textile to substantially constant mass in an atmosphere that  has a 
relative humidity between 10 % and 25 % and a temperature not exceeding 50 °C.  
A.4 Conditioning  
Before a textile is tested in order to establish a physical or me chanical property, condition it in the  standard 
atmosphere for testing. A textile is conditioned when (after having been pre -conditioned, if  necessary), it has 
reached equilibrium with the standard atmosphere for testing.  
Provided that there has been a fre e flow of conditioned air through the textile throughout the entire  period of 
conditioning, consider a textile to be in equilibrium with the atmosphere if the change in mass between 
successive weighing, carried out at interval of two hours is less than 0.2 5 %. FDUS 706: 2011  
10 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Annex B  
(normative ) 
 
Width of a textile fabric sample  
B.1 Principle  
The width of a textile fabric sample laid on a flat surface is measured with a steel scale.  
B.2 Apparatus  
Steel scale , of a length exceeding the width of the fabric to be measured, an d is graduated in  centimetres and 
millimetres  
B.3 Procedures  
B.3.1 Lay the test sample flat and full width (without subjecting it to tension) on a plane surface and  
condition it in that state for at least 24 h in accordance with Annex A. 
B.3.2 Take, to the  nearest 1 mm, five measurements across the overall width or between the  innermost 
selvedge threads (as relevant) of the conditioned test sample at approximately equal intervals  throughout its 
length.  
B.4 Calculation  
Calculate the arithmetic mean of the fi ve measurements and record it as the width of  the sample.  
 FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  11 
 Annex C  
(normative ) 
 
Length of a textile fabric sample  
C.1 Apparatus  
C.1.1 Marking pen  
C.1.2 Steel tape , of length greater than the length of the laboratory sample to be measured, and  graduated 
in centimetres and millimetres  
C.2 Sampling and preparation of test specimen  
C.2.1 Take a laboratory sample as specified in the relevant product specification. Where no  specification 
exists, take the laboratory sample as agreed upon between the test laborator y and the  manufacturer to ensure 
a reasonable and acceptable reliability at a reasonable and acceptable  confidence level.  
C.2.2 Lay the laboratory sample flat and full width (without subjecting it to tension) on a plane  surface and 
condition it in that sta te for at least 24 h in accordance with Annex A . 
C.2.3 From the conditioned laboratory sample cut a test specimen across the full width of the  laboratory 
sample along a datum line drawn at right angles to the selvedge  and as close  as possible to the beginn ing 
and the end of the laboratory sample.  
C.3 Procedure  
Take, to the nearest millimetre, five measurements ( see B.3.2) of the length of the test specimen at  
approximately equal intervals across its width.  
C.4 Calculation  
Calculate the arithmetic mean of th e five measurements and record it as the length, in metres  (accurate to the 
nearest centimetre), of the laboratory sample.  
C.5 Test report  
Report the following information:  
a) all the data needed to identify the laboratory sample tested;  
b) confirmation that the  test was carried out in accordance with this standard;  
c) if applicable, the sampling method used (see 4.1);  
d) any deviation from this standard; and  
e) the length in meters of the laboratory samples taken (see C.4)  FDUS 706: 2011  
12 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Annex D  
(normative ) 
 
