EN classifications are a system for assessing and classifying the performance of protective clothing within the EU. This means that workwear must meet certain safety requirements and that the user receives the correct level of protection for their job.
The purpose of EN classifications? To create common minimum requirements for workwear across Europe. The standard sets clear criteria that protective clothing must meet in various risk environments.
The classifications help employers find the right protection for the right task. They clearly indicate what level of protection a garment provides against, for example, flames, chemicals, or poor visibility.
The system uses numbers: the higher the class, the better the protection. Class 3 is usually the highest and provides the best protection within most standards.
It actually becomes quite easy to compare products in this way, even if everything isn’t always black and white.
The EU has established regulations for personal protective equipment and requires that protective clothing be tested by independent parties before it can be sold. Garments that pass the tests receive CE marking.
There is a difference between standard and certification. The EN standard sets the basic requirements, while certification shows that a third party has actually verified that the product meets the standards.
Manufacturers must document all tests and quality controls. The CE marking is a sort of guarantee that the product complies with EU safety regulations.
EN classifications are displayed as symbols and numbers on the clothing labels. Each symbol represents a specific type of protection, and the class number indicates the level.
You will always find the EN standard number, for example, EN ISO 20471 for high-visibility clothing. Following that is the class designation that shows the level of protection.
The labels are usually located on the inside of the garment, protected from wear but still easy to read. They also indicate how the garment should be maintained to ensure the protection lasts over time.
There are several central EN standards that govern how protective clothing should perform and what they must withstand in various risk environments.
EN ISO 20471 sets the minimum requirements for high-visibility clothing, meaning clothing that makes you visible when it is dangerous not to be. The standard ensures that people can be detected both day and night, even when headlights are shining.
High-visibility clothing is divided into three classes, depending on how much fluorescent and reflective material the garment has:
Each class has requirements for how large and where the visible areas should be. Class 3 provides maximum visibility and is used where it is most dangerous.
EN 14126 applies to protective clothing against biological particles and microorganisms. The standard describes test methods and material requirements that must protect against infectious substances.
The protection levels are determined by how well the material resists penetration by biological substances. This involves protection against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other health hazards.
Such clothing is primarily used in healthcare, laboratories, and similar environments where there is a risk of exposure to biological hazards.
EN 13034 is for clothing with limited protection against liquid chemicals. It applies to Type 6 garments that protect against splashes and aerosols, but not against gases or vapors.
The materials are tested for chemical resistance using various methods. The standard also sets requirements for how seams and closures should be constructed.
Type 6 clothing is used when handling less hazardous chemicals or as an additional layer over other equipment.
EN 1149 concerns antistatic clothing – that is, garments that counteract static electricity in environments where sparks can be life-threatening.
The tests measure, among other things, surface resistance and how quickly the charge dissipates from the garment. The material must have certain electrical properties, and often antistatic fibers are woven into the fabric.
This clothing is important in industries such as petroleum and chemical manufacturing, where static electricity can be directly dangerous.
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The material and level of protection you need depend on the risks present in the workplace. Different hazards require clothing with specific properties and certifications according to the appropriate EN standard.
Clothing designed to protect against dirt and dust must stop fine particles while still being reasonably comfortable to wear. Cotton and polyester-cotton blends work quite well for basic dust protection.
Tightly woven fabrics with a smooth surface are good because they prevent dust from sticking as easily. This also makes the garments easier to clean.
Key Material Properties:
In environments with very fine particles, clothing that meets EN ISO 13982-1 is required. These are tested against dry particles and classified as type 5 protection.
Splash protection requires materials that are water-repellent or waterproof, depending on how much liquid one might encounter. Laminated or coated materials provide good protection against liquid-based splashes.
PVC-coated cotton fabrics offer a good balance between protection and comfort, especially for painters. The material must withstand the types of paint and solvents used.
Material Choices for Different Types of Splashes:
Seams and closures should be sealed or welded to prevent anything from penetrating. EN 13034 (type 6) sets the requirements for limited splash protection.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals and radioactive particles requires specialized protective clothing certified according to specific EN standards. The material is chosen based on the type and concentration of the chemical.
Type 3 and 4 clothing (EN 14605) protects against liquid chemicals in jet or spray form. Multilayer or coated materials are used, focusing on permeation resistance.
For radioactive particles, disposable clothing made of polyethylene or Tyvek is common, as it reduces the risk of contamination. The material should ideally be antistatic and resist particle penetration.
Chemical-resistant materials:
Permeation tests according to EN 16523-1 help determine which material actually protects against a specific chemical.
Protective coveralls are classified according to EN standards, where the level of protection and intended use guide the choice. Accessories such as respirators and protective hoods complement the overall protection.
