NBSIR 75-702

Design Criteria for Firefigliters'

Turnout Coats

J. W. Eisele

Center for Fire Research

Institute for Applied Technology

National Bureau of Standards

Washington, D. C. 20234

October 1 975

Final Report

Prepared for National Fire Prevention and Control Administration

Department of Commerce

Washington, D. C. 20230

NBSIR 75-702

DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FIREFIGHTERS'

TURNOUT COATS

J. W. Eisele

Center for Fire Research

Institute for Applied Technology

National Bureau of Standards

Washington, D. C. 20234

October 1975

Final Report

Prepared for National Fire Prevention and Control Administration

Department of Commerce

Washington, D. C. 20230

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, Rogers C.B. Morton, Secretary

James A. Baker, III, Under Secretary

Dr. Betsy Ancker-Johnson, Assistant Secretary for Science and Technology

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS, Ernest Ambler, Acting Director

CONTENTS

Page

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FIREFIGHTERS' TURNOUT COATS 2

2.1. Purpose 2 2.2. Scope 2

2.3. General 3

2.3.1. Sizing 3

2.3.2. Stitching 5

2.3.3. Outer Shell 5

2.3.3.1. Material 5

2.3.3.2. Visibility 6

2.3.3.3. Collar 7 2.3.3.4. Sleeves 7 2.3.3.5. Wristlets 9

2.3.3.6. Shoulder and Backyoke 9

2.3.3.7. Storm Flap and Closures 9

2.3.3.8. Pockets 10

2.3.3.9. Retro-reflective Material Use. ... 10

2.3.3.10. Attachment of Linings 10

2.3.3.11. Labels 10

2.3.3.12. Hangar Loops 11

2.3.4. Linings 11

2.3.4.1. Material 11

2.3.4.2. General Configuration and Measurements 11

2.3.4.3. Attachment to Outer Shell and Other

Linings 14

2.3.4.4. Labels 14

2.3.5. Requirements for the Assembled Coat 14

2.3.5.1. Total Weight 14

2.3.5.2. Thickness (Insulation Provision) . . 14

2.3.6. Leather 15

2.3.7. Hardware 15

2.3.7.1. Hooks and Dees . 15

2.3.7.2. Rivets 15

2.3.7.3. Snap Fasteners 15

2.3.8. Fastener Tape 15

2.3.9. Retro-reflective Material Properties 17

APPENDIX A. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 18

Al. Air Circulation 18

A2. Impact Resistance 18

A3. Padding 18

A4. Color 18

A5. Water Repellency 19

A6. Pocket Selection 19

A7. Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 20

iii
CONTENTS (cont'd)

Page

APPENDIX B. OPTIONS AND OTHER ITEMS OF CONCERN TO POTENTIAL

USERS OF THIS CRITERIA 24

APPENDIX C. REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT THE

MANUFACTURER MUST SUPPLY 29

APPENDIX D. SAMPLE PURCHASE SPECIFICATION 31

APPENDIX E. REFERENCES 32

"

^ LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. General Configuration of linings showing snap fastener

locations 13

Figure 2. "Hook and dee ring (inward facing)" 16

Figure Al. Spray Test, Federal Test Method Standard No. 191,

Method 5526 22

Figure A2. Standard Spray Test Ratings, Federal Test Method

Standard No. 191, Method 5526 23

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Outer Shell Requirements 4

Table 2. Requirements for Corduroy Used in Collar 8

Table 3. Requirements for Lining 12

iv
DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FIREFIGHTERS' TURNOUT COATS

J. W. Eisele

These design criteria cover requirements for the sizing,

construction, outer shell, inner linings, weight and thickness

for firefighters' turnout coats as well as test methods, labeling

requirements and design considerations. Included also is a list

of options and other items of concern to potential users of the

criteria and a sample purchase specification to be used in con- junction with the criteria.

Key words: Firefighters; firefighters' turnout coats; protective

clothing.

1. INTRODUCTION

Early in the program on turnout coats, a series of studies were made

directed toward determining what was needed by the Fire Services in the

way of turnout coats, and for investigating the most practical means for

meeting these needs as soon as possible. The studies concentrated on evaluating what was available in the marketplace. Based on these studies

and the needs and desires of the Fire Department of Prince Georges County,

Maryland, a purchase specification was developed which was used by that

County to purchase a number of coats. A coat manufacturer was able to

meet the specification at a reasonable price and the Fire Department has

found the coat satisfactory.

Based upon the Prince Georges County experience, upon additional

research (conducted by the National Bureau of Standards and many others)

and upon comments from Fire Service personnel, proposed guidelines were

prepared and circulated nationally to leaders of the International

Association of Fire Chiefs, including the entire Metropolitan Committee,

to each Director of State Fire Service Training, to representatives of

the International Association of Fire Fighters, and to other interested

parties. To obtain the views of manufacturers, the proposal was sent to

all known manufacturers of turnout coats, and to manufacturers of the base

fabrics and trim materials.

The comments were analyzed and used as the basis for proposed changes

to the draft. The proposed changes were discussed at a series of the

seminars arranged by Fire Service groups. They include the International

Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Fire Fighters,

International Fire Service Training Association, National Fire Protection

Association, the University of Maryland Extension Service and the Federal

Fire Council. The proposals contained in this report represent the results

of this consensus process.

1
The publication of these guidelines and their general acceptance by

the Fire Services does not lay to rest the problem of obtaining acceptable

turnout coats, however. First, the guidelines leave many items to local

option and each fire department must make its own selection from these

options. Appendix B of this report is included to help in defining these

local options.

Second, design concepts should be continually updated and upgraded;

these guidelines are no exception. New technology pertinent to the product

will continually become available and field experience with coats meeting

these criteria will uncover needed improvements.

Included in this report as appendix B is a list of options and other

items of concern to potential users of the report. Those referencing the

criteria in a purchase specification could limit their attention to the

items covered in appendix B. Appendix C contains a summary of requirements

for additional information that the manufacturer must supply. A sample

purchase specification for using the criteria is contained in appendix D.

2. DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FIREFIGHTERS' TURNOUT COATS

2.1. Purpose

The purpose is to Improve the protection afforded firefighters by

their turnout coats and to Insure the durability of the coats. The criteria will serve as a guide for fire officers and others responsible for

purchasing protective clothing for f iref ighting. This document may be

referenced completely or in part in purchase specifications. If referenced

in its entirety, care should be taken to specify the particular options

desired; for example, the type of closures and the size and location of

pockets. This document is not intended to serve as a detailed manufacturing specification. It has been prepared, as far as practicable, in

terms of required performance, avoiding specifications of materials or designs so phrased as to preclude obtaining the desired results by other

means. It is not the intention of this document to bar from consideration

materials of Improved quality or special designs if they meet the performance requirements.

2.2. Scope

A turnout coat is an outer garment worn to protect the upper portion

of the firefighter's body, excluding the head and hands, while he is

engaged in structural f iref ighting. This document covers coats designed

for protection against extremes of temperature, sharp objects, steam, hot

water, hot particles, and other hazards encountered during fire and emergencies. The report presents requirements that are applicable to both

water-permeable and impermeable outer shells. Additional requirements

applicable only to Impermeable coats, which should be included in the

purchase specification are: brittleness at low temperature, coating

thickness, and coating adhesion; these are not treated here but should be

considered where impermeable coats are purchased.

