IS 153812003AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Fire Blanket

IS 15381:2003 specifies the requirements for fire blankets made primarily from asbestos cloth, designed for use in early-stage fire fighting to protect operators and smother fires. This standard details material specifications, manufacturing practices, dimensions, workmanship, and marking requirements, ensuring safety and quality for fire safety professionals and manufacturers.

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2003Edition
Fire SafetyCategory
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What This Standard Covers

IS 15381:2003 specifies the requirements for fire blankets made primarily from asbestos cloth, designed for use in early-stage fire fighting to protect operators and smother fires. This standard details material specifications, manufacturing practices, dimensions, workmanship, and marking requirements, ensuring safety and quality for fire safety professionals and manufacturers.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Fire safety engineers
  • Safety equipment manufacturers
  • Occupational health and safety officers
  • Firefighters and emergency responders
  • Quality control inspectors
  • Procurement specialists in safety equipment
  • Industrial safety consultants

Key Topics Covered

Material specifications for asbestos cloth and yarn
Manufacturing and workmanship requirements
Dimensions and tolerances of fire blankets
Stitching and loop construction details
Sampling, inspection, and acceptance criteria
Marking and labeling requirements
Health and safety recommendations for asbestos handling
Certification and Standard Mark usage
Related standards for asbestos safety and handling
Packaging, transport, and storage guidelines
Pictorial warning signs for asbestos products
Quality assurance and testing methods

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 15381: Scope & Key Specifications for Fire Blanket (1.8 m × 1.8 m)


Scope (Clause 1.8)

  • Covers material, manufacture, and other requirements of fire blankets sized 1.8 m × 1.8 m.
  • References multiple related IS standards for asbestos handling, health, safety, and materials (see table below).
IS No.Title Summary
7639Sampling of asbestos cement products
11451Occupational asbestos exposure safety
11767Cleaning plants using asbestos fibers
11768Disposal of asbestos waste
11770 (Part 3)Control of asbestos dust emission (non-cement products)
12078Personal protection for asbestos handlers
12079Packaging, transport, storage of asbestos
12080Local exhaust ventilation systems
12081 (Parts 1 & 2)Warning signs for asbestos and products
13362Asbestos yarn textiles

Material Specifications

ComponentMaterialParticulars
BodyCloth asbestos yarnYarn per IS 13362, thickness 1.6 mm
LoopsTape/web asbestos or cloth asbestosThickness 1.6 mm (Annex A)
StitchingSewing thread asbestosAs per Annex B

Manufacturing & Dimension Requirements

  • Stitching: 16 to 20 stitches per decimeter, neat & secure with even tension (Clause 4.3).
  • Dimensions: 1.8 m × 1.8 m with ±15 mm tolerance.
  • Loops: Secured by gate stitching (SS section).

Rounding Off (IS 2:1960)

  • Final values must be rounded off with the same significant digits as specified.

Summary Diagram of Fire Blanket Components

graph TD
    A[Fire Blanket 1.8m x 1.8m]
    A --> B[Body: Cloth asbestos yarn (1.6 mm)]
    A --> C[Loops: Tape/Web asbestos or Cloth asbestos (1.6 mm)]
    A --> D[Stitching: Asbestos sewing thread, 
2References

IS 15381 - References & Key Specifications Summary

Rounding Off (IS 2:1960):

  • Final test/analysis values must be rounded to the same number of significant figures as specified.

Referenced Standards Table

IS No.Title
7639 : 1975Methods of sampling of asbestos cement products
11451 : 1986Safety and health requirements for occupational asbestos exposure
11767 : 1986Cleaning premises/plants using asbestos fibres
11768 : 1986Disposal of asbestos waste material
11770 (Part 3):87Control of asbestos dust emission in non-cement asbestos products
12078 : 1987Personal protection for asbestos handlers
12079 : 1987Packaging, transport, and storage of asbestos
12080 : 1987Local exhaust ventilation systems for asbestos product manufacturing
12081 (Parts 1,2)Pictorial warning signs for asbestos and products
13362 : 1992Textiles - Asbestos yarn

