ISO 21942:2019/Amd 1:2024

Overview

ISO 21942:2019/Amd 1:2024 is the latest amendment to the international standard for station uniforms for firefighters, published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This amendment updates requirements related to performance, durability, and safety of firefighter station uniforms, ensuring enhanced protection and functionality. It is part of ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 94, which focuses on personal safety and protective clothing and equipment for emergency responders.

This amendment refines critical sections around thermal resistance, physical performance, ergonomic comfort, and flame spread behavior - making it a vital document for manufacturers, safety officers, and regulatory bodies involved in firefighting apparel compliance.

Key Topics

• Thermal Performance Requirements
  Updated heat resistance testing criteria specify two levels of protective performance:

  • Level 1 requires resistance at 180°C, ensuring no melting, dripping, ignition, or excessive shrinkage during exposure.
  • Level 2 includes an optional higher resistance at 260°C for materials worn next to the skin, with stricter shrinkage limits.

• Limited Flame Spread and Afterflame Behavior
  The amendment clarifies flame spread limits, ensuring no flame reaches garment edges and restricting flaming or molten debris production.
  Afterflame time limits for Level 2 uniforms are established at a maximum of 2 seconds, improving overall firefighter safety during flame exposure.

• Physical and Structural Requirements
  Specifications include tensile and tear strength, burst strength for knitted materials, structural seam strength, and dimensional stability after exposure to heat. These ensure durability and longevity of station uniforms in demanding environments.

• Ergonomic and Comfort Standards
  Thermal and water vapor resistance standards guarantee wearer comfort and breathability, critical for firefighters during strenuous activities. Optional requirements for electrostatic resistance and color fastness enhance the appeal and safety of the uniforms.

• Testing Methods Referenced
  The amendment references recognized ISO standards such as ISO 17493 (heat resistance), ISO 9151 (heat transfer), ISO 6942 (radiation heat transfer), and ISO 5077 (dimensional change), ensuring the robustness of test protocols.

Applications

• Firefighter Station Uniform Design and Manufacturing
  Manufacturers utilize ISO 21942:2019/Amd 1:2024 as a benchmark to develop uniforms that meet rigorous safety and durability requirements, balancing protection with comfort.

• Procurement and Compliance Verification
  Fire departments and safety agencies refer to this standard when specifying uniforms to ensure that products conform to internationally recognized safety and performance levels.

• Protective Clothing Research & Development
  The updated criteria from this amendment guide material scientists and apparel engineers in innovating fabric technologies capable of delivering improved thermal protection and ergonomic performance.

• Quality Assurance & Certification
  Certification bodies rely on the amended standard for testing and auditing station uniforms, guaranteeing that garments meet prescribed performance categories and comply with fire safety regulations.

Related Standards

• ISO 17493 – Protective clothing - Protection against heat and fire - Method to test heat resistance.
• ISO 9151 – Protective clothing - Protection against heat and fire - Measurement of heat transmission on exposure to a convective heat source.
• ISO 6942 – Protective clothing - Protection against heat and fire - Method of test for convective and radiant heat resistance.
• ISO 5077 – Textiles - Determination of dimensional change in washing and drying.
• ISO 13934-1 & ISO 13937-2 – Textile physical performance tests related to tensile and tear strength.
• ISO 15025 – Protective clothing - Protection against heat and flame - Method of test for Limited flame spread.

This amendment enhances the globally recognized framework for firefighter station uniforms, ensuring that safety equipment evolves with emergent risks and technological advancements - safeguarding those who protect communities from fire hazards.