2
2.3. General

Requirement - The coat shall consist of an outer shell, vapor barrier,

and insulation. (The outer shell may serve as the vapor barrier.) The

vapor barrier shall have a minimum water penetration of 25 psi when tested

using method 5512 of Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, "Textile Test

Methods," [1]^ and shall be insulated from the body for protection from

trapped steam. Later issues of all referenced publications shall be used

provided the requirements are applicable and consistent with the issue

designated. In those instances where specific requirements are not provided in this report nor in the purchase specification, the coat shall be

made in accordance with good commercial practice.

Comment - Design considerations for air circulation and impact resistance are given in appendix A, as are guidelines on padding, color selection, water repellency and pocket selection. Items of equal performance

and safety should be allowed as substitutes for those specified provided

that adequate technical evidence is given and that the substitute is

approved by a technically qualified representative of the purchaser (when

applicable), the senior officer of the Fire Department and by the purchasing agent. High quality (durability) requirements have been set for

the outer shell and the inner most liner by setting relatively high tear

strength requirements for these items. The tear strength requirement for

the outer shell material is based on the results of actual tests conducted

by those associated with the fire services at seminars held during the

development of the standard. A department having relatively high firefighting demands, or other such reasons, may wish to save money by purchasing a less durable coat. Since the tear strength test is the one most related to durability, a less durable coat can be obtained by specifying a lower level on the tear strength test than the level stated in

table 1.

2.3.1. Sizing

Comment - Proper sizing is an important safety characteristic and

custom ordering of coats or ordering by traditional coat sizes (e.g. 34,

36, 38 etc., short, medium, and long) are good methods of selection. In

selecting a coat length, consideration should be given to the protection

afforded the leg and buttocks area by boots and pants. While the coats

shall be made to allow room for air circulation, in cities with very cold

winters it may be desirable to order coats slightly larger than needed to

allow room for sweaters or vests, or to specify that an additional liner

be added. This additional liner is not considered an insulation liner for

the purpose of the labeling requirement in 2.3.3.11. [4]

Numbers in brackets refer to the literature references listed in

appendix E.

3
Table 1. Outer Shell Requirements

\j L LCL L. CI L. ^ 1- -1- O -1- ^ O CL LIU X ^ O i- L^ L. i 1 ^-f U O **

ASTM Method D 2263 "Automotive Fabrics

Tpctine X. O w ^ X Xf^ y " TranP70id X. ^ CX £^ \^ _1_ U. Tparine J. CX ^ -l_ X Lf-^ T.nari J—1 N-r ' * ofv/ X- Unvpn VV \-/ V XX fabTxc^ X. CX l_/ i- -1- »— Cj TTiPthod 111^ I— XX WU. ^ PxcpDt" ^ ./V V_ v_ L/ L- fhat" 1 XCX U. t"Hp 1 X ^ t'p^iTinp" L. \^ CX X. J_ X Strength of the specimen shall be the

average of the five highest peak loads

o'F T* pc: T e l-p np p rl 1 T PC>"P T" rl T Ti O" f~bp "FiT^it" Tri 0"b nppV T"PO"TQt*Pi*pd foT" ttipHpq O'F c:fin;=iT*?^t''iO'n ni" t"bp t~*=»:^T* I*?!

Color fastness (minimum)

vjUUQ

J. 4J XdLlLKJ. i. ^ iUc:uLIiJLL ' WXL.lHJLll_ U-Lcdl— 11 Prior)

Tn PTOplrino" Tnpt~V»r»rl SASl

Shrinkage in laundering

AATCC method 96 - Test IV E [3]

..r^ Mpv pbpnO"P nn Ipno"!"}! +3%

Max phanffp In width +3%

Max. difference between length and width ~3%

W^i 1"PT ;^b*=inT*nt'i on mpt'bnd SSOD ^9ft/ ^ /O TPPxiTTnim LILCl,A. JLllLUlLl (^cpp y O C C pnnfi'nrlTX d W C. LIVJ. xTX^ AS 1*nT* J- W J. tXn"FoT"m;^ LL^ W i- Llld 1"

L. t onLI. on f' (^y T'f^'npllpnr'v 1

Flame resistance (including trim)

Method 5903

Char length (inches), (max.) 4.0

After flame (seconds), (max.) 2.0

k

Unless otherwise indicated, the test method references pertain to

^Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, "Textile Test Methods."

All requirements above are also applicable after five cycles of

laundering and drying in accordance with American Association of

^Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Method 96 Test IV-E.

Information - Material meeting this strength (durability) requirement

and all other requirements specified is available. However, a Fire

Department may wish to use a lower performance level for tear strength

because their light firefighting demands permit the use of a less durable and less expensive coat, (see section 2.3.)
2.3.2. Stitching

Requirement - Each load-bearing seam, including pockets, their dividers, and the storm flap, shall possess a breaking strength of at least

80 pounds or 80 percent of the outer shell material when tested in accor- dance with ASTM D 1683-68, "Standard Method of Test for Seam Breaking

Strength (Load) of Woven Textile Fabrics" (with the machine operated at a rate of 12 + 1/2 in/min) . [5] The fiber stitching shall be compatible with

the shell material and shall not carbonize at a temperature below 700 °F

(351 °C).

2.3.3. Outer Shell

General - For those fire departments which consider the purchase of an impermeable outer shell necessary for the reasons indicated in appendix

A5., such a coat should be considered in compliance with this report provided the variations from this report for the outer shell are approved by

the purchasing fire department and specified in the purchase document. It

should be noted that it will be difficult, if not impossible, for existing

impermeable coats to meet the combination of requirements for the outer

shell in this report. When the manufacture of impermeable coats meeting

all the requirements of this report becomes practicable, this exception

should be considered terminated.

2.3.3.1. Material

Requirement - The outer shell shall be fabricated of material meeting

the requirements specified in table 1. All requirements are also applicable after five cycles of laundering and drying in accordance with American

Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Method 96-Test-IV-E.

(This is a commercial laundering and drying cycle which provides a 203° to

212 °F (95° - 100 °C) exposure in a water environment for the material.)

This provides a steam-like exposure for the coat. The manufacturer must

also provide the purchaser with the following information prior to purchase; exact performance levels to be set by local options:

1. Evidence or a guarantee of the durability of the coat.

(While the tear strength requirement should provide an indication of the durability of the outer shell, some supporting evidence of the coat's overall durability

is needed.)

2. Evidence of the satisfactory stability of the fabric at

high temperature, including temperature/shrinkage curves

and the temperature at which a fabric will char, separate,

and melt. All results shall show the effects of temperature exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

3. Evidence of the fabric's resistance to caustic substances.

5
Comment - Requirements for durability, high-temperature performance

and resistance to caustic substances are left to local option for two

reasons: (1) different levels of performance will be required by different

departments, depending on their size, geographical location, and the kinds

of fires they are most likely to encounter; and (2) single test methods

are not capable of measuring the appropriate performance characteristics

over a range wide enough to accommodate all local requirements.

In setting performance levels for these characteristics, the local

fire department should consider the frequency with which the coats will

be used and the likelihood that they will be exposed to severe thermal or chemical conditions.

