Burn Injury Hazard Assessment

Injury and fatality analysis reveals thermal burns account for more than half of the burn injuries to children aged 14 or younger. Many are related to garments.

Intertek's research scientists have undertaken studies of the nature of fabric flammability and its effects on human skin. Our research, in cooperation with The Children’s Hospital, Denver, currently centers on fabric. The Burn Injury Assessment Model (US patent 6,312,155) is capable of providing detailed information regarding the intensity and duration of heat that is transferred to the skin and body by a burning object. Computer modeling of this data, Finite Element analysis, predicts the severity of a burn.

Information about potential burn hazard can be utilized to select safe fabrics or textiles for making garments. The potential to cause burn injuries from playground equipment, household appliances, and other consumer products can be assessed.

How it works: The scope of this research goes beyond regulatory flame resistant properties to measuring the amount of heat the burning fabric releases to underlying human skin. Pediatric experts assisted Intertek in understanding the skin damage caused by certain levels of heat. Using the Intertek Burn Injury Assessment Model, medical research findings are correlated with fabric test data to estimate the severity of burns. The model provides manufacturers with a tool to develop safer fabrics and textiles for their product lines.

Request more information to see how Intertek can help your organization with Burn Injury Hazard Assessment.