Commission Directive 2008/47/EC of 8 April 2008 amending, for the purposes of adapting to technical progress, Council Directive 75/324/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to aerosol dispensers (Text with EEA relevance)
Date: 2008-04-08
Institutions: European Commission
Subjects: aerosol, approximation of laws, health risk, inflammable product, product safety, technological change

9.4.2008

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Official Journal of the European Union

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DIRECTIVES

COMMISSION DIRECTIVE 2008/47/EC

of 8 April 2008

amending, for the purposes of adapting to technical progress, Council Directive 75/324/EEC on the
approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to aerosol dispensers

(Text with EEA relevance)

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

(3)

Having regard to the Treaty
Community,

establishing the European

Having regard to Council Directive 75/324/EEC of 20 May
1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States
relating to aerosol dispensers (1), and in particular Articles 5 and
10(3) thereof,

(4)

Whereas:

(1)

different

from the

Technical progress and innovation have made possible
the placing on the market of an increasing number of
aerosol dispensers with a complex technical design and
characteristics
traditional ones.
the provisions of Directive 75/324/EEC are
However,
not sufficient
to guarantee a high level of safety for
such non-traditional aerosol dispensers. The individual
design of non-traditional aerosols may create safety
hazards that are not addressed by the safety provisions
of the Directive, which are adapted to the known design
of traditional aerosols. Therefore, a hazard analysis is
in
necessary to be performed by the manufacturer
order to cover all safety aspects adequately.

(2) Where appropriate the hazard analysis must address the
risk resulting from the inhalation of the spray ejected by
the aerosol dispenser under normal or reasonably fore-
seeable conditions of use, taking into account droplet
size and size distribution in conjunction with physical
and chemical properties of the contents, as the inhalation
of small aerosol droplets may give rise to adverse health
effects for the user under such conditions of use, even if
the aerosol dispenser is properly classified and labelled
according to the provisions of Directive 1999/45/EC of
the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May
1999 concerning the approximation of the laws, regu-
lations and administrative provisions of
the Member
States
classification, packaging and
labelling of dangerous preparations (2).

relating to the

(5)

(6)

in Article 10 of
The safeguard clause provided for
Directive 75/324/EEC has been applied by one Member
State. The safeguard measure adopted is justified in view
flammability raised, under normal or
of
reasonably
the
substances contained in the aerosol dispenser.

conditions of use, by

the risk of

foreseeable

of

laws,

flammable contents is not
The current definition of
to guarantee a high level of safety in all
sufficient
cases.
In particular, although some contents dispersed
by aerosol dispensers are not defined as ‘flammable’
according to the criteria listed in Annex VI to Council
Directive 67/548/EEC of 27 June 1967 on the approx-
imation
administrative
regulations
provisions relating to the classification, packaging and
labelling of dangerous substances (3), they may lead to
foreseeable
or
ignition
conditions of use of the aerosol dispenser. Furthermore,
the
address
chemical substances and preparations and do not take
properly into account special physical conditions of an
aerosol spray or specific conditions of use.

flammability only

reasonably

normal

current

criteria

under

and

for

level of safety and
In order to achieve the optimal
considering the specificities of aerosol dispensers,
the
new criteria for the classification of the flammability of
aerosol dispensers
the hazards
the contents of aerosol
relating to the dispersion of
the
dispensers and the specific conditions of use of
aerosol dispensers rather than only the physical and
chemical properties of the contents themselves.

should also address

and burst

The provisions of Directive 75/324/EEC currently in
force require that each filled aerosol dispenser be
immersed in a bath of hot water in order to assess its
resistance. However, heat
leak tightness
sensitive aerosol dispensers cannot withstand this test.
Technological progress has made possible alternative
test methods
aerosol
final
dispensers for burst resistance and leak tightness, which
guarantee the same level of safety.

assessment of

the

for

(1) OJ L 147, 9.6.1975, p. 40. Directive as last amended by Regulation

(EC) No 807/2003 (OJ L 122, 16.5.2003, p. 36).

(2) OJ L 200, 30.7.1999, p. 1. Directive as last amended by Regulation
(EC) No 1907/2006 (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1; corrected by OJ
L 136, 29.5.2007, p. 3).

(3) OJ 196, 16.8.1967, p. 1. Directive as last amended by Directive
2006/121/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ
L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 850, corrected by OJ L 136, 29.5.2007,
p. 281).