Textiles — Mass per unit ar ea of conditioned fabrics  
D.1 General  
D.1.1 This standard specifies three alternative procedures for determining the mass per unit area of  woven 
fabrics (including those of the stretch type), knitted fabrics, non -woven fabrics, composite  fabrics and narrow  
fabrics, that have been conditioned in the standard atmosphere for testing.  
D.1.2 The three procedures apply to:  
a) full-width fabrics that are of such a length that they can be conditioned and measured  satisfactorily ; 
b) representative large cuttings that can be measured satisfactorily; or  
c) a number of representative specimens cut to a constant area of 0.01 m2. 
Smaller areas are not considered suitable for testing.  
D.1.3 Procedure 3 is not applicable to knitted fabrics and woven stretch -type fabrics.  
D.1.4 If so  specified in the relevant product specification, or if so agreed upon between the parties  
concerned, a correction for the non -fibrous material content of the fabric may be made.  
D.2 Principle  
The mass and the dimensions of a textile fabric specimen, that is without tension and has been  conditioned in 
the standard test atmosphere, is determined and the mass per unit area is  calculated.  
D.3 Apparatus  
D.3.1 Table , with  a smooth flat surface and is of a size that exceeds that of the fabric to be  measured  
D.3.2 Pair of scissors or suitable cutter , capable of cutting a square or circular specimen of  area 0 .01 m2 
to an accuracy of 1 % or better  
D.3.3 Metal plate , is 5 mm smaller than the cutter (see  D.3.2 ) and that has a thickness of 10 mm  
D.3.4 Balance , capable o f determining the mass of the specimen to an accuracy of 0 .2 % or,  in the case of 
0.01 m2 speci mens, to an accuracy of 0 .001 g  
D.4 Procedure  
D.4.1 General  
Condition the sample in accordance with Annex A and carry out the test in the same standard  atmospher e. FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  13 
 NOTE 1 Any of the procedures can be used to determine the mass per unit area of a fabric; however, for the purpose 
of greater accuracy, the procedure that gives the largest test specimen(s) is preferable.  
NOTE 2 In the case of narrow fabrics, a complet e roll should be used, but, if this is not possible, the length of the 
specimen should be at least 5 m.  
D.4.2 Procedure 1: Full-width specimen  
D.4.2. 1 Ensure that the fabric, which should preferably be selected from the middle of a piece, is not  less 
than 0.5 m and not more than 4 m long, and lay it flat, and without tension, on the table. Cut at  both ends, 
across the full width of the sample, along parallel lines at right angles to the selvedge. If  the mass per unit 
area of a selvedge on a full -width piece  appears to deviate appreciably from the  mass per unit area of the 
body of the fabric, or if so agreed upon between the parties concerned,  trim off the selvedge along the 
outermost threads of the body of the fabric and use only the body of  the fabric for t he determination of the 
mass per unit area. Measure the width and length of the  specimen, using Annex B  and Annex C  respectively.  
D.4.2. 2 Use the balance to determine the mass of the specimen.  
D.4.3 Procedure 2: for representative large cuttings  
D.4.3.1  Ensure that the available cutting is representative of the sample. Trim the cutting into a  square or 
rectangular specimen by cutting along parallel lines at right angles to the warp (length)  direction and at right 
angles to the weft (width) direction.  
D.4.3. 2 Measure the width and length of the specimen, using Annex B and  Annex C respectively.  
D.4.3. 3 Determine the mass of the specimen using the balance.  
D.4.4 Procedure 3: for several small (0. 01 m2) specimens  
NOTE  On fabrics with large in -woven designs, whic h involve local areas of appreciably different mass per unit  area, 
the use of Procedure 1 or Procedure 2 is preferable. If the sample size necessitates the use of  Procedure 3, select 
specimens that contain an integral number of pattern repeats or that are representative of  the pattern.  
D.4.4.1 Cut at least three square pieces, of side length of approximately 150 mm, from areas of the  fabric 
selected to represent the sample as fully as possible but not within 50 mm of the selvedge.  
D.4.4.2 Lay each piece fla t, and without tension, on a suitable cutting surface. Place the metal plate  (see 
D.3.2.2 ) and the cutter (see D.3.3 ) on each piece in turn and cut out a 0 .01 m2 specimen from each  piece, 
ensuring that no loss of threads occurs.  
D.4.4. 3 Use the balance to determine the mass of the 0 .01 m2 specimens, and calculate the mean  mass.  
D.5 Calculation  
D.5.1 In the case of Procedure 1 and Procedure 2, calculate the mass per unit area M in grams per  square 
metre, using the following formula:  
WLmM
000 000 1
 
where 
m is the mass , in grams,  of the specimen;  
L is the length , in millimetres, of the specimen; and  FDUS 706: 2011  
14 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 W is the width , in millimetres, of the specimen . 
D.5.2 In the case of Procedure 3, calculate the mass per unit area (M in grams per square metre) by  
multiplyi ng the mean mass (in grams) by 100.  
D.5.3 If the mass per unit area free from non -fibrous material is required, correct the calculated mass  per 
unit area (see D.5.1  and D.5.2 ) for the non -fibrous material content, determined (on a separate  sample) using 
a suitable method agreed upon between the parties concerned.  
D.6 Test report  
State the following in the test report:  
a) that the test was carried out strictly in accordance with this standard or whether any deviation  was 
introduced;  
b) the test result to the neare st g/m2; and 
c) whether the test results indicate the mass per unit area free from non fibrous materials  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  15 
 Annex E  
(normative ) 
 
