This International Standard specifies a general laboratory test method for determination of the area-specific emission rate of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and/or the vapour-phase VOC concentration under defined climate conditions. This International Standard describes emission test chambers used for the determination of the emission of volatile organic compounds from resilient, textile and laminate floor coverings. A description of an emission test chamber is given in Annex A. Annex B provides details of the evaluation systems used in Europe and North America, respectively. Studies of the emission of volatile organic compounds from unused (pre-installation) floor covering products in test chambers require proper handling of the product prior to testing, and during the testing period. For each type of floor covering product, specifications are given for the sampling procedures, transport conditions and storage parameters that can affect emissions of volatile organic compounds. For each type of floor covering product, the preparation of a test specimen is prescribed. NOTE Depending on the non-homogeneity of the product, it can be necessary to make measurements on multiple test specimens from the same sample in order to determine the specific emission rate.