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HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE:

Article 1

Directive 75/324/EEC is amended as set out in the Annex to
this Directive.

Article 2

laws,

1. Member States shall adopt and publish by 29 October
2009 the
regulations and administrative provisions
necessary to comply with this Directive. They shall forthwith
communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions
and a correlation table between those provisions and this
Directive.

Member States shall apply those provisions as from 29 April
2010.

When Member States adopt those provisions, they shall contain
a reference to this Directive or be accompanied by such a
reference on the occasion of their official publication. Member
States shall determine how such a reference is to be made.

2. Member States shall communicate to the Commission the
texts of the main provisions of national law which they adopt
in the field covered by this Directive.

Article 3

This Directive shall enter into force on the 20th day following
its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

This Directive is addressed to the Member States.

Article 4

Done at Brussels, 8 April 2008.

For the Commission

Günter VERHEUGEN
Vice-President

(7)

(8)

(9)

The provisions of Directive 75/324/EEC currently in
force provide for the possibility to use a test system
enabling a result equivalent to that of the water bath
the Committee
method, subject
to the agreement of
this procedure
referred to in Article 6. However,
appears to be extremely heavy to be implemented in
and therefore,
practice,
it has never been used.
in order to enable economic operators to
Therefore,
benefit
from technological progress without compro-
mising the current level of safety by guaranteeing the
it is necessary that the
appropriate technical expertise,
alternative test methods are approved,
the
Committee referred to in Article 6 of the Directive, by
the relevant competent authorities designated by Member
of
States
21 November 1994 on the approximation of the laws
of the Member States with regard to the transport of
dangerous goods by road (1).

instead of

94/55/EC

Directive

Council

under

Safety concerns have been raised following the burst and
leak of metal
aerosol dispensers heated to high
temperatures, as is the case in cars exposed to solar
the
radiation.
maximum filling level to the same value for all types
of aerosol dispensers.

therefore necessary

to limit

is

It

environmentally

Most
and non-flammable
friendly
propellants are compressed gases. However, the loss of
pressure of aerosol dispensers using compressed gas
propellants at the end of their life-time typically leads
to a less efficient yield of contents. Consequently, the
use of compressed gases as propellants
should be
encouraged
the maximum internal
pressure of aerosol dispensers, to the extent that it is
safe for the consumer.

increasing

by

(10) Directive 75/324/EEC should therefore be amended

accordingly.

(11)

The measures provided for
in this Directive are in
accordance with the opinion of the Committee on the
the Directive on
adaptation to Technical Progress of
aerosol dispensers,

(1) OJ L 319, 12.12.1994, p. 7. Directive as

last amended by

Commission Directive 2006/89/EC (OJ L 305, 4.11.2006, p. 4).

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ANNEX

Directive 75/324/EEC is hereby amended as follows:

(1) in Article 8 the following paragraph 1a is added:

‘1a. Where an aerosol dispenser contains flammable components as defined in point 1.8 of the Annex but the
aerosol dispenser is not considered as “flammable” or “extremely flammable” according to the criteria set out in point
1.9 of the Annex, the quantity of flammable material contained in the aerosol dispenser must be stated clearly on the
label, in the form of the following legible and indelible wording: “X % by mass of the contents are flammable”.’;

(2) Article 9a is repealed;

(3) the Annex is amended as follows:

(a) point 1.8. is replaced by the following:

‘1.8. Flammable contents

Contents of aerosols shall be considered as flammable if they contain any component which is classified as
flammable:

(a)

flammable liquid means a liquid having a flashpoint of not more than 93 °C.

(b) flammable solid means a solid substance or mixture which is readily combustible, or may cause or
contribute to fire as a result of friction. Readily combustible solids are powdered, granular, or pasty
substances or mixtures which are dangerous if they can be easily ignited by brief contact with an
ignition source, such as a burning match, and if the flame spreads rapidly.

(c)

flammable gas means a gas or gas mixture having a flammable range with air at 20 °C and a standard
pressure of 1,013 bar.

This definition does not cover pyrophoric, self-heating or water-reactive substances and mixtures, which
shall never be components of aerosol contents.’;

(b) the following point 1.9. is inserted:

‘1.9.

