This standard establishes a system of classification for protective apparel and drapes used in
health care facilities based on their liquid barrier performance and specifies related labeling
requirements and standardized test methods for determining compliance. By specifying a
consistent basis for testing and labeling protective apparel and drapes and providing a common
understanding of barrier properties (e.g., efficacy against liquid or liquid-borne microorganism
penetration) based on this new classification system, the standard is intended to ultimately assist
end-users in determining the type(s) of protective product most appropriate for a particular task or
situation.