ASTM F1930, more commonly known as the manikin test, specifies a standard process for measuring the average predicted body burn of a flame resistant fabric based on a laboratory flash fire simulation. It details the specific procedures necessary to perform the test, which ensures accuracy and consistency from one lab to another or at a singular lab over time, but does not provide pass/fail criteria. This is true of almost all ASTM standards – they are test methods, which generally do not contain performance criteria.
As Scott Margolin, Subject Matter Expert, explains in the video below, the pass/fail criteria are placed around ASTM F1930 by other standards such as NFPA 2112, the flash fire standard for FR clothing and NFPA F2733, the flash fire standard for FR rainwear. These standards require exposure to a 3 second propane fueled fire, and the average of 3 tests must be 50% or less 2nd and 3rd degree body burn to pass NFPA 2112 and 40% or less body burn to pass NFPA F2733. The results predict the exact extent, severity, and location of 2nd and 3rd degree body burn combined.
Watch our video below to see ASTM F1930 in action:
Here’s how the test is performed:
Have other technical questions?
Keep an eye on your inbox every Friday when we answer frequently asked questions about FR clothing. Or, contact Scott Margolin for a complimentary 15-minute technical consultation!