EN ISO 14116: European Heat and Flame, Limited Flame Spread Standard
EN ISO 14116 is a European standard that focuses on the limited flame spread properties of protective clothing. It provides a standardised framework for evaluating the resistance of garments to flame propagation. This standard is particularly important in industries where workers may be exposed to heat and flame hazards.
The standard includes two testing methods to assess limited flame spread
Test Method A: Limited Flame Spread (A1 and A2)
A1: The fabric is exposed to a small flame for a short duration (≤2 seconds) and should not continue to burn or form holes.
A2: The fabric is exposed to a small flame for a longer duration (>2 seconds) and should not continue to burn or form holes.
Test Method B: Limited Flame Spread (Index 3)
This test evaluates the performance of a complete garment assembly when exposed to a larger flame source. The criteria assessed include afterflame time, afterglow time, and the damage caused to the garment.
Garments complying with EN ISO 14116 are classified based on their limited flame spread performance:
Index 1: Provides limited flame spread protection according to Test Method A1.
Index 2: Provides limited flame spread protection according to Test Method A2.
Index 3: Provides limited flame spread protection according to Test Method B.
EN ISO 14116 is widely applied in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and utilities, where workers face potential heat and flame hazards. Compliance with this standard ensures that protective clothing meets the required performance criteria for limited flame spread. By adhering to EN ISO 14116, manufacturers and employers prioritize worker safety and minimize the risk of injuries related to flame propagation.
In conclusion, EN ISO 14116 is a European standard that evaluates the limited flame spread properties of protective clothing. It provides testing methods and criteria to assess the resistance of garments to flame propagation. Compliance with this standard is crucial for ensuring worker safety in industries where heat and flame hazards are present.