5.1 This test method evaluates the ability of the construction and configuration of protective clothing or protective ensembles to resist liquid penetration. In most cases, the conditions used in this test method will not represent actual end-use conditions.
5.2 Two different spray configurations are used for exposing the protective clothing or protective ensemble on a manikin.
5.2.1 Procedure A involves five shower nozzles with one nozzle directly above the clothed manikin and two nozzles each to upper and lower sides of the manikin that are all positioned in the same vertical plane. This spray configuration is intended to provide a full exposure of the entire protective clothing or protective ensemble system.
5.2.2 Procedure B involves three shower nozzles that are positioned at different heights on a vertical line that is parallel to the manikin with the locations and direction of each nozzle set with respect to targets on the manikin. This spray configuration is intended to provide a direct assessment of garment features such as the front closure.
5.3 The selected duration of the test is not intended to simulate user exposure to splashes of liquid substances but rather to provide sufficient time for enough liquid to penetrate to make visual detection easier. The default liquid exposure time for Procedure A is 20 min. The default liquid exposure time for Procedure B is 10 min.
5.3.1 It is permissible to specify shorter test durations. It is recommended that the duration of exposure be the same in each manikin orientation.
5.3.2 The choice of different test duration is partly based on the number of layers in the specimen being tested, some of which serve to absorb the surfactant-treated test liquid and result in attenuating the severity of the liquid challenge to the specimen.
5.4 A nontoxic, non-foaming surfactant is added to water for this test method to simulate liquids of lower surface tensions. Liquids of specific interest can be simulated by treating water to achieve an equivalent surface tension.
5.5 For protective clothing with water-repellent surfaces, the lower surface tension liquid will aid in the evaluation of the construction and configuration of the garment because it is less likely to be repelled and more likely to wet the protective clothing. This is especially useful for reusable garments whose water-repellent surface interferes with the evaluation of their construction and configuration when new, but is diminished after wearing and washing.
5.6 Fluorescent or colored dyes are permitted to be added to the water to enhance detection of liquid penetration into the protective clothing or protective ensemble.
5.7 This test method can be used by both manufacturers and end users to assess liquid penetration resistance. Manufacturers can use this test method to evaluate quality of constructio......