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1.1 This test method measures the ability of a vapor protective suit, including seams and closures, to maintain a fixed, positive pressure over a specified period of time.

1.2 This test method does not measure vapor protection of suits. This test method measures the integrity of the suit, glove, foot protection, and visor materials, as well as the seams and closures of a vapor protective suit. Exhaust valves fitted in the vapor protective suit must be sealed or blocked for this test and therefore are not functionally tested.

1.3 The values as stated in in.-H₂O (mm-H₂O) units are to be regarded as the 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. For specific hazard statements, see Section 7.

1.5 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.

5.1 This test method is only appropriate for evaluating the integrity of totally encapsulating protective suits that are designed and manufactured to prevent the inward leakage of gases and vapors. However, this test method does not evaluate the exhaust(s) which permit the release of exhalation air from the wearer’s self-contained breathing apparatus or supplied air respirator, or the effects of use on the suit’s ability to protect against inward leakage of gases or vapors. Suit vapor protection should be tested in accordance with Test Method F2588. Garments designed to protect from liquid chemicals should be tested in accordance with Test Method F1359/F1359M.

5.2 It is possible to apply this test method to suits that do not fully encapsulate the wearer by providing fixtures or other means of blocking off those portions of the suit that are open, such as hood face openings or sleeve ends.

5.3 This nondestructive test method is useful as a quality control tool for manufacturers and as a field method for end users to determine changes in garment integrity following use.

5.4 This test method is useful to end users for determining the integrity of vapor protective suits upon receipt from the manufacturer, prior to use, following use and decontamination, following repairs, and as a periodic maintenance test.