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DuPont recommends that uncontaminated Tychem® brand garments more than five years old be used for training. Under proper storage conditions, there is no evidence to indicate that Tychem® fabrics lose their protective characteristics or physical properties in five years. This observation is based on testing of “naturally aged” Tychem® fabrics for more than ten years. To project shelf life durability, Tychem® fabrics were exposed to an accelerated thermal and oxidative atmosphere in a pressurized vessel. The testing was conducted in a manner similar to that described in test method ASTM 573-88; the exceptions to the method were a higher temperature (100° C vs. 70°C) and pressure (300 psi vs. 100 psi) than specified. The results of these accelerated aging tests have been compared to the physical properties of fabrics retained for more than 10 years. Based on the results of the accelerated aging test, the projected shelf life of Tychem® materials is more than five years, as long as the material is not stored in sunlight or in excessive heat (>40° C). However other materials used in chemical protective garments, such as gloves, closures, zippers, face shields, and flaps in exhaust valves are often made of materials for which there is no comparable shelf life information and therefore, may have shorter shelf storage times than the Tychem® brand materials.
DuPont™ Tychem® garments, contain materials for which there is no specific shelf life data available. This includes gloves, zippers and other trim components. It is recommended that garments be labeled and retired to "Training Use Only" after five years. The five year timing begins at the point the end-user receives the garment.
We recommend that these garments be retired every five years. However, garments may remain fully functional well beyond five years if properly stored. Garments may be used as long as they pass the ASTM F1052-97 inflation test and pass a full visual inspection. The intent of the recommendation is to make the end-user aware that these garments do not have an infinite life span. These garments must be checked on a routine basis. It is the responsibility of the end-user to determine if the garment is fit for use.
Among the items to consider in a visual inspection are odors, discoloration, cracks, delamination, stiffness, holes, punctures, rips, tears, or any other indication of fabrics, seam or garment damage that would diminish the integrity and protectiveness of the garment. It is suggested that downgrading the suit to “Training Use Only” be considered when the suit no longer passes the visual inspection and/or pressure test. A suit that is suspected or known to be contaminated should be discarded and not reused. Discarded suits should be mutilated in a manner that prevents reuse, such as cutting off a sleeve, leg or cutting the suit into several pieces.
In addition, please understand that all Tychem® garments should be inspected. Garment inspection is important. It ensures that the integrity of the garment has been maintained. The first inspection should be performed immediately upon receipt in order to ensure no damage occurred during shipping. Annual follow-up inspection is also recommended for garments in storage. Contaminated, damaged or altered Tychem® garments should not be used.
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