Marine immersion label testing (BS 5609)

Pira testing marine immersionBritish Standard BS 5609 is a specification for printed pressure-sensitive, adhesive coated labels for marine use which includes requirements for the label base material.

BS 5609 testing is a requirement for self adhesive drum labels needing International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) certification. Testing includes a 3 month exposure of labelled test plates in salt water at mid-tide.

Related pages

  • Light fastness testing
  • Peel testing
  • Salt spray testing

Related information

  • Why do labels need to be tested to BS 5609?

    Labels are typically used for identification, warning and instruction applied to drums containing chemicals. BS 5609 sets out various durability criteria including adhesive performance, print permanence and abrasion resistance, stipulating minimum standards for labels to be used in "Marine Environments".
    Document Type: PDF PDF | 119KB

Expert Profile

  • Maggie is Principal Consultant for Print and Document Security and has over 30 years experience in the print industry with a broad knowledge of printing, finishing, foil blocking, inks and coatings. Experienced in problem solving and mediating in resolution of print-related issues. Maggie is also secretary of the Associates of Print and Paper Technologists (APPT).

    Maggie Carnegie
    Maggie Carnegie

    Pira International

    +44(0)1372 802158

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