Water absorption rate of textile fabrics  
E.1 Principle  
A prescribed number of textile fabric test specimens are saturated in accordan ce with a prescribed  procedure 
and the arithmetic mean time for complete saturation of the specimens is recorded.  
E.2 Applicability  
E.2.1 This method is applicable to all textiles intended for use as towels, dishcloths, cleaning rags,  
absorbent surgical dr essings and for other applications where water absorption is important.  
E.2.2 Depending on the intended end use, the textile is either tested in a single layer (towels, dish  cloths,  
cleaning  rags, etc.) or in two or more layers (absorbent gauze, swabs, lin t, etc.).  
E.3 Apparatus  
E.3.1  Container that is filled to a depth of approximately 100 mm with deionised  water maintained  at a 
temperature of 20 °C ± 2 °C and that has a surface area of adequate size to allow the  specimen to float freely  
E.3.2 Suitable bal ance having a sensitivity of 0 .1 g 
E.3.3 Stop-watch  
E.3.4 Forceps  
E.3.5  Staining agent , for example  Congo -red or methylene blue  
E.4 Preparation of test specimens  
E.4.1 Condition the test sample in accordance with Annex A. 
E.4.2 From each sample  select five  specimens in such a way that they fully represent the sample,  but are 
taken from areas at least 50 mm away from the edges of the sample. Cut square test  specimens each of 
mass 2 g ± 0 .1 g and, when necessary, so lightly fold a specimen that its size  does not exceed 100 mm x 100 
mm. 
E.4.3 Swabs are usually pre -folded. Test them in such a way that several layers of fabric will be  exposed to 
the water.  
E.4.4 In the case of gauze , fold the specimens lightly, keeping the different layers in contact with one  
another to ensure continuous absorption.  
E.4.5 In the case of cleaning rags, where specimens usually have different fibre components, cut  from 
increased  parts of the specimens equilateral, triangular snippets of side length approximately  50 mm, and 
disregard the mass of the specimens.  FDUS 706: 2011  
16 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 E.5 Procedure  
E.5.1 By means of the forceps, place a specimen lightly and as flat as possible on the surface of the  water, 
and simultaneously start the stop -watch. As soon as the specimen is completely saturated,  stop the watch.  
E.5.2 Record the time to the nearest 0 .1 s but if the required time exceeds 10 s, record the time to  the 
nearest 1 .0 s. 
E.5.3 Repeat the test on the remaining test specimens.  
E.5.4 If, in the case of bleached or neutral coloured specimens, the saturation p oint is difficult to  observe, 
add an adequate amount of staining agent to the water.  
E.6 Calculation  
E.6.1 Calculate, to the nearest 1 s, the arithmetic mean of the five test results.  
E.6.2 In the case of cleaning rags, calculate to the nearest 1 s, the me an of the amount of different  rags that 
are present in the sample  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  17 
 Annex F  
(normative ) 
 
Non-volatile matter content and ash content of non -volatile matter  
 
F.1 General  
This standard specifies a method for the determination of the non -volatile matter conten t and the  ash content 
of the non -volatile matter.  
F.2 Apparatus  
F.2.1 Silica or porcelain evaporating dish  
F.2.2 Oven , maintained at 110 °C ± 10 °C.  
F.2.3 Furnace , maintained at 900 °C ± 10 °C.  
F.2.4 Dessicator  
F.2.5 Water -bath  
F.2.6 Scale or weighing bala nce 
F.3 Procedure  
F.3.1 Heat the evaporating dish in the furnace ( F.2.3 ) for 15 min.  
NOTE  If only non -volatile matter is required, heating to 110 °C in the oven will be sufficient . 
F.3.2 Cool the desiccator and weigh it to the nearest 10 mg ( m1). 
F.3.3 Weigh (see F.2.6), to an accuracy of 10 mg, approximately 4 g of the polish into the evaporating  dish. 
Record the mass of the dish and the polish ( m2). 
F.3.4 Heat the evaporating dish on a boiling water -bath (see F.2.5) until most of the volatile matter has  
evaporated.  
F.3.5 Place the evaporating dish in the oven at 110 °C ± 2 °C for 16 h.  
F.3.6 Remove the dish, cool it in the desiccator (see F.2.4) and then weigh it.  
F.3.7 Reheat the dish in the oven for 2 h periods (weighing it between each 2 h period as in F.3.6) until the 
last two weighings do not differ by more than 5 mg ( m3). 
F.3.8 Reserve the dish for the determination of the ash content (see F.3.9). 
F.3.9 Slowly char the non -volatile matter (reserved in terms of F.3.8) over a small flame and then place  the 
dish in the furnace for 15 min.  FDUS 706: 2011  
18 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 F.3.10 Remove the dish, cool it in the desiccator then weigh it.  
F.3.11 Repeat the heating and cooling until the last two masses do not differ by more than  5 mg ( m4). 
F.4 Calculation  
F.4.1 Calculate the percentage by mas s of the non -volatile matter content (NV) of the polish as  follows:  
100
2 31 3