2.3.3.2. Visibility

Requirement - The coat shall have a minimum lightness in color or shall be trimmed with fluorescent tape. If a minimum color visibility is

selected as the alternative, it shall be not less than Munsell Value

7/(43.06%) for CIE source "C" (6774K) when tested in accordance with either

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Method D 1535-68,

"Standard Method of Specifying Color by The Munsell System" [6] or ASTM

E 308-66, "Standard Recommended Practice for Spectrophotometry and

Description of Color in CIE 1931 System." [7]

Comment - The color requirement establishes a minimum acceptable

level of visibility. It will include most whites and yellows. Of the

non-white colors, yellow and yellow green have been found to be highly

visible. The visibility of the coat in the day time can be further

increased by the use of fluorescent materials. Visibility at night can be

increased by the use of retro-reflective materials (see 2.3.3.9.). To

continue the benefits of a visible coat, the outer coat should be periodically cleaned. A label with washing instructions is required on the

inside of the coat (see 2.3.3.11.).

Requirement - The coat shall contain at a minimum, ref lectorized trim,

and when specified, fluorescent trim, as follows (all tape shall be at

least 2 inches wide)

1. circumference band on each sleeve just above cuff line,

2. circumference band around bottom of coat, and

3. additional striping on the front and back of the upper

portion of the coat as selected by the purchaser.

Comment - A possible configuration for ref lectorized trim would be:

1. Back:

° Two 15-inch vertical stripes (separation between vertical

stripes 15 inches)

6
2. Front:

° One 30-inch vertical stripe

° Two 17-inch vertical side stripes

° (separation between vertical stripes approximately 3 inches)

2.3.3.3. Collar

Requirement - The collar shall be snug fitting and comfortable and

shall completely cover the neck and throat when in the raised position.

A throat strap of at least 3 inches in width shall be sewn to the underside of the collar on the left side and shall be closed by means of hook

and pile fastener tape or by a snap fastener. It shall be held in the

stowed position by a portion of tape or by a snap fastener. When used,

tape shall conform to the requirements of section 2.3.8. No snaps shall

directly contact the skin when the collar is in the closed position. The

collar shall provide water penetration protection at least equal to the

vapor barrier (see section 2.3.).

Comment - If the material in the outer shell is rough, the purchaser

may wish to specify that a liner material be used. Such a material could

be preshrunk cotton corduroy (10 wales per inch minimum), moleskin, or other soft material meeting the requirements in table 2 (fabric weight

requirement applicable to corduroy only.) The cotton corduroy specified

is soft and if charred, the charred portion can be brushed away if not

extensively burned and the coat can be continued in use with little or no irritation to the firefighter's neck. Based upon a number of comments

received during the development of this standard, a better covering for

the back of the neck would be desirable (that is, one that would better

keep out embers, etc.). Such a covering should be in conformance with

these criteria if its material and construction are consistent with the

requirements of this report. If the use of such a covering would cover

ears that would otherwise be exposed, the loss of the ears as a heat sensor

and interference with hearing should be considered in deciding upon the use of such an item.

Requirement - The sleeves shall be attached to the coat so that there

is no restriction and the wrist remains covered when the arms are raised

above the head.

Comment - Outer shell material meeting the requirements of these criteria should provide significant wear resistance for the entire sleeve.

(See section 2.3.3.1. on obtaining wearability data from the manufacturer.)

An optional reinforcement for the lower part of the sleeve, which must be

specified, could be leather meeting the requirements of 2.3.6. or any

materials which meet the requirements of table 1.

2.3.3.4. Sleeves

7
Table 2. Requirements for Corduroy Used In Collar

Characteristics and Test Methods — Requirements

_ Fabric Weight 9 oz/yd minimum

Method 5041

Breaking strength

Method 5100

Flame resistance

Method 5903

35 lb minimum in warp

and fill

Char length - 4.0 inch

maximum

After flame time - 2.0 second maximum

Colorfastness to perspiration

AATCC Method No. 15

Color change

Staining

Class 3.5 or better

Class 3.5 or better

Shrinkage in laundering

AATCC Method No. 96 - Test IV-E

Maximum change in length

Maximum change in width

Results to be reported

after 5 laundering cycles

+5%

+5%

Maximum difference between

length and width 5%

Unless otherwise indicated, the test method references pertain to

^^Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, "Textile Test Methods."

All requirements above are also applicable after five cycles of

laundering and drying in accordance with American Association of

Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Method 96 - Test IV-E.

8
2.3.3.5. Wristlets

Requirement - Each sleeve shall have a suitable and durable wristlet

which meets the f lamraability requirements for trim (see table 1) . The

wristlet ensemble will be of a configuration such that the material will

form a well to collect water below the wristlet when the arm is in the

raised position.

Requirement - The shoulder and backyoke shall be reinforced from a point on the front of the coat at least 4 1/2 inches from the crown of the

shoulder to a point on the back of the coat at least 6 inches from the

bottom of the collar by a double thickness of material meeting the

requirements for the outer shell.

Requirement - The front of the coat shall close in a manner which

provides secure protection from steam and water when the coat is worn and

shall allow freedom for leg movement. Conventional coat designs utilize

a storm flap to provide this protection. When a storm flap is used,

acceptable inside closures shall be hook and pile fastener tape at least

1-inch wide conforming to the requirements of section 2.3.8. (snaps or other mechanisms shall be provided for aligning the tape) ; 4 sets of hook

and dee rings conforming to the requirements of 2.3.7.1., spaced approximately 7 inches apart, or snap fasterners conforming to the requirements

of section 2.3.7.3. spaced approximately 7 inches apart. If the inside

closure is hooks and dee rings, the outside closure shall be hook and

pile fastener tape at least 2-inches wide conforming to the requirements

of section 2.3.8., or snap fasteners conforming to the requirements of

2.3.7.3. If the inside closures are snaps or hook and pile fastener tape,

the outside closure shall be hook and dee rings conforming to the requirements of 2.3.7.1. or hook and pile fastener tape at least 2-inches wide

conforming to the requirements of 2.3.7.3.

Comment - Any combination that does not include hook and dee rings

should be specified by the purchaser and approved by his technically

qualified representative and by the senior officer of the Fire Department,

based in part on a demonstration by the manufacturer of the ability of

the closure to provide an acceptable closure when flexed and strained as in use.

Requirement - Each rivet hole for both snaps and dees shall be supported or reinforced on the inside with appropriate material, such as a patch of leather of any type, but having the same minimum thickness as the leather specified in 2.3.6.

2.3.3.6. Shoulder and Backyoke

2.3.3.7. Storm Flap and Closures

9
2.3.3.8. Pockets

Requirement - The location, size and number of pockets shall be as agreed upon between buyer and seller. (See appendix A6. for guidelines

on pocket selection.) They shall be reinforced in all four corners and at

flap corners with a series of stitches forming a bar. Each rivet shall be

reinforced with appropriate material such as a patch of leather complying

with the requirements of 2.3.6. Each outside pocket shall have a flap of

at least 3 inches in depth. On the outside, the lower 5 inches of the

pocket shall be reinforced with a material meeting the requirements of

table 1. An optional reinforcement could be leather meeting the requirements of 2.3.6. The pocket shall also have two holes at the bottom, providing a means of drainage for water.

2.3.3.9. Retro-reflective Material Use

Requirement - The retro-ref lectorized fabric shall be as described

in 2.3.9. and shall be sewn to the coat.