Flammable aerosols
For the purpose of this Directive, an aerosol is considered as “non-flammable”, “flammable” or “extremely
flammable” according to its chemical heat of combustion and mass content of flammable components, as
follows:

(a) The aerosol is classified as “extremely flammable” if it contains 85 % or more flammable components

and the chemical heat of combustion exceeds or is equal to 30 kJ/g;

(b) The aerosol is classified as “non-flammable” if it contains 1 % or less flammable components and the

chemical heat of combustion is less than 20 kJ/g.

(c) All other aerosols will be submitted to the following flammability classification procedures or shall be
classified as “extremely flammable”. The ignition distance test, the enclosed space test and the foam
flammability test shall comply with point 6.3.

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1.9.1. Flammable spray aerosols

In the case of spray aerosols the classification shall be made taking into account the chemical heat of
combustion and on the basis of the results of the ignition distance test, as follows:

(a)

If the chemical heat of combustion is less than 20 kJ/g:

(i) The aerosol is classified as “flammable” if ignition occurs at a distance equal or greater than 15 cm

but less than 75 cm;

(ii) The aerosol is classified as “extremely flammable” if ignition occurs at a distance of 75 cm or

more;

(iii) If no ignition occurs in the ignition distance test, the enclosed space test shall be performed and in
this case, the aerosol is classified as “flammable” if the time equivalent is less than or equal to
300 s/m3 or the deflagration density is less than or equal to 300 g/m3; otherwise the aerosol is
classified as “non-flammable”;

(b) If the chemical heat of combustion is equal to or more than 20 kJ/g, the aerosol

is classified as
“extremely flammable” if ignition occurs at a distance of 75 cm or more; otherwise the aerosol is
classified as “flammable”.

1.9.2. Flammable foam aerosols

In the case of foam aerosols, the classification shall be made on the basis of the results of the foam
flammability test.

(a) The aerosol product shall be classified as “extremely flammable” if:

(i) the flame height is 20 cm or more and the flame duration is two seconds or more;

or

(ii) the flame height is 4 cm or more and the flame duration is seven seconds or more.

(b) The aerosol product which does not meet the criteria in (a) is classified as “flammable” if the flame

height is 4 cm or more and the flame duration is two seconds or more.’;

(c)

the following point 1.10. is inserted:

‘1.10. Chemical Heat of Combustion

The chemical heat of combustion ΔHc shall be either determined by:

(a) acknowledged rules of technology, described e.g. in standards such as ASTM D 240, ISO 13943 86.1

to 86.3 and NFPA 30B, or found in the scientifically established literature;

or

(b) applying the following calculation method:

The chemical heat of combustion (ΔHc), in kilojoules per gram (kJ/g), can be calculated as the product of
the theoretical heat of combustion (ΔHcomb), and a combustion efficiency, usually less than 1,0 (a typical
combustion efficiency is 0,95 or 95 %).

For a composite aerosol formulation, the chemical heat of combustion is the summation of the weighted
heats of combustion for the individual components, as follows:

ΔHc ¼

h
wi% (cid:1) ΔHcðiÞ

i

Xn

i

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where:

ΔHc

=

chemical heat of combustion (kJ/g) of the product;

wi% = mass fraction of component i in the product;

ΔHc(i) =

specific heat of combustion (kJ/g) of component i in the product.

The person responsible for the marketing of the aerosol dispenser has to describe the method used for
determining the chemical heat of combustion in a document to be made readily available in an official
Community language at the address specified on the label in accordance with point (a) of Article 8(1), if
the chemical heat of combustion is used as a parameter for assessing the flammability of aerosols
according to the provisions of this Directive.’

(d) The following provision is inserted after point 2. ‘General provisions’ and before point 2.1.

‘Without prejudice to specific provisions of the Annex on requirements related to the flammability and pressure
hazard, the person responsible for the marketing of aerosol dispensers is under an obligation to analyse the
hazards in order to identify those which apply to his aerosol dispensers. Where appropriate, this analysis shall
include a consideration of the risks resulting from the inhalation of the spray ejected by the aerosol dispenser
under normal and reasonably foreseeable conditions of use, taking into account droplet size distribution in
conjunction with physical and chemical properties of the contents. He must then design, construct and test it
and, if applicable, draft special statements concerning its use, taking account of his analysis.’