Fire Blanket Material Specifications

ComponentMaterialParticulars
BodyCloth asbestosYarn per IS 13362, 1.6 mm
LoopsTape/Web asbestosSee Annex A; Cloth asbestos 1.6 mm
StitchingSewing thread asbestosSee Annex B

Annex A - Tape/Web Asbestos (Average Width 25 mm)

PropertyValue
Ends in full width15 (2 ply)
Picks per decimeter32 (2 ply)
Mass per meter (g)35 to 40 (conditioned at 65±2% RH, 27±2°C for 24 h)

Annex B - Sewing Thread Asbestos

PropertyValue
Minimum plies2
Length (m/kg)1500 to 2200
Breaking strength (
3Materials

IS 15381: Fire Blanket Materials Specifications

Key Material Components

ComponentMaterialSpecifications
BodyCloth asbestosYarn per IS 13362, 1.6 mm thickness
LoopsTape/Web asbestos or Cloth asbestosTape: Width 25 mm, Ends 15 (2-ply), Picks 32 (2-ply), Mass 35-40 g/m at 65±2% RH & 27±2°C
StitchingSewing thread asbestos2 plies min, Length 1500-2200 m/kg, Breaking strength ≥ 3.0 kg, Moisture ≤ 4%, Loss on ignition ≤ 45%

Tape Construction Details (Annex A)

  • Tape yarns are plied and twisted uniformly.
  • Tape thickness and mass controlled as above.

Sewing Thread Details (Annex B)

  • Test length: 20 m conditioned at 65±2% RH, 27±2°C.
  • Breaking strength test: 600 mm gauge length, 300 mm/min strain rate, average of 20 specimens.

Rounding Off Rule

  • Final test values rounded per IS 2:1960 to match significant figures of specified values.

Summary Table: Sewing Thread Properties

PropertyValue
No. of plies≥ 2
Length (m/kg)1500-2200
Breaking strength (kg)≥ 3.0
Moisture content (%)≤ 4
Loss on ignition (%)≤ 45

This ensures compliance with IS 15381 for fire blanket manufacture using asbestos textiles conforming to related IS standards.

4Construction

IS 15381: Fire Blanket - Construction Key Details

Materials & Components

ComponentMaterialParticulars
BodyCloth asbestos yarn1.6 mm diameter, IS 13362
LoopsTape/Web asbestos or Cloth asbestosTape details in Annex A
StitchingSewing thread asbestosSpecs in Annex B

Tape/Web Asbestos (Annex A)

Width (mm)Ends (threads)Picks (threads/decimeter)Mass (g/m) at 65±2% RH & 27±2ºC
2515 (2 ply)32 (2 ply)35 to 40
  • Tape yarns must be twisted plies with uniform thickness.

Sewing Thread (Annex B)

Min PliesLength (m/kg)Avg Breaking Strength (kg)Max Moisture (%)Max Loss on Ignition (%)
21500 to 22003.0445
  • Breaking strength tested on 600 mm length at 65±2% RH, 27±2ºC, 300 mm/min stretch rate.
  • Moisture and ignition loss limits ensure durability and fire resistance.

Rounding Off

  • Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding test/analysis results, matching significant figures of specified values.

This ensures fire blankets meet strict material and manufacturing standards for safety and performance.

5Dimensions and Tolerances

IS 15381: Dimensions and Tolerances for Fire Blankets

  • Standard Blanket Size:

    • Length = 1.8 m
    • Width = 1.8 m
  • Permissible Tolerance:

    • ± 15 mm in both length and width
  • Stitching Specifications (Clause 4.3):

    • Stitch density: 16 to 20 stitches per decimetre
    • Stitching must be neat, secure, with even tension
    • All loose ends to be fastened off securely
  • Materials:

    • Body: Cloth asbestos yarn, 1.6 mm diameter (IS 13362)
    • Loops: Tape/web asbestos or cloth asbestos, 1.6 mm
    • Stitching thread: Asbestos sewing thread (Annex B)

Summary Table: Dimensions & Tolerances

ParameterValueTolerance
Length1.8 m± 15 mm
Width1.8 m± 15 mm
Stitch Density16–20 stitches/dmN/A

