5.1 This guide identifies the responsibilities of the fiber, fabric, and clothing manufacturers, as well as the processor, the processor's chemical supplier and the end user.

5.2 This guide describes the key components involved in a program for the care and maintenance of flame, thermal, and arc resistant clothing.

5.3 The guidelines in this standard will provide a processor assistance to develop a processing system that maintains the flame, thermal, and arc resistant characteristics of the clothing during its useful service life.

5.4 The guide also provides suggestions as to when flame, thermal, and arc resistant garments should be removed from service.

1.1 This guide provides recommendations for the care and maintenance of clothing that is flame, thermal, and arc resistant.

1.2 These recommendations address the Industrial Laundering process.

1.3 It is important that potentially flammable contaminants are removed from garments during the wash process. If flammable contaminants are not removed, the flame resistance of the garment will be compromised. (See Note 1.)

1.4 It is important that the processes and materials used to launder flame resistant garments are compatible with the FR materials to ensure that the FR protection of the garment is not compromised during the laundering process.

1.5 It is the responsibility of the end user to determine if their laundering method is the appropriate care and maintenance procedure for their application. (See Appendix X1 and X1.1.)

1.6 This guide does not apply to specialized protective garments such as specialized firefighter turnout gear and proximity firefighter ensembles.

1.7 This guide also identifies inspection criteria that are significant to the performance of flame, thermal, and arc resistant clothing.