2.3.3.10. Attachment of Linings

Requirement - Lining shall be securely attached to the outer shell

in the neck, front face and wristlet areas by snap fasteners or by stitching

except that in the neck area hook and pile fastener tape may be used. If

snap fasteners are used, two shall be positioned on each sleeve, just above

the wristlets. The metal of these fasteners shall not extend from the

outside surface of the coat to the inside surface as worn. Fastener tape

shall conform to the requirements of 2.3.8.

2.3.3.11. Labels

Requirement - Each outer shell shall have sewn to the inside in a location not covered by the lining (e.g., inside front flap), one or more

permanent labels stating the following:

1. Fiber content of the outer shell fabric, to conform with the

"Rules and Regulations under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act,"

2. Size of coat for which the outer shell is designed (see 2.3.1.),

3. Care instructions, including minimum instructions for washing

or cleaning. These instructions shall include instructions for

home machine laundering and a cautionary statement if this washing

can remove the water repellent treatment.

4. A warning that for effective firefighting protection, the coat

must be fully assembled to include the vapor barrier (s) and all

insulation layers. (This label is not required if all linings are sewn to the outer shell.)

10
5. A warning that the coat is not a proximity or entry suit and

should not be kept in direct contact with flames.

2.3.3.12. Hangar Loops

Requirement - Unless otherwise specified, a fabric hangar loop shall

be provided inside the neck. It shall be sewn in so that it shall not

tear or separate from the coat when the coat is hung up by the hangar loop,

loaded evenly with a weight of 100 pounds, and allowed to hang for one minute

2.3.4. Linings

(Linings provide insulation, limited padding, and in many cases the

vapor barrier.)

2.3.4.1. Material

Requirement - The linings shall be fabricated of material meeting the

requirements specified in table 3. The requirements contained therein are also applicable after five cycles of laundering and drying in accordance

with AATCC Method 96 Test III-E except that for those linings next to the

body which do not have the vapor barrier integral to them, the laundering

requirement will be in accordance with the washing instructions on the

label. The manufacturer must also provide information on the high

temperature stability of the fabric prior to purchase, to include temperature/shrinkage curves, and an indication of the temperature at which

a fabric will char, separate and melt, with all results showing the

effects of temperature exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

Comment - As in the case for the outer shell, requirements for hightemperature performance will vary depending upon the firefighting con- ditions to be encountered. Requirements are therefore left to local

option.

2.3.4.2. General Configuration and Measurements

Requirement - The linings shall have the general configuration indicated in figure 1 and shall extend to within 3 inches of the hem of the

coat. Their sizing shall be compatible with that of the outer shell so they do not buckle, pull, or otherwise restrict body motion, even when

the arms are raised directly overhead.

11
Table 3. Requirements for Linings

Characteristics and Test Methods Requirements

Tear strength, ASTM Method D2263, "Trapezoid Tearing Load of Woven Fabrics

Method," except that the tearing

strength of the specimen shall be the

average of the five highest peak loads

of resistance, disregarding the first

high peak, registered for 3 inches of

separation of the tear.

Lining type

Single layer & multiple

layer (lining next to body)

Warp - 15 lb, minimum

Fill - 10 lb, minimum

Multiple layer (lining

next to shell, i.e., vapor

barrier.

)

Warp - 4 lbs, minimum

Fill - 3 lbs, minimum

Water absorption. Method 5500 40% maximum

Shrinkage in laundering

AATCC Method 96-Test III E, except

. that for those linings next to the body

which do not have the vapor barrier

integral to them, the laundering

requirement will be in accordance with

the washing instructions on the label.

•' (5 cycles)

Lining type

Single layer and multiple

layer (lining next to body)-

Max. change in length +3%

Max. change in width +3%

Max. difference between

length & width - 3%

Multiple layer (lining next

to shell, i.e., vapor

barrier) - Max. change in length +5%

Max. change in width +5%

Max. difference between

length and width - 5%

Flame resistance, Method 5903

Char length, maximum (inches)

After flame, maximum (seconds)

6.0

2.0

Unless otherwise indicated, the test method references pertain to

k-k Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, "Textile Test Methods."

All Requirements above are also applicable after five cycles of

laundering and drying in accordance with American Association of

Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Method 96-Test III-E unless

otherwise indicated.

Information - Purchase of a less durable material may be acceptable

under the standard provided the purchaser agrees to a decrease in the

quality and strength received (see 2.3.).

12
Figure 1. General configuration of linings

showing snap fastener locations.

13
2.3.4.3. Attachment to Outer Shell and Other Linings

Requirement - Attachment shall be in accordance with 2.3.3.10.

2.3.4.4. Labels

Requirement - Each lining shall have sewn visibly to the inside, near

the neck, one or more permanent labels stating the following:

1. fiber content of the lining fabric, to conform with the "Rules

and Regulations under the Textile Fiber Products Identification

Act,"

2. size of the coat for which the lining is designed, (see 2.3.1.),

and

3. care instructions, including minimum instructions for cleaning

or washing. These instructions shall include home machine

laundering instructions.

2.3.5. Requirements for the Assembled Coat

2.3.5.1. Total Weight

Requirement - The total weight of a size 40 (40-inch back length —

back length from collar base to coat bottom) coat shall not exceed 6.0

pounds when weighed on a scale with an accuracy of + 0.1 pound. Other

sizes shall vary in weight in proportion to the variation in fabric area

required. The coat shall be conditioned and weighed at Standard Atmospheric conditions in accordance with Section 4 of Fed. 191.

2.3.5.2. Thickness (Insulation Provision)

Requirement - The minimum thickness of the assembled coat shall be

0.175 inch when tested using a compressometer with a 3- inch diameter

presser foot set at 0.05 psi, following the procedure outlined in American

Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Method D1777-64 (70) , "Thickness

of Textile Materials, Measuring," [8] allowing 5 seconds to lapse between

the application of the load and the thickness reading.

Comment - This requirement is a minimum thickness based on what

appears practicable at this time. It can be expected that increased

insulation from the heat of the fire can be obtained up to 0.250 inches

thickness, however, and thicker composites should therefore be obtained

when possible.

Requirement - The manufacturer shall supply information on the thick- ness of the coat prior to sale.

14
2.3.6. Leather

Requirement - When used to reinforce cuffs and pockets, leather shall

be a flesh split cattlehide, suede natural finish, conforming to Type III,

Class 2 of Federal Specification KK-L-162, "Leather, Cattlehide, Chrome

Tanned for Gloves, Garments and Equipment," [9] except that the shrinkage

temperature shall not be less than 230 °F (110 °C) and the requirements

for chloroform extract, ash content, chrome oxide, and acidity (pH) shall

not apply. The thickness of the leather shall be not less than 2 1/2 ounces nor more than 4 1/2 ounces when tested in accordance with Method

1011 of Federal Test Method Standard No. 311, "Leather, Methods of Sampling

and Testing." The water resistance shall be 50 taps when tested in accordance with Method 8121 of Fed. 311. [10]

2.3.7. Hardware

Requirement - All outer surfaces on metal parts shall be nonferrous

to avoid sparking and shall be rust resistant.

2.3.7.1. Hooks and Dees

Requirement - The hooks and dees shall be aluminum and shall conform

in general to the design and dimensions shown in figure 2 (4 vs 3 stays are

allowed). The top hook may be outward facing. The casting shall be sound,

smooth, and free from fracture and repair such as impregnations, peening

and weld. The commercial finish of the hooks and dees shall be free of

any rough spots, burrs, and sharp or rough edges.