Rounding Off (IS 2:1960)

  • Final test values should be rounded to the same significant figures as specified in the standard.

flowchart LR
    A[Blanket Dimensions] --> B[Length = 1.8 m ± 15 mm]
    A --> C[Width = 1.8 m ± 15 mm]
    D[Stitching] --> E[16-20 stitches/dm]
    D --> F[Secure, neat, even tension]
    G[Materials] --> H[Cloth asbestos yarn (1.6 mm)]
    G --> I[Loops: Tape/Web asbestos or cloth asbestos]
    G --> J[Stitching thread: asbestos sewing thread]

This ensures compliance with IS 15381 for fire blanket manufacture and quality control.

6Workmanship and Finish

IS 15381: Workmanship and Finish for Fire Blankets

Key Specifications:

  • Workmanship Quality:

    • Free from spinning, weaving, and stitching defects.
    • Consistent with good manufacturing practice.
  • Stitching (Clause 4.3):

    • Neat and secure with even tension.
    • 16 to 20 stitches per decimetre.
    • All loose ends must be securely fastened.
  • Dimensions and Tolerances (Clause 5):

    • Blanket size as per Fig. 1.
    • Tolerance: ±15 mm in length and width.
  • Inspection and Sampling:

    • As per IS 7639.
  • Health & Safety:

    • Follow personal protection guidelines from IS 11451, IS 11767, IS 11768, IS 11770 (Part 3), IS 12078, IS 12079, and IS 12080 for asbestos dust control.

Summary Table:

ParameterSpecification
Stitch Density16 to 20 stitches per decimetre
Dimension Tolerance±15 mm (length & width)
WorkmanshipFree from defects, neat stitching
Inspection StandardIS 7639

flowchart TD
    A[Raw Material] --> B[Weaving & Spinning]
    B --> C[Stitching (16-20 stitches/dm)]
    C --> D[Inspection (IS 7639)]
    D --> E[Final Fire Blanket]
    E --> F[Packaging & Dispatch]

This ensures a high-quality fire blanket meeting IS 15381 standards.

7Sampling, Inspection and Acceptance

IS 15381 Sampling, Inspection, and Acceptance Key Points

  • Sampling & Inspection: As per IS 15381, sampling and acceptance of asbestos fire blankets shall follow IS 7639:1975 (Methods of sampling asbestos cement products).

  • Rounding Off: Test results must be rounded according to IS 2:1960 rules, retaining the same significant figures as specified.

  • Material Specifications:

    • Body: Cloth asbestos, yarn per IS 13362.
    • Loops: Tape/web asbestos or cloth asbestos, 1.6 mm thick.
    • Stitching: Sewing thread asbestos per Annex B.
  • Sewing Thread (Annex B):

ParameterValue
Minimum plies2
Length (m/kg)1500 to 2200
Breaking strength (kg)≥ 3.0
Max moisture content (%)4
Max loss on ignition (%)45
  • Tape/Web Asbestos (Annex A):
Width (mm)Ends (threads)Picks (per dm)Mass (g/m) at 65±2% RH, 27±2°C
2515 (2 ply)32 (2 ply)35 to 40
  • Acceptance Criteria: The fire blanket shall be free from defects in spinning, weaving, stitching, and workmanship per good manufacturing practice.

Summary Flowchart of Sampling & Acceptance Process

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Production Batch] --> B[Sampling as per IS 7639]
    B --> C[Test & Measure per IS 15381]
    C --> D{Results within Spec Limits?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Accept Batch]
    D -- No --> F[Reject or Rework Batch]
    E --> G[Mark with BIS Certification]
    F --> G

For detailed sampling procedures, refer to IS 7639, and for rounding rules, see IS 2:1960.

8Marking

IS 15381 — Marking Requirements for Fire Blankets

Clause 9.1: Mandatory Marking on Each Blanket

  • Nomenclature
  • Manufacturer's name
  • Year of manufacture
  • Pictorial warning sign as per IS 12081 (Parts 1 & 2)
  • Marking must be legible and indelible

Clause 9.2: BIS Certification Marking

  • Fire blankets conforming to IS 15381 may bear the BIS Standard Mark.
  • Use of this mark is governed by the BIS Act, 1986.
  • Conditions for license and use can be obtained from BIS.