(e) Point 2.2(b) is replaced by the following:

‘(b) Where the aerosol is classified as “flammable” or “extremely flammable” according to the criteria of point 1.9:

— the flame symbol, in accordance with the model in Annex II to Directive 67/548/EEC;

— the indication “flammable” or “extremely flammable”, depending on the classification of the aerosol as

“flammable” or “extremely flammable”.’;

(f) points 2.3(a) and 2.3(b) are replaced by the following:

‘(a) Whatever its contents, any additional operating precautions which alert consumers to the specific dangers of
the product; if the aerosol dispenser is accompanied by separate instructions for use, the latter must also
reflect such operating precautions;

(b) Where the aerosol is classified as “flammable” or “extremely flammable” according to the criteria of point 1.9,

the following warnings:

— the safety phrases S2 and S16 laid down in Annex IV to Directive 67/548/EEC;

— “Do not spray on a naked flame or any incandescent material”.’;

(g) the following point 2.4. is inserted:

‘2.4. Volume of the liquid phase

The volume of the liquid phase at 50 °C must not exceed 90 % of the net capacity.’

(h) Point 3.1.2. is replaced by the following:

‘3.1.2. Filling

At 50 °C, the pressure in the aerosol dispenser must not exceed 12 bar.

However, if the aerosol does not contain a gas or mixture of gases having a flammable range with air at
20 °C and a standard pressure of 1,013 bar, the maximum allowable pressure at 50 °C is 13,2 bar.’

(i) points 3.1.3., 4.1.5. and 4.2.4. are deleted.

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(j) point 6.1.4. is replaced by the following:

‘6.1.4.

Final inspection of filled aerosol dispensers

6.1.4.1. Aerosol dispensers shall be subject to one of the following final test methods.

(a) Hot water bath test

Each filled aerosol dispenser shall be immersed in a hot water bath.

(i) The temperature of the water bath and the duration of the test shall be such that the internal
pressure reaches that which would be exerted by its contents at a uniform temperature of 50 °C.

(ii) Any aerosol dispenser showing visible permanent distortion or a leak must be rejected.

(b) Hot final test methods

Other methods for heating the contents of aerosol dispensers may be used if they guarantee that the
pressure and temperature in each filled aerosol dispenser reach the values required for the hot water
bath test and distortions and leaks are detected with same precision as in the case of the hot water
bath test.

(c) Cold final test methods

An alternative cold final test method may be used if it is in accordance with the provisions of an
alternative method to the hot water bath test for aerosol dispensers specified in point 6.2.4.3.2.2 of
Annex A to Directive 94/55/EC.

6.1.4.2. For aerosol dispensers the contents of which undergo a physical or chemical transformation changing
their pressure characteristics after filling and before first use, cold final test methods according to point
6.1.4.1(c) should be applied.

6.1.4.3.

In case of test methods according to points 6.1.4.1(b) and 6.1.4.1(c):

(a) The test method must be approved by a competent authority.

(b) The person responsible for the marketing of aerosol dispensers must submit an application for
approval to a competent authority. The application must be accompanied by the technical file
describing the method.

(c) The person responsible for the marketing of aerosol dispensers must, for surveillance purposes, keep
the approval of the competent authority, the technical file describing the method and, if applicable,
control reports readily available at the address specified on the label in accordance with point (a) of
Article 8(1).

(d) The technical file must be established in an official Community language or a certified copy thereof

must be available.

(e) “competent authority” means the authority designated in each Member State under Directive

94/55/EC.’;

(k) The following point 6.3. is inserted:

‘6.3.

6.3.1.

Tests on the flammability of aerosols

Ignition distance test for spray aerosols

6.3.1.1.

Introduction

6.3.1.1.1.

This test standard describes the method to determine the ignition distance of an aerosol spray in
order to assess the associated flame risk. The aerosol is sprayed in the direction of an ignition source
at intervals of 15 cm to observe if ignition and sustained combustion of the spray takes place.
Ignition and sustained combustion is defined as when a stable flame is maintained for at least five
seconds. The ignition source is defined as a gas burner with a blue, non-luminous flame 4-5 cm in
height.

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6.3.1.1.2.

This test is applicable to aerosol products with a spray distance of 15 cm or more. Aerosol products
with a spray distance of less than 15 cm such as dispensing foams, mousses, gels and pastes or fitted
with a metering valve, are excluded from this test. Aerosol products that dispense foams, mousses,
gels or pastes are subject to testing under the aerosol foam flammability test.