2.3.7.2. Rivets

Requirement - The rivets for attaching hooks and dees shall be 9/64

inch nominal size and shall conform to Type XII, Class 3, Grade B of

Federal Specification FF-R-556C, "Rivet, Solid, Small; Rivet, Split, Small;

Rivet, Tubular, Small; Bur and Cups, Rivet; General Purpose" except that

the inside of the rivet shank may be chamfered. [11]

2.3.7.3. Snap Fasteners

Requirement - The snap fasteners for attachment of the outer shell and

innerlinings to each other shall conform to style 2 of Military Specification MIL-F-10884D, "Fasteners, Snaps." [12]

2.3.8. Fastener Tape

Requirement - Fastener tape, hook and pile, used for pockets, collar,

and storm flap closures shall conform to Type II, Class 4, of MIL-F-21840D,

"Fastener Tapes, Hook and Pile, Synthetic." [13] Other fastener tape may

15
16
used provided it meets or exceeds the performance of that specified.

Comment - This tape at present does not meet the flammability requirements provided for trim. Use of the tape should be allowed however,

provided the manufacturer supplies information on the flammability of the

material prior to sale and provided the variations from the report are approved by the purchasing fire department and specified in the purchase

document. When the manufacture of hook and pile fastener tape meeting all

the requirements of this report becomes practicable, the provision of this

exception should be considered terminated.

Requirement - The manufacturer shall also provide information to the

purchaser, prior to sale, on the high temperature stability of the tape,

to include an indication of the temperature at which the tape will char,

melt, or shrink, with all results showing the effects of temperature

exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

2.3.9. Retro-reflective Material Properties

Requirement - The manufacturer must in all cases provide information

to the purchaser, prior to sale, on the high temperature stability of the

fabric, to include temperature/shrinkage curves and an indication of the

temperature at which a fabric will char and melt, with all results showing

the effects of temperature exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

Comment - While use of retro-reflective trim material is an important

safety feature for firefighters' outer wear, no national standard exists

setting minimum performance requirements for this material for use on firefighters' coats. Users should therefore give consideration to the

performance of those materials which have been used in the past. While

some retro-reflective material may meet the flammability requirements for

trim provided in this report, these materials have not been field tested.

For this reason, retro-reflective material that does not meet the flammability requirements in the report can be used provided variations from the

report are approved by the purchasing fire department and specified in the

purchase document.

17
APPENDIX A. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Al. Air Circulation

Air circulation within the coat is desirable for cooling. Designs

which could promote this characteristic would be the use of spacers within the coat, billowing designs at the bottom of the coat, air inlets under

the flap in the shoulder area and air inlets under the arms. The effect

of air inlets under the arms however, appears to be small. Billow designs

should not be such as to allow easy entry of flames to the linings of the

coat. Belts, it should be noted, serve to increase the heat storage level

A2. Impact Resistance

Striking and being struck by objects are the most frequent causes of

injury at a fire, and of these, injuries to the upper extremities are the

most numerous. Incorporation of impact protection in the coat by means

of padding should be considered highly desirable, provided the weight of

the coat is not increased beyond the specified weight requirements, thereby increasing the danger of fatigue and heat strain, the most severe of

the various types of injuries.

r - A3. Padding

Consideration should be given by the purchaser to specifying elbow

protection for wear resistance and heat protection when crawling.

A4. Color

The following information is offered for guidance in the selection

of color:

1. Light colors assist visibility;

2. For thermal comfort in sunlight, color has a strong effect on solar heating load, and light colors, as expected, tend to be

best. However, when the coat is soiled, this effect is reduced;

3. For radiant heat protection from fires, color has only a small

effect on reducing the radiative heating load and soiled or wet

clothing may negate any color effect entirely;

4. Only special aluminized fabric constructions or reflective pigments offer a distinct improvement in reducing the radiative

heat load from fires and these only when used on the outer shell.

18
A5. Water Repellency

A high degree of water repellency can be obtained by specifying that

a water repellent treatment be placed on materials that are not inherently

water repellent. This treatment is susceptible to removal after several

home washings however, and must then be renewed. While the flammability

requirements of this report apply to the coat after it has been treated for

water repellency, care must be taken in the selection of subsequent treatments to insure that the flammability of the coat is not increased. A

permeable coat, even with a water repellent treatment, can absorb considerable water and hold it for evaporation and cooling of the wearer, although

this will add additional weight. The value of this factor has also been

questioned by some persons commenting. Water on an impermeable outer shell

runs off quickly and there is little water present at any instant for evaporative cooling. This characteristic may be offset in the selection of

coats by departments however, by the ability of impermeable outer shells to

reduce ice formation on the coats in freezing conditions and by their

ability to dry faster. A material which is available, and which increases

the water repellency of the coat is back-coated flame resistant fabric.

This type fabric might also provide the vapor barrier. A method which can be used to test the water resistance of the coats is Method 5526, "Water

Resistance of Cloth with Hydrophobic Finish; Spray Method," of Fed. 191.

A description of this test follows.

A6. Pocket Selection

Care should be taken to specify pockets large enough to carry those

tools and items normally carried by the intended users. Placement should

allow for access to the pockets while wearing breathing apparatus. Specifying ballooned pockets will increase capacity, but may interfere with

maneuverability. Ballooning only the back edges may serve to minimize

the maneuverability problem. Divided pockets may be desired, as well as pockets for specific items, such as masks and radios. Fastening mechanisms for the mask on the outside of the coat in the area of the left

shoulder might also be considered.

19
A7. FEDERAL TEST METHOD STANDARD NO. 191

METHOD 5526

31 December 1968

WATER RESISTANCE OF CLOTH WITH HYDROPHOBIC FINISH;

SPRAY METHOD

1. SCOPE

1.1 This method is intended for determining the hydrophobic effectiveness of water-repellent finishes applied to cloth by measuring the amount

of water absorbed.

2. TEST SPECIMEN

2.1 The specimen shall be a square of cloth 8 inches by 8 inches.

3. APPARATUS (Fig. 5526A)

3.1 Six- inch glass laboratory funnel held by a laboratory ring support.

3.2 Spray nozzle of 1-7/16 inch outside diameter having a convex face

with a 1-1/4 inch radius and connected to the funnel with a piece of 3/8

inch rubber tubing.

3.2.1 The nozzle shall be provided with 19 holes, 0.035 inch in diameter (No. 65 drill), having 1 hole in the center, 6 evenly spaced holes

on a 25/64 inch diameter circle concentric with the outside circumference

of the nozzle.

3.2.2 The distance from the top of the funnel to the bottom of the

nozzle shall be 7-1/2 inches.

3.3 Metal embroidery hoops 6 to 7 inches in diameter for mounting the

specimen.

3.4 Block of wood for supporting the mounted specimen so that the plane

of the specimen makes an angle of 45° with the horizontal.

3.5 The distance from the bottom of the nozzle to the center of the

hoop-mounted specimen shall be 6 inches.

20
A7. FEDERAL TEST METHOD STANDARD NO. 191, Cont'd

METHOD 5526

4. PROCEDURE

4.1 Unless otherwise specified in the material specification, the

specimen shall be securely mounted, finished side up, in the embroidery

hoops with sufficient tension to insure a uniformly smooth surface.

