This standard specifies the physical and chemical characteristics of a hand cleaner being used with or without water.

Hand cleaners produced to this standard are intended to remove heavy soilings such as oil, grease, grime, fresh paint, etc., from the skin. Excess soiling should be removed from the hands by wiping before applying the cleaner. It is also recommended that the skin of the user should be thoroughly washed as soon as possible, when released soiling and cleaner is wiped off with paper towels or cloths. Residues of soiling, soaps, solvents, detergents, etc., left on the skin for any significant length of time can irritate the skin. In areas where contamination from abrasive particles may cause problems the use of class B abrasive hand cleaner shall be restricted.

The testing and evaluation of a product against this standard may require the use of materials and/or equipment that could be hazardous. This document does not purport to address all the safety aspects associated with its use. Anyone using this standard has the responsibility to consult the appropriate authorities and to establish appropriate health and safety practices in conjunction with any existing applicable regulatory requirements prior to its use.

Time-dated standard