6.3.1.2.

Apparatus and material

6.3.1.2.1.

The following apparatus is required:

Water bath maintained at 20 °C

Calibrated laboratory scales (balance)

Chronometer (stopwatch)

Graduated scale, support and clamp

Gas burner with support and clamp

Thermometer

Hygrometer

Pressure gauge

6.3.1.3.

Procedure

6.3.1.3.1.

General requirements

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 0,1 g

accurate to ± 0,2 s

graduations in cm

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 5 %

accurate to ± 0,1 bar

6.3.1.3.1.1. Before testing, each aerosol dispenser shall be conditioned and then primed by discharging for
approximately one second. The purpose of this action is to remove non-homogeneous material
from the diptube.

6.3.1.3.1.2. The instructions of use shall be strictly followed, including whether the dispenser is intended to be
used in the upright or inverted position. When shaking is required, shake immediately before testing.

6.3.1.3.1.3. The test shall be carried out

in a draught-free environment capable of ventilation, with the

temperature controlled at 20 °C ± 5 °C and relative humidity in the range 30-80 %.

6.3.1.3.1.4. Each aerosol dispenser is to be tested:

(a) when full according to the complete procedure, with the gas burner in the range of 15-90 cm

distance from the actuator of the aerosol can;

(b) when 10-12 % full nominal (% by mass) only one test, either at 15 cm distance from the
the flame ignition

ignite at all, or at

actuator when the spray from a full can did not
distance of the spray of a full can plus 15 cm.

6.3.1.3.1.5. During the test, the can shall be positioned as indicated by label instructions. The ignition source

shall be positioned accordingly.

6.3.1.3.1.6. The following procedure requires testing the spray at intervals of 15 cm between the burner flame
and the aerosol actuator, in the range of 15-90 cm. It is efficient to start at 60 cm distance between
burner flame and aerosol actuator. The distance between burner flame and aerosol actuator shall be
increased by 15 cm in the case of an ignition of the spray at 60 cm distance. The distance shall be
decreased by 15 cm in the case of no ignition at 60 cm distance between burner flame and aerosol
actuator. The aim of the procedure is to determine the maximum distance between aerosol actuator
and burner flame that leads to sustained combustion of the spray or to determine that ignition could
not be obtained at 15 cm distance between the burner flame and the aerosol's actuator.

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6.3.1.3.2.

Test procedure

(a) A minimum of 3 full aerosol dispensers per product shall be conditioned to 20 °C ± 1 °C with
at least 95 % of the dispenser immersed in the water for at least 30 min before each test (if the
aerosol is fully immersed, 30 min conditioning is sufficient);

(b) Comply with general requirements. Record the temperature and relative humidity of

the

environment;

(c) Weigh an aerosol dispenser and note its mass;

(d) Determine the internal pressure and initial discharge rate at 20 °C ± 1 °C (to eliminate faulty or

partly filled aerosol dispensers);

(e) Support the gas burner on a flat horizontal surface or fix the burner to a support by means of a

clamp;

(f)

Ignite the gas burner; the flame shall be non-luminous and approximately 4-5 cm high;

(g) Place the actuator's exit orifice at the required distance from the flame. The aerosol shall be

tested in the position it is designed to be used, e.g. upright or inverted;

(h) Level the actuator's orifice and burner flame, ensuring that the orifice is properly directed
towards and aligned with the flame (see Figure 6.3.1.1). The spray shall be expelled through
the top half of the flame;

Figure 6.3.1.1

(i) Comply with the general requirements regarding shaking of the dispenser;

(j) Actuate the valve of the aerosol dispenser, to discharge its contents for five seconds, unless
ignition occurs. If ignition occurs, continue discharging and time the duration of the flame for
five seconds, from the start of ignition;

(k) Note the ignition results for the distance between the gas burner and the aerosol dispenser in

the table provided;

(l)

If no ignition occurs during step (j), the aerosol shall be tested in alternative orientations, e.g.
inverted for upright use products, to check if ignition is obtained;

(m) Repeat steps (g) to (l) twice more (a total of 3) for the same can at the same distance between

the gas burner and the aerosol actuator;

(n) Repeat the test procedure for another two aerosol cans of the same product at the same

distance between gas burner and aerosol actuator;

