About HS Code 681291
This HS code covers clothing, clothing accessories, footwear, and headgear made from asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite), whether or not reinforced, and not falling under headings 6811 or 6813. Historically, asbestos was used in protective clothing due to its excellent fire-resistant and insulating properties, particularly for firefighters, industrial workers, and in specific high-heat environments. However, similar to other asbestos-containing products, international trade in these items is now heavily restricted or banned in most countries due to the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure. This code represents a legacy category, as modern protective gear utilizes safer, high-performance alternative materials like aramid fibers, fiberglass, or specialized ceramics. Any remaining legal trade would be extremely rare and subject to stringent national and international regulations, primarily for historical artifacts or specific, highly controlled industrial applications where no viable alternative exists and strict safety protocols are in place. The global trend is to eliminate all asbestos-based products from the market.
Products Under This Code
Asbestos fire proximity suits, asbestos gloves, asbestos aprons, asbestos boots, asbestos hoods, asbestos blankets (personal protective), asbestos leggings
Real World Examples
Historical fire-fighting gear, industrial protective wear from the mid-20th century (no current brands actively trading)
Common Misclassification
This code is specific to asbestos-based *clothing* and accessories, excluding crocidolite (681280) and articles of 6811 or 6813. It should not be confused with modern, non-asbestos protective clothing (e.g., aramid fibers).
Products Classified Under 6812.91
Trade Overview
Trade in asbestos-based clothing and accessories is almost entirely banned worldwide, with modern safety standards mandating the use of non-asbestos alternatives for protective gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 681291?
HS code 681291 covers: Asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite); clothing, clothing accessories, footwear and headgear, whether or not reinforced, not goods of heading 6811 or 6813. This HS code covers clothing, clothing accessories, footwear, and headgear made from asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite), whether or not reinforced, and not falling under headings 6811 or 6813. Historically, asbestos was used in protective clothing due to its excellent fire-resistant and insulating properties, particularly for firefighters, industrial workers, and in specific high-heat environments. However, similar to other asbestos-containing products, international trade in these items is now heavily restricted or banned in most countries due to the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure. This code represents a legacy category, as modern protective gear utilizes safer, high-performance alternative materials like aramid fibers, fiberglass, or specialized ceramics. Any remaining legal trade would be extremely rare and subject to stringent national and international regulations, primarily for historical artifacts or specific, highly controlled industrial applications where no viable alternative exists and strict safety protocols are in place. The global trend is to eliminate all asbestos-based products from the market.
What products fall under HS code 681291?
Asbestos fire proximity suits, asbestos gloves, asbestos aprons, asbestos boots, asbestos hoods, asbestos blankets (personal protective), asbestos leggings
What are common misclassifications for HS code 681291?
This code is specific to asbestos-based *clothing* and accessories, excluding crocidolite (681280) and articles of 6811 or 6813. It should not be confused with modern, non-asbestos protective clothing (e.g., aramid fibers).
How is HS code 681291 structured?
HS code 681291 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (68) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.