ASTM C1055

Scope

1.1 This guide covers a process for the determination of acceptable surface operating conditions for heated systems. The human burn hazard is defined, and methods are presented for use in the design or evaluation of heated systems to prevent serious injury from contact with the exposed surfaces.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 The maximum acceptable temperature for a particular surface is derived from an estimate of the possible or probable contact time, the surface system configuration, and the level of injury deemed acceptable for a particular situation.

1.4 For design purposes, the probable contact time for industrial situations has been established at 5 s. For consumer products, a longer (60-s) contact time has been proposed by Wu (1) and others to reflect the slower reaction times for children, the elderly, or the infirm.

1.5 The maximum level of injury recommended here is that causing first degree burns on the average subject. This type of injury is reversible and causes no permanent tissue damage. For cases where more severe conditions are mandated (by space, economic, exposure probability, or other outside considerations), this guide may be used to establish a second, less desirable injury level (second degree burns), where some permanent tissue damage can be permitted. At no time, however, are conditions that produce third degree burns recommended.

1.6 This guide addresses the skin contact temperature determination for passive heated surfaces only. The guidelines contained herein are not applicable to chemical, electrical, or other similar hazards that provide a heat generation source at the location of contact.

1.7 A bibliography of human burn evaluation studies and surface hazard measurement is provided in the list of references at the end of this guide (1-16).

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all 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 its use.

Keywords

burns; epidermal injury; heat; injuries; skin contact temperatures; thermal insulation; Burn hazard potential; Burning characteristics--thermal insulation; Contact burning injuries; Dermal exposure; First degree burn; Health hazards; Heated surfaces; Heating tests; Heating tests--building products; Heating tests--thermal insulation; Hyperthermia; Injury; Mathematical medicine; Necrosis; Physiological mechanisms of burns; Second degree burn; Skin; Skin contact temperature; Surface temperature (for burns); Temperature tests--thermal insulation; Thermal insulating materials; Third degree burn

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 97.100.01 (Domestic, commercial and industrial heating appliances in general)

DOI: 10.1520/C1055-03R09