Rounding Off Values

  • Follow IS 2:1960 rules for rounding off test or analysis results.
  • Maintain the same number of significant digits as specified.

Key Table: BIS Certification Marking (Clause 9.2.1)

ParameterDetails
Width of tape (average)25 mm
Number of threads (ends in full width)15 (2 ply)
Picks per decimeter32 (2 ply)
Mass per meter (conditioned)35 to 40 g

Summary Diagram of Marking Elements

graph TD
    A[Fire Blanket] --> B[Nomenclature]
    A --> C[Manufacturer's Name]
    A --> D[Year of Manufacture]
    A --> E[Pictorial Warning (IS 12081)]
    A --> F[BIS Standard Mark (optional)]

References:

  • IS 15381: Fire Blankets — Marking & Specifications
  • IS 12081: Pictorial Warning Signs
  • IS 2: Rules for Rounding Off Numerical Values
  • BIS Act, 1986 for certification rules

This ensures traceability, quality assurance, and user safety compliance.

9Certification Marking

IS 15381: Certification Marking Key Points

1. BIS Certification Marking (Clause 9.2)

  • Fire blankets conforming to IS 15381 may bear the BIS Standard Mark.
  • Use of the Standard Mark is governed by the BIS Act, 1986 and related regulations.
  • License conditions for use of the Standard Mark are provided by BIS.

2. Marking Details on Fire Blankets (Clause 9.1)

Each fire blanket shall be legibly and indelibly marked with:

  • Nomenclature
  • Manufacturer’s name
  • Year of manufacture
  • Pictorial warning sign as per IS 12081 (Parts 1 and 2)

3. Tape/Web Asbestos Specifications (Clause A-2)

ParameterValue
Width (Average)25 mm
Ends in full width (Threads)15 (2 ply)
Picks per decimeter (Threads)32 (2 ply)
Mass per metre (conditioned)35 to 40 g

4. Sewing Thread Asbestos (Annex B)

PropertySpecification
Minimum number of plies2
Length m/kg1500 to 2200 m/kg
Minimum breaking strength3.0 kg (average)
Max hygroscopic moisture content4%
Max loss on ignition45%

Notes on Testing

  • Conditioning: 65 ± 2% RH and 27 ± 2ºC for 24 h (length) or 48 h (strength).
  • Breaking strength tested on 20 specimens at 300 mm/min stretch rate.

Summary Diagram: Certification Marking Process

flowchart TD
    A[Manufacture Fire Blanket] --> B[Conform to IS 15381]
    B --> C[Mark with Required Info]
    C --> D[Apply BIS Standard Mark]
    D --> E[License Compliance Checked]
    E --> F[Market Product]

For detailed licensing info, contact BIS regional offices listed in the standard.

Annex ADetails of Tape/Web Asbestos

IS 15381: Tape/Web Asbestos - Key Specifications & Details


1. Tape/Web Asbestos Construction (Clause 4.2)

  • Two loops per blanket, each 25 mm wide.
  • Loops made from:
    • Tape asbestos (per Clause 3.1(iii)), or
    • Folding and top-stitching a 70 mm wide asbestos cloth (cut warp-wise).
  • Loops sewn on one side of the blanket.
  • Loop placement: 630 mm from each corner.
  • Total strip length per loop: 760 mm, with 460 mm forming the loop.

2. Tape/Web Asbestos Properties (Clause A-2)

ParameterValue
Width (Average)25 mm
Number of Threads (Ends)15 (2 ply)
Number of Threads (Picks)32 (2 ply)
Mass per Metre (Conditioned)35 to 40 g
  • Yarns must conform to IS 13362 (Asbestos yarn standard).

3. Sewing Thread Asbestos (Annex B)

PropertyMinimum Requirement
Number of Plies2
Length per kg1500 to 2200 m
Breaking Strength (avg.)3.0 kg
Max Hygroscopic Moisture Content4%
Max Loss on Ignition45%
  • Conditioning: 65 ± 2% RH, 27 ± 2°C for 24 h.
  • Breaking strength test: 600 mm gauge length, 300 mm/min strain rate.

