ASTM E2574/E2574M-12

1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.

1.2 This test method assesses the burning behavior of upholstered seating used in school buses by measuring specific fire-test responses when a school bus seat specimen is subjected to a specified flaming ignition source under normally ventilated conditions.

1.3 The ignition source is a gas burner.

1.4 This fire test is primarily useful to distinguish products that, when exposed to an ignition source, will become fully involved in fire from other products that will not.

1.5 Data are obtained describing the burning behavior of the seat assemblies from a specific ignition source until all burning has ceased.

1.6 This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of upholstered seating in fire conditions other than those conditions specified.

1.7 The burning behavior is visually documented by photographic or video recordings, whenever possible.

1.8 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.9 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.

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

1.11 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.