m mm mNV
 
where 
m1  is the mass , in grams, of the evaporating dish (see F.3.2); 
m2  is the mass , in grams, of the evaporating dish and polish (see F.3.3); and  
m3  is the mass , in grams,  of the evaporating dish and non -volatile matter (see F.3.6);  
F.4.2 Calculate the percentage by mass of the ash content ( A) of non -volatile matter of the polish as  
follows:  
100
m mm mA
1 31 4

 
where  
m1  is the mass , in grams,  of the evaporating di sh, (see F.3.2); 
m3  is the mass , in grams, of the evaporating dish and the non -volatile matter (see F.3.6); and 
m4  is the mass , in grams,  of the evaporating dish and ash  (see F.3.10)  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  19 
 Annex G  
(normative)  
 
Presence of dyes in absorbent textile fabrics  
G.1 Apparatus  
G.1.1 Funnel , an open -top cylindrical dropping funnel with a capacity of 400 mL and so positioned  that the 
percolate drips into the Nessler -tube 
G.1.2 Nessler -tube, with a capacity of 50 mL 
G.2 Reagent  
Ethanol , absolute  
G.3 Preparation of test sp ecimen  
G.3.1 Condition the test s ample in accordance with Annex A. 
G.3.2 From the conditioned sample prepare a test specimen in the form of a wad with a mass of  
approximately 10 g. Pack the test specimen tightly into the funnel (see G.1.1 ). 
G.4 Procedure  
Slowly pour the etha nol (see G.2 ) on to the test specimen, and close the tap of the funnel as  soon as the level 
of the percolate  has reached the 50 ml  mark in the Nessler -tube (see G.1 .2). 
G.5 Evaluation  
Examine the percolate in the Nessler -tube by viewing it downwards against a white background,  and deem 
the textile  fabrics to  contain a dye if the percolate has a blue or a green tint.  
G.6 Test report  
Report the following information:  
a) all the data needed to identify the sample tested;  
b) that the test was carri ed out in accordance with this standard;  
c) any d eviation from this standard;  
d) the test results, as positive or negative for the presence of dyes.  
 FDUS 706: 2011  
20 © UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  
 Annex H 
(informative)  
 
Notes to purchasers  
The following requirements shall be specified in tender invitations and in each order or contract:  
a) the type of dressing (see 4.2);  
b) in the case of unpadded swabs, the nominal size and the number of plies (see 4.5.2);  
c) in the case of padded swabs, the nominal size (see 4.6.2);  
d) in the case of surgical pads, the type and nomin al size (see 4.7.2 and 4.7.3);  
e) the number of dressings per package and the type of packaging ( that is,  sealed or sterile -packed) 
(see 5.1); and  
f) additional marking, if required (see 5.2.3).  FDUS 706: 2011  
© UNBS 2011  – All rights reserved  21 
 Certification marking  
Products that conform to Uganda standards may  be marked with Uganda National Bureau of Standards 
(UNBS) Certification Mark shown in the figure below.  
The use of the UNBS Certification Mark is governed by the Standards Act, and the Regulations made 
thereunder. This mark can be used only by those lice nsed under the certification mark scheme operated by 
the Uganda National Bureau of Standards and in conjunction with the relevant Uganda Standard. The 
presence of this mark on a product or in relation to a product is an assurance that the goods comply with  the 
requirements of that standard under a system of supervision, control and testing in accordance with the 
certification mark scheme of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards. UNBS marked products are 
continually checked by UNBS for conformity to that s tandard.  
Further particulars of the terms and conditions of licensing may be obtained from the Director, Uganda 
National Bureau of Standards.  
 
 FDUS 706: 2011    
 
ICS nn.nnn.nn  
Price based on 28 pages  
© UNBS 2011 – All rights reserved