Foreword

Publishing information

This British Standard is published by BSI Standards Limited, under licence from The British Standards Institution, and came into effect on 30 November 2018. It was prepared by Panel CH/205/1, Medical textiles, under the authority of Technical Committee CH/205, Non-active medical devices. A list of organizations represented on these committees can be obtained on request to their secretary.

Supersession

This British Standard supersedes BS 6612:1985, BS 7563:1999 and BS, 7672:1993 which are withdrawn.

Information about this document

This British Standard is a merger of BS 6612:1985, BS 7563:1999 and BS 7672:1993 and introduces the following principal changes.

• It comprises separate sections specifying performance requirements for graduated compression hosiery (Section 2), anti-embolism hosiery (Section 3) and graduated support hosiery (Section 4).
• Section 2 includes guidance detailing the use of graduated compression hosiery (flight socks) for people at moderate-high risk of developing travel-related deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• Performance requirements have been updated to reflect current clinical guidance and a new annex added (Annex D) which explains the variety of classes and compression profiles used in the UK.
• Annex A specifies a unified method of test for compression value and stiffness of compression/support hosiery using a Mark II HATRA Hosiery Pressure Tester, based on the three previously published methods.
• Annex B specifies a method for determining the heel position of non-prescriptive thigh length stockings and tights that do not possess a reciprocated heel.
• Annex C has been added to provide the rationale for the major changes made as part of the revision.
• Annex D has been included to provide information on various pressure classes referenced in national and industry standards and clinical guidance documents.

Compliance with this British Standard cannot be used to claim compliance with other national standards (e.g. AFNOR G 30.102, DIN 58133) as these have different test methods and performance requirements.

Hazard warnings

WARNING. This British Standard calls for the use of substances and/or procedures that can be injurious to health if adequate precautions are not taken. It refers only to technical suitability and does not absolve the user from legal obligations relating to health and safety at any stage.

Presentational conventions

The provisions of this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright) type. Its requirements are expressed in sentences in which the principal auxiliary verb is “shall”.

Commentary, explanation and general informative material is presented in smaller italic type, and does not constitute a normative element.

Where words have alternative spellings, the preferred spelling of the Shorter Oxford English Dictionary is used (e.g. “organization” rather than “organisation”).

Requirements in this standard are drafted in accordance with Rules for the structure and drafting of UK standards, subclause J.1.1, which states, “Requirements should be expressed using wording such as: ‘When tested as described in Annex A, the product shall ...’”. This means that only those products that are capable of passing the specified test will be deemed to conform to this standard.

Contractual and legal considerations

This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.

Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from legal obligations.

BS 661210:2018

Graduated compression hosiery, anti-embolism hosiery and graduated support hosiery. Specification

Published:

30 Nov 2018

Withdrawn:

16 Sep 2021