5.1 These test methods are intended for use by those in the waste management industries to aid in identifying the flammability potential or waste materials. In addition to the test methods described here, flash points specific to liquid waste can be determined according to Test Method D8174 or D8175.

1.1 These test methods are used to indicate the fire-producing or fire-sustaining potential of wastes. The following test methods can be applied to waste liquids, sludges, or solids:

Sections

Test Method A—Test Specimen Exposed to Heat and Flame

8 – 10

Test Method B—Test Specimen Exposed to Spark Source

11 and 12

1.2 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.3 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.

1.4 These test methods are designed and intended as preliminary tests to complement quantitative analytical techniques that are useful to determine flammability. These test methods offer the option and the ability to screen waste for hazardous flammability potential when the analytical techniques are not available or the total waste composition is unknown.

1.5 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazard information is given in Section 6, 9.3.1, and 10.4.3.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.