This test measures the flammability of fabric when it's exposed to specific ignition. Fabric is exposed to flame for 12 seconds and the flame, char length and flaming residue are recorded. The fabric passes the test if all samples meet the following criteria: An after flame of less than 2.0 seconds. A char length of less than 6.5 inches. The specimen does not continue to flame after it falls to the floor of the test chamber. Fabric that passes the test is certified as flame retardant by the NFPA 701 test.
Flame retardant materials have been treated with a flame-proofing compound to make them fire retardant. This compound adheres to the outside of the cloth fibers but it is water soluble. Washing, dry cleaning or painting the fabric can remove the compound and void its fire retardant properties. Excessive humidity over time can have the same effect. Different fabrics like Fabricuk cotton twill, canvas, voile have been treated and are fire retardant. Annual testing is recommended and fabric can be re-flame-proofed.
IFR fabrics, like Newtex Extreme, Z-Flex, Z-Shield and Nomex, are manufactured from polyester yarns to meet NFPA701 testing standards with no additional treatment. These fabrics are expected to retain this property but yearly testing is recommended.
Fabrics like Steel Guard, which is woven of textured fiberglass strands, remain non-combustible for their useful life. They can withstand laundering or dry-cleaning for an extensive period of time. Steel Guard material can take temperatures up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.
These fabrics are woven with threads that are not fire retardant and they have not been treated. Through the use of chemical applications, they can become fire resistant.
Certain synthetics or metallic fabrics should not be used in public venues as they can't be made flame retardant. They can't be successfully treated.
Some states, like Florida, require compliance with the NFPA standard. Others, like New York and Massachusetts, have accepted NFPA 701 certification but some cities have additional requirements. New York City requires fabrics to be certified according to standards outlined in the New York Administrative Code. Boston requires users to submit applications for use permits in advance for every fabric installed in a public place. California requires all fabric used in public places to be registered with the State Fire Marshall and comply with Title 19 requirements of the California Code of Regulations. Documentation of testing is required in California but not by NFPA 701. The state's CSFM designation is often accepted by other states.