4.1 In past research experiments, some surface applied fire retardant chemicals improved the fire performance characteristics of natural Christmas trees, whereas other retardants were not effective, or adversely affected tree quality or burning characteristics. These methods are intended to provide a two-step process to determine the effectiveness of surface applied treatments to natural Christmas trees.

4.2 The fire performance of natural trees is highly variable and varies from species to species. Test results from these methods do not intend to provide data for judgment on the absolute fire performance of any natural or treated natural tree, but rather provide a means for comparing the fire performance of treated versus untreated trees.

4.3 These test methods do not take into account the influence of decorations that are added to the tree.

4.4 For Test Method 1, only Fraser fir [Abies fraseri (Pursh) Poi.] trees are tested. Although this is one of the most commonly used Christmas trees in the United States, it is possible that results for other tree species will differ from the results for this species.

4.5 For Test Method 2, Large Scale Fire Test, it is important that the treated and untreated tree specimens be evaluated consistently and as simultaneously as possible for adequate comparative results.

4.6 The performance of the treatment will vary depending on the uniformity of the application of the treatment. This quality of application is not determined by these test methods.

1.1 This fire-test-response standard provides a two-step testing process for determining the effectiveness of surface applied treatments for natural Christmas trees to improve fire test response. In order for a treatment to be considered compliant with this standard, the Conditions of Acceptance of both Methods 1 and 2 are to be met.

1.2 The purpose of these test methods is to:

1.2.1 Utilize a detached branch test (Method 1) to screen potential surface-applied fire retardant products and to determine their effectiveness in limiting the spread of flame and the continuation of flaming by comparing the burning characteristics of treated and untreated small Christmas tree branches subjected to a small open Bunsen-burner type flame ignition source, and

1.2.2 Use whole natural Christmas trees (Method 2) to determine the effectiveness of surface applied fire retardants found to be effective in the detached branch test (Method 1) through comparison of heat release rate contribution of treated trees as compared to untreated trees when subjected to an open flame ignition source.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

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

1.6 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

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.