(o) Repeat steps (g) to (n) of the test procedure at a distance between 15 and 90 cm between the
actuator of the aerosol can and the burner flame depending on the outcome of each test (see
also 6.3.1.3.1.4 and 6.3.1.3.1.5);

(p)

If no ignition occurs at 15 cm, the procedure is finished for initially full cans. The procedure is
also finished when ignition and sustained combustion is obtained at a distance of 90 cm. If
ignition could not be obtained at 15 cm distance, record that ignition did not occur. The
maximum distance between burner flame and the aerosol's actuator for which an ignition and
sustained combustion was observed is noted as
in all other
circumstances;

the “ignition distance”,

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(q) One test shall also be conducted on three cans of 10-12 % nominal fill level. These cans shall be
tested at a distance between the aerosol's actuator and the burner flame of the ‘flame ignition
distance of full cans + 15 cm’;

(r) Discharge an aerosol can to a 10-12 % nominal fill level (by mass) in bursts of 30 seconds
maximum. Observe a 300 seconds minimum time period between bursts. During this interim
period dispensers shall be placed in the water bath for conditioning;

(s) Repeat steps (g) to (n) for 10-12 % nominal fill aerosol cans, omitting steps (l) and (m). This test
shall only be performed with the aerosol in one position, e.g. upright or inverted, corresponding
with that which produced the ignition (if any) for filled cans;

(t) Record all results in the Table 6.3.1.1 as shown below.

6.3.1.3.2.1. All experiments shall be performed in a fume hood in a room that may be well ventilated.
Ventilation of the fume hood and room can be applied for at least three minutes after each test.
Take all necessary safety precautions to prevent the inhalation of combustion products.

6.3.1.3.2.2. The cans with a 10-12 % nominal fill level shall be tested only once. The result tables need only one

result per can indicated.

6.3.1.3.2.3. When the test in the position in which the dispenser is designed to be used gives a negative result,
the test shall be repeated in the position of the dispenser most likely to result in a positive result.

6.3.1.4.

6.3.1.4.1.

Method of assessing results
All the results shall be recorded. Table 6.3.1.1 below shows the model of ‘result table’ to be used.

Date

Name of product

Net volume

Initial level of
filling

Table 6.3.1.1

Temperature … °C
Relative humidity … %

Can 1

%

Can 2

%

Can 3

%

Dispenser distance Test

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

Ignition?
Y or N

Ignition?
Y or N

Ignition?
Y or N

Ignition?
Y or N

Ignition?
Y or N

Ignition?
Y or N

15 cm

30 cm

45 cm

60 cm

75 cm

90 cm

Observations —
including can
position

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6.3.2.

Enclosed space ignition test

6.3.2.1.

Introduction

This test standard describes the method to assess the flammability of products emerging from
aerosol dispensers due to their propensity to ignite in an enclosed or confined space. The
contents of an aerosol dispenser are sprayed into a cylindrical test vessel containing a burning
candle. If an observable ignition occurs, the elapsed time and amount discharged is noted.

6.3.2.2.

Apparatus and material

6.3.2.2.1.

The following apparatus is required:

Chronometer (stopwatch)

Water bath maintained at 20 °C

Calibrated laboratory scales (balance)

Thermometer

Hygrometer

Pressure gauge

Cylindrical test vessel

accurate to ± 0,2 s

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 0,1 g

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 5 %

accurate to ± 0,1 bar

as detailed below

6.3.2.2.2.

Preparation of test apparatus

6.3.2.2.2.1. A cylindrical vessel approximately 200 dm3 volume, approximately 600 mm in diameter and

approximately 720 mm long and open at one end shall be modified as follows:

(a) A closure system consisting of a hinged cover shall be matched to the open end of the

receptacle; or

(b) A plastic film 0,01 to 0,02 mm thick may be used as a closure system. If the test is carried out
with a plastic film this must be used as described below: Stretch the film over the open end of
the drum and hold it in place with an elastic band. The strength of the band shall be such that
when placed around the drum resting on its side, it stretches by only 25 mm when a mass of
0,45 kg is attached to its lowest point. Cut a 25 mm slit in the film, starting 50 mm from the
edge of the drum. Ensure that the film is taut;

(c) At the other end of the drum drill a 50 mm diameter hole 100 mm from the edge in such a
way that the orifice is uppermost when the receptacle is laid down and ready for the test (Figure
6.3.2.1.)