4.2 Unless otherwise specified in the material specification, the

direction of the flow of water down the specimen shall coincide witht he

warpwise direction of the specimen as placed on the stand.

4.3 The mounted specimen shall be placed on the block with the center

of the specimen directly beneath the center of the nozzle and the plane

of the surface of the specimen at a 45° angle with the horizontal.

4.4 A 250-ml volume of distilled water at a temperature of 26.7° +

1.0 °C (80° +1.8 °F) shall be poured quickly into the funnel and allowed

to spray onto the specimen which should take approximately 25 to 30

seconds

4.5 Upon completion of the spraying period, the hoop shall be grasped

at one edge and the opposite edge tapped downward against a solid object,

the wet side of the specimen being face down during tapping. The hoop

shall then be turned 180°, grasped at the opposite edge, and similarly

tapped at the point previously held.

4.6 After tapping, the finished side of the cloth shall be compared

with the standard figure 5526B and the wetted and/or spotted pattern on the

specimen assigned a rating corresponding to the nearest standard rating.

4.6.1 No attempt shall be made to assign to the cloth an intermediate

rating.

4.6.2 In rating light porous cloth, passage of water through the open

construction of the cloth shall be disregarded.

5 . REPORT

5.1 Unless otherwise specified in the material specification, three

specimens shall be tested from each sample unit.

5.2 Spray rating shall be reported for each specimen tested.

21
22
METHOD 5526

STANDARD SPRAY TEST RATINGS

100- NO STICKING OR WETTING OF UPPER SURFACE

90-SLIGHT RANDOM STICKING OR WETTING OF

UPPER SURFACE.

80- WETTING OF UPPER SURFACE AT SPRAY POINTS.

70- PARTIAL WETTING OF WHOLE UPPER SURFACE.

50-COMPLETE WETTING OF WHOLE OF UPPER SURFACE.

O-COMPLETE WETTING OF WHOLE OF UPPER AND

LOWER SURFACES.

COLORED WATER USED FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC EFFECT

Figure A2 . Standard Spray Test Ratings, Federal Test

Method Standard No. 191, Method 5526

23
APPENDIX B. OPTIONS AND OTHER ITEMS OF CONCERN

TO POTENTIAL USERS OF THIS CRITERIA

This summary provides a listing of acceptable alternatives

under the criteria in the report. Those referencing the

report in a purchase specification could limit their

attention to the items covered in this summary.

(Sections Correspond to Numbered Headings in Section 2)

Purpose (2.1.) The report is not intended to serve as a detailed manufacturers' specification. It was prepared, as far as practicable, in

terms of required performance, avoiding specifications of materials or designs so phrased as to preclude obtaining the desired results by other

means. It is not the intention of the report to bar from consideration

materials of improved quality or special designs if they satisfactorily

meet the performance requirements. Consideration must be given to specifying the items listed herein when preparing the purchase specification.

Scope (2.2.) If an impermeable shell coat is to be purchased, additional

requirements not provided in this report, but which should be included in

the purchase specification when ordering are:

1. Brittleness at low temperature

2. Coating thickness

3. Coating adhesion

General (2.3.) Some general requirements that pertain to options are as follows:

A. Items of equal performance and safety should be allowed as substitutes for those specified in these criteria provided that

adequate technical evidence of their acceptability is supplied and

provided that the substitute is approved by a technically qualified representative of the purchaser (when applicable) , the senior

officer of the Fire Department, and by the purchasing agent.

Purchase of a less durable material might be considered provided

the purchaser agrees to a decrease in the quality and strength

received. (See 2.3. and table 1)

B. General design options for liners which the purchaser will want

to address are as follows:

1. Number of liners

2. Position of vapor barrier (must be insulated from the body)

3. Material for liners may be specified.

24
Sizing (2.3.1.) Proper sizing is an important safety characteristic.

Coats may be custom ordered or ordered by traditional coat sizes. The

following must be considered:

1. Number of coats by size must be specified (see 2.3.1. for sizing

guidelines .

)

2. In selecting a coat length, consideration should be given to the

protection afforded the leg and buttocks areas by the boots and

pants.

3. In cities with very cold winters it may be desirable to order

coats slightly larger than needed to allow room for sweaters or vests, or to specify that an additional liner be added.

Outer shell (2.3.3. ) For those fire departments who consider purchase

of an impermeable outer shell necessary for the reasons indicated in

appendix A5 in the design considerations, such a coat should be considered

in compliance with this report provided the variations from this report

for the outer shell are approved by the purchasing fire department and

specified in the purchase document. When the manufacture of impermeable

coats meeting all the requirements of this report becomes practicable this

provision should be considered terminated.

Note: A material which is available and which increases the water

repellency of the coat but which has not been field tested to our knowledge, is back-coated fabric. This type fabric might also provide the

vapor barrier.

The following must also be considered:

1. Specific materials meeting the requirements of the standard may

be specified by the purchaser.

2. While the tear strength requirement should provide an indication

of the durability of the outer shell, some supporting evidence or guarantee of the overall durability of the coats must be provided

by the manufacturer prior to purchase.

3. An indication of the satisfactory high temperature stability of

the fabric must be provided by the manufacturer prior to purchase

This shall include temperature/shrinkage curves and an indication

of the temperature at which the fabric will char, separate and

melt, with all results showing the effects of temperature exposures

in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

4. The manufacturer must supply an indication of the resistance of

the fabrics to caustic substances.

25
Visibility (2.3.3.2.) The purchaser must specify a color meeting the

visibility requirements criteria or may select as an alternative that the

coat be trimmed with fluorescent tape. With regard to color, of the non- white colors, yellow and yellow-green have been found to be highly visible,

and the visibility of the coat in the day time can be further increased by

the use of fluorescent materials. Visibility at night can be increased

by the use of retro-reflective materials. Guidelines on the placement of

tape are given in 2.3.3.2.

Collar (2.3.3.3. ) If the material of the outer shell is rough, the purchaser has the option of specifying corduroy, moleskin, or other soft

material meeting the requirements in section 2.3.3.3. as a collar lining

material. The cotton corduroy specified is soft and can be brushed away

if not extensively charred and the coat can be continued in use with little

or no irritation to the fireman's neck.

Note: Based upon a number of comments received during the development of the report, a better (that is one that would better keep out

embers etc.) covering for the back of the neck would be desirable. If

the use of such a covering would cover ears that would otherwise be exposed,

the loss of the ears as a heat sensor and the interference with hearing

should be considered in deciding upon the use of such an item.

Sleeves (2.3.3.4.) While the outer shell material meeting the requirements of this report should provide significant wear resistance for the

entire sleeve, an optional reinforcement for the lower part of the sleeve

could be leather meeting the requirements of 2.3.6. or any materials which

meet the requirements of table 1. (See 2.3.3.1. on obtaining wearability

data from the manufacturer.)

Storm Flaps and Closures (2.3.3.7.) Any of the following meeting the

requirements of the report are an option:

1. Hooks and dee rings on inside, hook and pile fastener tape on outside

2. Hooks and dee rings on inside, snaps on outside.

3. Hook and pile fastener tape on the inside, hook and dee rings

on the outside.

4. Hook and pile fastener tape on the Inside and the outside.

5. Snaps on inside, hook and dee rings on outside.

6. Snaps on inside, hook and pile tape on outside.

See 2.3.3.7. and 2.3.8. for responsibility of the manufacturer if hook

and pile fastener closures are specified. Minimum width requirements are specified for the tape, but wider tapes would allow for greater adjustment.

