1.1 This test method covers a small-scale laboratory screening procedure for comparing the relative rate of burning and/or extent and time of burning of self-supporting plastics in the form of bars, molded or cut from sheets, plates, or panels, and tested in the horizontal position. This test method should be used to establish relative burning characteristics of plastic materials and should not be used as a fire-hazard test method.

Note 1-Warning-During the course of combustion, gases or vapors, or both, are evolved which may be hazardous to personnel. Precaution-In addition to other precautions, adequate precautions should be taken to protect the operator.

Note 2-Additional information on materials which do not burn to the gage mark by this test may be obtained using Test Method D 3801. For tests of flexible plastics in the form of thin sheets and film, reference should be made to Test Methods D 4804. Tests on the burning rate of sheet and plate insulation are covered in Test Methods D 229. Burning characteristics, as measured by minimum oxygen to support combustion, may be determined by Test Method D 2863.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.3 This standard should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular end use>.

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. For specific hazard statements, see Note 1 and 6.1.