NFPA 1971 Fire Fighter’s Turnout Gear

ArcWear provides pre-testing for the following tests covered by this standard

Fabrics and ensembles may require testing for flame resistance by either:

D6413 Test Method for Flame Resistance of Textiles (Vertical Test)

F1358 Test Method for Effects of Flame Impingement on Materials Used in Protective Clothing Not Designated Primarily for Flame Resistance

Thermal Protective Performance must be evaluated spaced, un-spaced and before and after laundering by ISO 17492 – Thermal Transfer Performance (TTP)

Many elements including fabric, ensembles, helmets, gloves and hoods are tested according to ASTM F2894 – Heat Resistance.

F2894 Test Method for Evaluation of Materials, Protective Clothing and Equipment for Heat Resistance Using a Hot Air Circulating Oven with specific criteria to this standard.

Thread in garments must be tested by D7138 Test Method to Determine Melting Temperature of Synthetic Fibers

Samples must be conditioned by different standards including:

AATCC 135 Dimensional Changes in Automatic Home Laundering of Woven and Knit Fabrics

Other test methods in the ArcWear accredited scope for Turnout Gear include

• ASTM D1117 – Tear Resistance
• ASTM D5034 – Breaking Strength
• ASTM D3786 – Bursting Strength

This standard includes specifications and testing for the following equipment:

• Structural Fire Fighting Protective Garment Elements 
• Proximity Fire Fighting Protective Garment Elements
• Protective Helmet
• Protective Gloves
• Protective Footwear
• Protective Hood Interface Components
• Optional Protective components including particulate protection
• Wristlet and garment/glove interface requirements
• Optional performance requirements for protection from liquid and particulate contaminants.