This specification covers woven asbestos cloth having a specified minimum weight % of asbestos fiber, excluding mass of other inorganic reinforcing strands which may be present. Asbestos cloths are classified into classes (Classes A, B, C, D, and E) according to the nature of the yarns from which they are woven, and into grades (Commercial, Underwriters', A, AA, AAA, and AAAA) according to the percentage of asbestos content by mass. Style designations are also given for both non-metallic and metallic (wire-inserted) asbestos cloths. Specimens shall be sampled, prepared, tested, and conform accordingly to specified physical (yarn and reinforcement type), electromagnetic (electrical insulation), mechanical (tensile or breaking strength), chemical (asbestos content), and dimensional property (width, thickness, mass per unit area or weight, fabric count, and yarn number) requirements.

1.1 This specification covers woven asbestos cloth having a minimum of 75 % asbestos fiber by weight, excluding the mass of other inorganic reinforcing strands which may be present.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 Warning-Breathing of asbestos dust is hazardous. Asbestos and asbestos products present demonstrated health risks for users and for those with whom they come into contact. In addition to other precautions, when working with asbestos-cement products, minimize the dust that results. For information on the safe use of chrysoltile asbestos, refer to "Safe Use of Chrysotile Asbestos: A Manual on Preventive and Control Measures."

1.4 The following safety caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section , described in this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific safety hazard, see 1.3.