X1.3.1 Tests made on a cellular plastic under conditions herein prescribed can be of considerable value in comparing the rate of burning and/or extent and time of burning of different materials, in controlling manufacturing processes, or as a measure of deterioration or change in burning characteristics prior to or during use.

X1.3.2 This test method is not intended to be a criterion for fire hazard. The fire hazard created by materials depends upon the form and end use of the material. Assessment of fire hazard includes, but is not limited to, many factors, such as, ease of ignition, burning rate, flame spread, fuel contribution, intensity of burning, and products of combustion.

1.1 This specification covers acceptance testing of rubber insulating matting for use as a floor covering for protection of workers.

1.2 Two types of matting, differing in chemical and physical characteristics, are provided and are designated as Type I and Type II matting.

1.3 The following safety hazards caveat applies only to the test method portion, Sections 17 to 19, of 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.

Note 1—Rubber insulating matting should remain flexible for use through normal temperature ranges.

Note 2—Rubber as used in this specification is a generic term that includes elastomers and elastomer compounds, regardless of origin.

X1.1.1 This test method covers a small-scale horizontal laboratory screening procedure for measuring the rate, extent, or time, or a combination thereof, of burning of rigid or flexible cellular plastics in accordance with this test procedure.

X1.1.2 Materials that exhibit pronounced shrinking, curling, or melting away upon heating cannot be evaluated by this test method.

X1.1.3 This test method is not applicable to materials that cannot be ignited under the conditions of this test, or to materials that exhibit progressive combustion without flame (continued glowing or charring).

Note X1.1—The rate of burning or extent of burning of rigid cellular plastics also may be determined by Test Method D3014 where the specimen is supported vertically.

X1.1.3.1 WarningDuring the course of combustion, gases or vapors, are evolved that may be hazardous to personnel. Adequate precautions should be taken to protect the operator.

X1.1.4 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.