1.1This test method covers an immunological method known as an immunoenzymetric assay to quantify the amount of 4 principal Hevea brasiliensis [Hev b] allergenic proteins [Hev b 1, Hev b 3, Hev b 5 and Hev b 6.02] in Hevea natural rubber and its products2 derived from latex using monoclonal antibodies specific for epitopes on these proteins. Since these assays quantify the levels of only 4 of the known 14 officially acknowledged allergens potentially present in Hevea natural rubber latex containing products, the sum of the four allergen levels shall be viewed as an indicator of the allergen burden and not as a measure of the total allergen content that can be released from the product.

1.2For the purpose of this test method, the range of allergenic protein will be measured in terms of nanogram to microgram quantities per gram or unit surface area of a Hevea natural rubber containing product.

1.3The test method is not designed to evaluate the potential of Hevea natural rubber containing materials to induce or elicit Type I (IgE-mediated) hypersensitivity reactions.

1.4This test method should be used under controlled laboratory conditions to detect and quantify the level of 4 allergenic proteins found in Hevea natural rubber containing products. It should not be used to describe, appraise or assess the hazard or risk of these Hevea natural rubber containing materials or products under actual in use conditions.

1.5The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.