4. Summary of Materials for Fire Blanket (1.8m × 1.8m)

ComponentMaterialSpecification Reference
BodyCloth asbestos (1.6 mm)Yarn per IS 13362
LoopsTape/Web asbestos or cloth asbestos (1.6 mm)Annex A / Clause 4.2
StitchingSewing thread asbestosAnnex B

flowchart TD
    A[Blanket Body]
Annex BParticulars of Sewing Thread Asbestos

IS 15381: Particulars of Sewing Thread Asbestos (Annex B)

ParameterSpecification
No. of Plies (Min)2
Length (m/kg)1500 to 2200
Minimum (Average) Breaking Strength (kg)3.0
Hygroscopic Moisture Content (%) Max4
Further Loss on Ignition in Muffle Furnace (%) Max45

Testing Conditions:

  • Length per unit mass: Minimum 20 m thread, conditioned at 65 ± 2% RH and 27 ± 2°C for 24 h.
  • Breaking strength: Test piece length to allow 600 mm clear between grips, conditioned 48 h at above conditions, stretched at 300 mm/min. Average of 20 specimens.

Tape/Web Asbestos (Annex A - A-2 Construction Details):

Width (mm)Ends in Full Width (Threads)Picks per Decimeter (Threads)Mass per Meter (g) Conditioned
2515 (2 ply)32 (2 ply)35 to 40
  • Yarns conform to IS 13362.

Summary:

  • Sewing thread asbestos is 2-ply, strong (≥3 kg breaking strength), moisture controlled (≤4%), and heat stable (≤45% loss on ignition).
  • Tape/web asbestos is 25 mm wide, with specific thread counts and mass.
  • Conditioning at 65% RH and 27°C is critical for testing consistency.
flowchart LR
    A[Asbestos Yarn IS 13362]
    B[Tape/Web Asbestos]
    C[Sewing Thread Asbestos]
    D[Fire Blanket Body]
    E[Loops (Tape or Cloth)]
    F[Stitching (Sewing Thread)]

    A --> B
    B --> E
    C --> F
    D -->|Made from| A
    E -->|Attached to| D
    F -->|Stitches Loops| D

This ensures fire blankets meet durability, fire resistance, and manufacturing quality requirements per IS 15381.

Popular Questions About IS 15381

?What materials are specified for manufacturing fire blankets under IS 15381?

Under IS 15381, fire blankets (1.8 m × 1.8 m) are specified to be made from asbestos-based materials with the following details:

ComponentMaterialParticulars
BodyCloth asbestosYarn conforming to IS 13362, thickness 1.6 mm
LoopsTape/Web asbestos or Cloth asbestosThickness 1.6 mm, as per Annex A
StitchingSewing thread asbestosAs per Annex B

Key Points:

  • Yarn used must conform to IS 13362 (Textiles - Asbestos yarn).
  • Manufacturing must follow safety standards for asbestos handling: IS 11451, IS 11767, IS 11768, IS 11770 (Part 3), IS 12078, IS 12079, IS 12080.
  • Sampling and inspection per IS 7639.

This ensures fire blankets are durable, heat-resistant, and safe to manufacture with controlled asbestos exposure.

?What are the required dimensions and tolerances for fire blankets as per this standard?

As per IS 15381 (2003), the required dimensions and tolerances for fire blankets are:

  • Size: 1.8 m × 1.8 m (square)
  • Material: Cloth asbestos with yarn conforming to IS 13362
  • Thickness: 1.6 mm for cloth asbestos and tape/web asbestos used in loops
  • Loops and Stitching: Made from asbestos tape/web or cloth (1.6 mm thick) and asbestos sewing thread as per Annex A & B

Key points on workmanship:

  • The blanket must be free from spinning, weaving, and stitching defects.
  • Manufacturing should follow good practice ensuring durability and safety.