26
Note: When one of the combinations that does not use hook and dee

rings is used, the manufacturer should demonstrate the ability of the

closure to provide an acceptable closure when flexed and strained as in use. Whenever used, the manufacturer must supply information on the

flame-resistance and high temperature stability of the hook and pile

fastener tape in accordance with section 2.3.8. of the report.

Pockets (2.3.3.8.) Number, size and placement of pockets are to be specified based on the recommendations in appendix A6. Optional reinforcement

for the lower 5 inches can be leather meeting the requirement of 2.3.6.

Retro-reflective Material Use (2.3.3.9.) See the sample purchase specification in appendix D for a suggested placement. The following can be

specified if desired as additional marking: F. D. emblem, F. D. name,

firefighters' name, company name and/or number, job speciality symbol.

Attachment of Linings (2.3.3.10 .) It may be specified that they be attached

by snap fasteners, stitching, or in the neck area by hook and pile closures.

Sewn in liners insure that the protection afforded by the coat will be

available at all times.

Linings (2.3.4. ) It may be desirable that the lining be of a style which

would permit being used as an outer garment when the outer shell is removed

for tasks such as overhauling. (This option would however, prevent the

option of receiving the insured protection of a sewn in liner.

)

Lining Material (2.3.4.1.) Specific materials meeting the requirements

of the report may be specified by the purchaser. Purchase of a less

durable material for the liner next to the body is acceptable under the

report provided the purchaser agrees to a decrease in the quality and

strength received (see 2.3. and table 3 in the standard). The manufacturer

must provide information on the high temperature stability of the liner

material

Thickness (Insulation Provision) (2.3.5.2 .) The report provides a minimum thickness based on what appears practicable at this time. It can be

expected that increased insulation from the heat of the fire can be

obtained up to 0.250 inches thickness, however, and thicker composites

should therefore be obtained when possible. The manufacturer shall supply

information on the thickness of the coat prior to sale.

Fastener Tape (2.3.8.) Information on the high temperature stability of

the tape must be supplied by the seller.

Retro-reflective Material Properties (2.3.9.) A specific color for the

retro-reflective fabric should be selected within the provisions of 2.3.9.

Information on the high temperature stability of the fabric must be supplied

by the seller.

27
Design Considerations - Design considerations are provided for the following in appendix A, and should be considered prior to selecting a coat:

1. Air circulation 4. Color

2. Impact resistance 5. Water repellency

3. Padding on elbows 6. Pocket selection

Extra Materials - If practicable, provisions should be made with supplier

that he make available the materials necessary to repair coats that become

damaged

28
APPENDIX C. REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

THAT THE MANUFACTURER MUST SUPPLY

This section summarizes that information which the manufacturer

must supply to the purchaser at the time of bid submission.

(Sections below Correspond to Numbered Headings in section 2.)

Scope (2.2.) If an impermeable shell coat is purchased, information on the following must be supplied; in addition to other information as specified:

1. Brittleness at low temperature,

2. Coating thickness, and

3. Coating adhesion

General (2.3.) Items of equal performance and safety should be allowed

as substitutes for those specified in the report provided that adequate

technical evidence of their acceptability is supplied the purchaser and

provided that the substitute is approved by a technically qualified representative of the purchaser (when applicable) , the senior officer of the

Fire Department, and by the purchasing agent.

Outer Shell Material (2.3.3.1.)

1. Some supporting evidence or a guarantee of the durability of the

coats must be provided.

2. An indication of the satisfactory high temperature stability of

the fabric must be provided. This shall include temperature/

shrinkage curves and an indication of the temperature at which

the fabric will char, separate and melt, with all results showing

the effects of temperature exposures in a forced air oven for

10 minutes.

3. The manufacturer must supply an indication of the resistance of

the fabric to corrosive substances.

Storm Flaps and Closures and Fastener Tape (2.3.3.7. and 2.3.8. ) When

hook and dee rings are not used as part of the closure for the storm flap,

the manufacturer should demonstrate the ability of the closure to provide

an acceptable closure when flexed and strained as in use. Whenever hook

and pile fastener tape is used, the manufacturer must supply information

on the flame-resistance and high temperature stability of the tape to

include an indication of the temperature at which the fabric will char,

melt or shrink, with all results showing the effects of temperature

exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

Lining Material (2.3.4.1.) The manufacturer must supply information on the high temperature stability of the fabric prior to purchase, to include

temperature shrinkage curves, and an indication of the temperature at which

the fabric will char, separate and melt, with all results showing the

effects of temperature exposures in a forced air oven for 10 minutes.

29
Thickness (2.3.5.2.) The manufacturer shall supply information on the

thickness of the coat prior to sale.

Fastener Tape (2.3.8.) The manufacturer must supply information to the

purchaser, prior to sale, on the high temperature stability of the fabric,

to include an indication of the temperature at which the fabric will char,

melt, or shrink.

Retro-reflective Fabric (2.3.9.) The manufacturer must supply information

on the flammability of the material prior to sale, and information on the

high temperature stability of the fabric, to include temperature shrinkage

curves and an indication of the temperature at which the fabric will char

or melt.

30
APPENDIX D. SAMPLE PURCHASE SPECIFICATION

This report describes features and performance measures that an acceptable turnout coat should contain and meet. However, there are a number of

features that are left for local option. These items should be described

in a purchase specification. Appendix B describes and discusses these

options. In this section, we provide a portion of a sample purchase specification. Its purpose is to help clarify what type of information should

be in that part of the purchase specification that further defines the

desired coat. Specific requirements given in this section are given for

example only. Trade names are omitted and a solid line is provided instead.

1] All cocLti 6uppLi2.d -In findpoYUtZ to the. btd 6 kail rmeX all O)^ thz

n.2.qaAJimzYit^ ol thz. n.Q,pont: tLtlnd "Va^tgn CnJXoAJja. (^on. VAjLH^^lQhtoAA^

TuAnout CocuU). Tha. btd may Include IzatuAU ^e^qiJuAzd on. poAmtttud by

publyUihed am2.ndm<int6 to tho. cAAt:eAA.a.

2) T/iX4 btd -U {^on. 20 yeZlotAj coat6 6tztd to {^tt a 3S-tnc,h chut, and

25 to {^tt a 41-A.nch choAt. All c.oati> axu to be custom tatloKo^d ^oK

tho, ch2At dimdn^toM tndlcatdd and the £oltowtng 4£.eeue Izngtki:

Each coat m{xi>t be tddntllttd {^OK. chz^t and 4£eeve mzoMxA-mcnt.

Uott: Chiiiit m<La^uJim<LntA) made up undeA tho. a/m6, acn.o^i, thd

^hoixldoA blades 0^ the tndtvtdual wtth ku, nonmaZ station imi^^oKm on. Back length dttoAmlned {^fiom the coltaA ba^e to the coat botton, ileeve

length meoMxAed {^n.om the center 0^ the back oJiound a bent elbow to the

tJjp ol the 6leeve, wtth the hand held tn a honJ^zontat plane In {^Aont o^

the iace. The length o^ alt coatA> i^haZl be 40 Inches.

3) The oaten, ihell ihalZ be made o{^ . and the tnnen Itnen^ ihalt be made 0^ .