Figure 6.3.2.1

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(d) On a 200 × 200 mm metal support place a paraffin wax candle 20 to 40 mm in diameter and
100 mm high. The candle shall be replaced when having a height of less than 80 mm. The
candle's flame is protected from the action of the spray by a 150 mm wide, 200 mm high
deflector. This includes the plane inclined at 45° produced 150 mm from the base of the
deflector (Figure 6.3.2.2.);

Figure 6.3.2.2

(e) The candle placed on the metal support shall be positioned midway between the two ends of the

drum (Figure 6.3.2.3);

Figure 6.3.2.3

(f) The drum is laid on the ground or on a support at a spot where the temperature is between
15 °C and 25 °C. The product to be tested will be sprayed within the drum of roughly 200 dm3
in which there will be a source of ignition.

6.3.2.2.2.2. Usually, the product leaves the aerosol can at an angle of 90° relevant to the vertical axis of the can.
The layout and procedure described refers to this kind of aerosol product. In the case of unusually
operating aerosols (e.g. vertical-spray aerosol dispensers) it will be necessary to record changes to
equipment and procedures
ISO/IEC
17025:1999 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.

in accordance with good laboratory practice,

such as

6.3.2.3.

Procedure

6.3.2.3.1.

General requirements

6.3.2.3.1.1. Before testing, each aerosol dispenser shall be conditioned and then primed by discharging for
approximately 1 second. The purpose of this action is to remove non-homogeneous material
from the diptube.

6.3.2.3.1.2. The instructions of use shall be strictly followed, including whether the dispenser is intended to be
used in the upright or inverted position. When shaking is required, shake immediately before testing.

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6.3.2.3.1.3. The tests shall be carried out in a draught-free environment capable of ventilation, with the
temperature controlled at 20 °C ± 5 °C and relative humidity in the range 30-80 %.

6.3.2.3.2.

Test procedure

(a) A minimum of 3 full aerosol dispensers per product shall be conditioned to 20 °C ± 1 °C in a
water bath with at least 95 % of the dispenser immersed in the water for at least 30 min (if the
aerosol is fully immersed, 30 min conditioning is sufficient);

(b) Measure or calculate the actual volume of the drum in dm3;

(c) Comply with general requirements. Record the temperature and relative humidity of

the

environment;

(d) Determine the internal pressure and initial discharge rate at 20 °C ± 1 °C (to eliminate faulty or

partly filled aerosol dispensers);

(e) Weigh one of the aerosol dispensers and note its mass;

(f) Light the candle and apply the closure system (cover or plastic film);

(g) Place the aerosol dispenser actuator orifice 35 mm or closer for a wide spray product, from the
centre of the entrance hole in the drum. Start the chronometer (stopwatch) and following the
instructions for use of the product; direct the spray towards the centre of the opposite extremity
(cover or plastic film). The aerosol shall be tested in the position it is designed to be used, e.g.
upright or inverted;

(h) Spray until

ignition occurs. Stop the chronometer and note the time elapsed. Re-weigh the

aerosol dispenser and note its mass;

(i) Ventilate and clean the drum removing any residue likely to affect subsequent tests. Allow the

drum to cool if necessary;

(j) Repeat the test procedure steps (d) to (i) for another two aerosol dispensers of the same product

(three in total, note: each dispenser is only tested once);

6.3.2.4.

Method of assessing results

6.3.2.4.1.

A test report containing the following information shall be drawn up:

(a) The product tested and its references;

(b) The internal pressure and discharge rate of the aerosol dispenser;

(c) The temperature and relative air humidity of the room;

(d) For each test, the discharge time (s) needed to achieve ignition (if the product does not ignite,

state this);

(e) The mass of the product sprayed during each test (in g);

(f) The actual volume of the drum (in dm3).

6.3.2.4.2.

The time equivalent (teq) needed to achieve ignition in one cubic metre can be calculated as follows:

teq =

1 000 × discharge time (s)
Actual volume of drum (dm3)

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6.3.2.4.3.

The deflagration density (Ddef) needed to achieve ignition during the test may also be calculated as
follows:

Ddef =

1 000 × Amount of product dispensed (g)
Actual volume of drum (dm3)

6.3.3.

