ASTM F1862-00a

1.1 This test method is used to evaluate the resistance of medical face masks to penetration by synthetic blood under high velocity liquid contact with the medical face mask surface of a fixed volume over a relatively short period of time (0 to 2.5 s). Medical face mask pass/fail determinations are based on visual detection of synthetic blood penetration

1.2 This test method does not apply to all forms or conditions of blood-borne pathogen exposure. Users of the test method must review modes for face exposure and assess the appropriateness of this test method for their specific application.

1.3 This test method primarily addresses the performance of materials or certain material constructions used in medical face masks. This test method does not address the performance of the medical face mask's design, construction, or interfaces or other factors which may affect the overall protection offered by the medical face mask and its operation (such as filtration efficiency and pressure drop). Procedures for measuring these properties are contained in MIL-M-36954C.

1.4 This test method does not address breathability of the medical face mask materials or any other properties affecting the ease of breathing through the medical face mask. This test method evaluates medical face masks as an item of protective clothing. This test method does not evaluate the performance of medical face masks for airborne exposure pathways or in the prevention of the penetration of aerosolized body fluids deposited on the medical face mask.

1.5 The values stated in 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.

1.6 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.