4) TheAe i>hall be ttoo Linens, one contoyinlng the vapon. ba/i/vien. and

one ^on, tni>uilatA,on {^n.om the heat oi the Itne. The ijatZoA 6haLt be

the tnnenmo6t Itnen.

5) The 6ton,m ^lap iihaZl have hooki> and dee6 on the ouuUtde and hook

and piZe ^a^tene/i tape on the In^tde. The llrnnmabtHty o^ the tnJjn

may dJ^Hen, £n.om that n.equAAed tn the n.e{,enenced de^tgn cnJJienyia tn

that tt may be 5.0 tnchei> choA. length [max.] and 5.0 6econd{> a^ten,

{^lame [max. ]

3S-tnch chut 41 -Inch chut

ten 32-tnch 6leeve^

ten 54-tnch ileevu

twelve 32-tnch i^leevu

thJjvteen 34-tnch -ileeve^

31
6] Tkd pockoX^ i>halZ be cLi> ^olZomt Two pocJuzt^, 11 Inchu wide, by

12 Inakdi) klgh, ptacud at tkd km ol tkz coat.

7] Tkz n.(itAo-K<L{^l(i(itA.v(L tape ^kalt bd ai> {^ollom: Alt tape 6kalZ be. 3-tn(ikQJ> w^de poi>itA,OYiQ,d a^ loZtom:

: A. Bacfe:

Ttoo IS-tnck v<LnXt(LaZ. ^t/itpoA

- -

' , TtA)o IS-tnak kontzontaZ i>thJjpQA>

k 'S

' [OvuUtdd m2,a^uJim<LYvti) IS tnakzA by 21 tnckej)]

B. V^ont:

Onz 30-^nck voAttcat 6tAtpz

Two n-lvLck veAtlaat itiAo. 6VilpQ^

[S<ipcuiatioYii> b(itwQ.m veAttcat 6t/U.pej> appn.oxAMateJiy 3 ZnckzyS]

C. CyULCum^eAdncQ, band on a.acik ^^eeue jiu^t above cu^Jj^ Itm

V. CAji(nm{^<in.e.nc2. band oAoand bottom o{^ coat

E. SkouJLdoA patck {mtntmum 3-'inckQJ> iquoAe.]

Elmenti) tkat can be added ^on. mouc tnionmatton on coat; V.V. ejnblm,

F.P. name, ^AA.e{,tgkt2A' 6 name, company name and/on. number, job specialty

symbol.

B) Tke MatefL Ae6Aj>tance o^ tke coat ^kalt be at leajit 90 peAcent

token tei>ted tn accon^dance Mitk metkod 5526 o(^ fed. 191.

Note: Thorough consideration should be given to the design con- siderations mentioned throughout the report and in appendix A when preparing specifications or evaluating bids. If practicable, provisions should

be made with supplier that he make available the materials necessary to

repair coats that become damaged.

APPENDIX E. REFERENCES

The following publications are referenced in this report and may be

obtained from the organizations indicated. Later issues of all publications

referenced shall be used provided the requirements are applicable and con- sistent with the issue designated.

[1] Textile Test Methods, Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, General

Services Administration, Specifications Activity, Printed Materials

Supply Division, Building 197, Naval Weapons Plant, Washington, D.C.

20407.

[2] Automatice Fabrics, Testing, ASTM Method D 2263-68, American Society

for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19103.

32
[3] Dimensional Changes in Laundering of Woven and Knitted Textiles

Except Wool, AATCC Method 96, American Association of Textile

Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park,

North Carolina 27709.

[4] Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, Division of Public Records,

Federal Trade Commission, Washington, D.C. 20580.

[5] Standard Method of Test for Seam Breaking Strength (Load) of Woven

Textile Fabrics, ASTM Method D 1683-68, American Society for Testing

and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

[6] Standard Method of Specifying Color by the Munsell System, ASTM

Method D 1535-68, American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916

Race Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

[7] Standard Recommended Practice for Spectrophotmetry and Description

of Color in CIE 1931 System, ASTM Method E 308-66, American Society

for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

[8] Thickness of Textile Materials, Measuring, ASTM Method D 1777-64 (70),

American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street,

Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

[9] Leather, Cattlehide, Chrome Tanned for Gloves, Garments and Equipment, Federal Specification KK-L-162, General Services Administration,

Specification Activity, Printed Materials Supply Division, Bldg 197,

Naval Weapons Plant, Washington, D.C. 20407.

[10] Leather, Methods of Sampling and Testing, Federal Test Method

Standard No. 311, General Services Administration, Specifications

Activity, Printed Materials Supply Division, Bldg 197, Naval Weapons

Plant, Washington, D.C. 20407.

[11] Rivet, Solid, Small; Rivet, Split, Small; Rivet, Tubular, Small;

Bur, and Cups, Rivet; General Purpose, Federal Specification

FF-R-556C, General Services Administration, Specifications Activity,

Printed Materials Supply Division, Bldg. 197, Naval Weapons Plant,

Washington, D.C. 20407.

[12] Fasteners, Snaps, Military Specification MIL-F-10884D, The Naval

Publications and Forms Center, 5801 Tabor Avenue, Philadelphia,

Pa. 19120.

[13] Fastener Tapes, Hook and Pile, Synthetic, Military Specification

MIL-F-21840D, The Naval Publications and Forms Center, 5801 Tabor

Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. 19120.

33
NBS-n4A (REV. 7-73)

U.S. DEPT. OF COMM.

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA

SHEET

1. PUIU. [CATION OR REI^ORT NO.

NBSIR 75-702

2. Gov't Accession

No.

3. Recipient's Accession No.

4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE

Design Criteria tor rireiigncers iurnouu L^oats

5. Publication Date October 1975

6. Performing Organization Code

7. AUTHOR(S)

J. W. Elsele

8. Performing Organ. Report No.

9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20234

10. Project/Task/Work Unit No. 490 0370

11. Contract/Grant No.

12. Sponsoring Organization Name and Complete Address (Street, City, State, ZIP)

Same as No. 9.

13. Type of Report & Period Covered

Final

14. Sponsoring Agency Code

15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

16. ABSTRACT (A 200-word or less factual summary of most sigriificant information. If document includes a significant

bibliography or literature survey, mention it here.)

These design criteria cover requirements for the sizing, construction,

'outer shell, inner linings, weight and thickness for firefighters'

turnout coats as well as test methods, labeling requirements and design

considerations. Included also is a list of options and other items of

concern to potential users of the criteria and a sample purchase specification to be used in conjunction with the criteria.

•

17. KEY WORDS (six to twelve entries; alphabetical order; capitalize only the first letter of the first key word unless a proper name; separated by semicolons

)

Firefighters; firefighters' turnout coats; protective clothing.

19. SECURITY CLASS

(THIS REPORT)

UNCL ASSIFIED

21. NO. OF PAGES

37

20. SECURITY CLASS

(THIS PAGE)

UNCLASSIFIED

22. Price

$3.75

18. AVAILABILITY U nlimited

I For Official Distribution. Do Not Release to NTIS

I

' Order From Sup. of Doc, U.S. Government Printing Office Washington, D.C. 20402, SD Cat. No. CL3

[X] Ord er From National Technical Information Service (NTIS)

Springfield, Virginia 22151

USCON/IM-DC 29042-P74