Aerosol foam flammability test

6.3.3.1.

Introduction

6.3.3.1.1.

This test standard describes the method to determine the flammability of an aerosol spray emitted in
the form of a foam, mousse, gel or paste. An aerosol, which emits a foam, mousse, gel or paste is
sprayed (approximately 5 g) on a watchglass and an ignition source (candle, wax taper, match or
lighter) is placed at the base of the watchglass to observe if ignition and sustained combustion of the
foam, mousse, gel or paste occurs. Ignition is defined as a stable flame maintained for at least two
seconds and a minimum 4 cm in height.

6.3.3.2.

Apparatus and material

6.3.3.2.1.

The following apparatus is required:

Graduated scale, support and clamp

gradations in cm

Fire-resistant watchglass roughly 150 mm in diameter

Chronometer (stopwatch)

accurate to ± 0,2 s

Candle, wax taper, match or lighter

Calibrated laboratory scales (balance)

accurate to ± 0,1 g

Water bath maintained at 20 °C

Thermometer

Hygrometer

Pressure gauge

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 1 °C

accurate to ± 5 %

accurate to ± 0,1 bar

6.3.3.2.2.

The watchglass is placed on a fire-resistant surface within a draught-free area that may be ventilated
after each test. The graduated scale is positioned exactly behind the watchglass and held vertically by
means of a support and clamp.

6.3.3.2.3.

The scale is positioned in such a way that its origin is on a level with the watchglass base in a
horizontal plane.

6.3.3.3.

Procedure

6.3.3.3.1.

General requirements

6.3.3.3.1.1. Before testing, each aerosol dispenser shall be conditioned and then primed by discharging for
approximately 1 second. The purpose of this action is to remove non-homogeneous material
from the diptube.

6.3.3.3.1.2. The instructions of use shall be strictly followed, including whether the dispenser is intended to be
used in the upright or inverted position. When shaking is required, shake immediately before testing.

6.3.3.3.1.3. The tests shall be carried out in a draught-free environment capable of ventilation, with the
temperature controlled at 20 °C ± 5 °C and relative humidity in the range of 30-80 %.

6.3.3.3.2.

Test procedure

(a) A minimum of four full aerosol dispensers per product shall be conditioned to 20 °C ± 1 °C
with at least 95 % of the dispenser immersed in the water for at least 30 min before each test (if
the aerosol is fully immersed, 30 min conditioning is sufficient);

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(b) Comply with general requirements. Record the temperature and relative humidity of

the

environment;

(c) Determine the internal pressure at 20°C ± 1 °C (to eliminate faulty or partly filled aerosol

dispensers);

(d) Measure the discharge or flow rate of the aerosol product to be examined, so that the amount of

test product dispensed can be more accurately gauged;

(e) Weigh one of the aerosol dispensers and note its mass;

(f) On the basis of

the measured discharge or flow rate and following the manufacturer's
instructions, release approximately 5 g of the product onto the centre of the clean watchglass
with the aim of producing a mound no higher than 25 mm;

(g) Within five seconds of completion of discharge, apply the source of ignition to the edge of the
sample at its base and at the same time start the chronometer (stopwatch). If necessary, the
ignition source shall be removed from the edge of the sample after approximately two seconds,
in order to clearly observe if ignition has occurred. If no ignition of the sample is apparent, the
ignition source shall be reapplied to the edge of the sample;

(h) If ignition occurs note the following points:

(i) The maximum height of the flame in cm above the base of the watchglass;

(ii) The flame duration in s;

(iii) Dry and re-weigh the aerosol dispenser and calculate the mass of the released product;

(i) Ventilate the test area immediately after each test;

(j)

If ignition is not obtained and the released product remains in the form of a foam or paste
throughout its period of use, steps (e) to (i) shall be repeated. Allow the product to stand for 30
sec, 1 min, 2 min or 4 min before applying the ignition source;

(k) Repeat the test procedure steps (e) to (j) twice more (a total of 3) for the same can;

(l) Repeat the test procedure steps (e) to (k) for another two aerosol cans (3 cans in total) of the

same product.

6.3.3.4.

Method of assessing results

6.3.3.4.1.

A test report containing the following information shall be drawn up:

(a) whether the product ignites;

(b) maximum flame height in cm;

(c) duration of flame in s;

(d) the mass of the product tested.’