1.1This specification describes requirements for a tube that measures the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). ESR is the suspension stability of red cells in diluted, anti-coagulated human blood.
1.1.1The use of the term “rate” is, strictly speaking, not correct. The test measures the amount of settling of red cells after a specified time.
1.2The tubes are used together with a special rack to ensure they remain in a vertical position during the test.
1.3This specification includes many dimensional requirements that are, for the most part, in agreement with the British Standards Institution, German Standards Institute, International Committee for Standardization in Haematology, and the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards publications on Westergren tubes. The clinical procedure using the tube described in this specification is known as the “Westergren Method.”
1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5This 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.
1.6This 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.