Summary Table:

ParameterSpecification
Dimensions1.8 m × 1.8 m
MaterialCloth asbestos (IS 13362)
Thickness1.6 mm
LoopsAsbestos tape/web or cloth, 1.6 mm thick
StitchingAsbestos sewing thread
TolerancesAs per good manufacturing practice (no specific numeric tolerance stated)

For safety and quality, sampling and inspection follow IS 7639.

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This ensures the fire blanket meets functional and safety requirements as per IS 15381.

?How should the stitching and loops be constructed on the fire blanket?

According to IS 15381, the stitching and loops on the fire blanket should be constructed as follows:

Loops Construction (Clause 4.2)

  • Two loops, 25 mm wide, made either from tape asbestos or by folding 70 mm wide asbestos cloth (cut warp-wise).
  • Fold the 70 mm strip in the middle and top-stitch with two rows of machine stitching.
  • Each loop strip length: 760 mm, with 460 mm forming the loop.
  • Loops sewn on one side of the blanket:
    • One loop placed 630 mm from one corner.
    • The other loop placed 630 mm from the opposite corner.

Stitching Details (Clause 4.3)

  • Stitching must be neat and secure with even tension.
  • Stitch density: 16 to 20 stitches per decimetre.
  • All loose ends must be securely fastened off.

Additional Notes

  • Blanket edges finished with a 25 mm hem.
  • Workmanship must be free from defects (Clause 6).
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This ensures durability and ease of handling during fire emergencies.

?What marking and labeling information must be included on compliant fire blankets?

According to IS 15381 Clause 9.1, each compliant fire blanket must be legibly and indelibly marked with:

  • Nomenclature (product name)
  • Manufacturer's name
  • Year of manufacture
  • Pictorial warning sign as specified in IS 12081 (Parts 1 and 2)

Additionally, per Clause 9.2, the fire blanket may also bear the BIS Certification Mark indicating conformity to the standard.

Summary of Marking Requirements:

Marking ItemDescription
NomenclatureProduct name (e.g., Fire Blanket)
Manufacturer's NameName of the producing company
Year of ManufactureYear when the blanket was made
Pictorial WarningAs per IS 12081 Parts 1 & 2 (safety symbols)
BIS Mark (optional)Certification mark for standard compliance

This ensures traceability, safety awareness, and compliance verification.

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?What health and safety recommendations are provided for handling asbestos during manufacturing?

Health and Safety Recommendations for Handling Asbestos in Manufacturing (IS 15381)

IS 15381 references several IS codes specifically addressing health and safety during asbestos handling:

  • Personal Protection: As per IS 12078:1987, workers must use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators, gloves, and protective clothing to minimize asbestos dust exposure.

  • Control of Emission: IS 11770 (Part 3):1987 recommends controlling asbestos dust emissions via proper ventilation and dust suppression techniques in manufacturing premises.

  • Premises Cleaning: IS 11767:1986 advises regular cleaning protocols to prevent asbestos dust accumulation.

  • Waste Disposal: IS 11768:1986 provides guidelines for safe disposal of asbestos waste to avoid environmental contamination.

  • Ventilation: IS 12080:1987 specifies local exhaust ventilation systems to capture airborne asbestos fibers at the source.

  • Warning Signs: IS 12081 (Parts 1 & 2):1987 mandates pictorial warning signs in asbestos handling areas.

Summary Table: Key IS Codes for Asbestos Safety

AspectIS CodeKey Focus
Personal ProtectionIS 12078:1987PPE for workers
Dust Emission ControlIS 11770 (Part 3)Emission control in premises
CleaningIS 11767:1986Cleaning of asbestos premises
Waste DisposalIS 11768:1986Safe asbestos waste disposal
VentilationIS 12080:1987Local exhaust ventilation
Warning SignsIS 12081 (Parts 1 & 2)Pictorial warnings

Best Practices:

  • Use respiratory protection and protective clothing.
  • Implement local exhaust ventilation near asbestos handling points.
  • Conduct regular cleaning using wet methods or vacuum systems with HEPA filters.
  • Ensure proper labeling and signage in asbestos areas.
  • Follow safe disposal procedures to prevent fiber release.
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