Many manufacturers, such as 3M, offer robust product lines with certified solutions for various risks.
Protective coveralls are divided into six main types according to EN standards. Each type corresponds to a certain level of protection against chemicals and particles.
Type 1 and Type 2 provide the highest protection against gases and vapors. Type 1 coveralls are gas-tight and used when handling very hazardous chemicals.
Type 3 and Type 4 protect against liquid chemicals. Type 3 can withstand chemicals under pressure, while type 4 resists splashes and sprays.
Type 5 and Type 6 are the most common in the industry. Type 5/6 coveralls protect against particles (type 5) and certain chemical exposure (type 6).
They are often used in construction and remediation. EN 14126 adds protection against biological agents.
3M has several established models of protective coveralls, with varying levels of protection and comfort.
3M Protective Coverall 4540 is type 4/5/6 and covers a wide range of chemical protection. The material is breathable but still stops particles and lighter chemicals.
3M Protective Coverall 4510 is a simple type 5/6 coverall. It works for dust, fibers, and lighter chemicals.
Protective Coverall Basic 4500 is 3M's budget variant. It is best suited for short jobs where the risk is low.
Protective Coverall 4600 type 5/6 is designed for longer shifts and has reinforcements in extra vulnerable areas. The ergonomics are actually quite good here.
Complementary equipment is crucial for complete protection.
Respirators are chosen based on the type of exposure and concentration. Half masks with P3 filters are suitable for particle exposure, but full masks are required for gases. Powered air purifiers are comfortable for longer tasks.
Spray hoods cover the head and neck against chemicals and particles. They can be combined with respirators and are often used during spray work.
3M Protective Hood 446 is a well-known solution in this category. It is approved according to relevant EN standards and works with various respirators.
It is essential to achieve the right fit and compatibility between different parts. Otherwise, it can become both uncomfortable and unsafe.
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Today, traditional materials such as cotton are mixed with modern synthetic solutions and smart laminates. Many companies are also looking for Swedish-manufactured and more sustainable alternatives.
Cotton is still a classic in workwear due to its breathability and comfort. It is actually quite pleasant during long shifts.
Synthetic materials such as polyester and polyamide provide better durability and effectively transport moisture. They retain their shape after many washes and dry quickly.
Material combinations are often used:
Reinforcements of polyamide at the knees and elbows are also common. This ensures that the garments last longer without becoming stiff.
SMS laminate consists of three layers: spunbond-meltblown-spunbond. This provides excellent protection against both particles and liquids.
The technology enables type 5 and 6 certification according to EN standards. SMS laminate stops solid particles and some chemical splashes, yet remains breathable.
The advantages are numerous:
SMS laminate is primarily used in disposable coveralls for industry, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. It meets most certification requirements without making the garments bulky.
Swedish-manufactured workwear adheres to strict environmental and quality standards, often higher than international standards. Domestic production reduces transportation and provides better working conditions.
Sustainable materials can include recycled polyester from plastic bottles or organic cotton. These alternatives maintain the same certification levels as traditional materials.
Life cycle analysis shows that high-quality garments last longer and reduce environmental impact. A Swedish-made garment that lasts twice as long is actually more environmentally friendly, even if it costs more upfront.
Several Swedish manufacturers are investing in circular solutions where old garments are recycled into new products. This minimizes both waste and resource consumption.
Choosing the right EN-classified workwear requires an honest risk assessment in the workplace. Comfort and functionality affect both safety and willingness to work.
Combination certification can sometimes provide higher protection through smart layering.
The risks in the workplace dictate which EN classification is required. For high-visibility clothing according to EN ISO 20471, the environment determines whether it will be class 1, 2, or 3.
Class 1 is used where the risk is low. Class 2 is suitable for ports, railways, construction, and parking lots. Class 3 is required where traffic is fast or risks are greater.
It is the amount of reflective and fluorescent material that determines the classification. The higher the class, the more visible material – seems quite logical anyway.
The employer must conduct a risk assessment. Factors such as vehicle speed, light, and distance to risk zones influence the choice.
The EN labeling shows what requirements the garment meets and what it is suitable for.
Comfortable protective clothing increases the likelihood that it will actually be used correctly. If the garments fit poorly or are impractical, they are easily neglected.
Ergonomic requirements according to EN standards ensure that the clothing does not restrict movement. The right size is crucial – too small garments can gap or hinder movement, while too large can get caught in machinery.
The choice of material also affects how well the garment breathes and regulates temperature. If working physically, clothing that transports moisture away is needed.
Features such as pockets, reinforcements, and adjustments make the garments more useful. Manufacturers must adhere to ergonomic requirements and provide clear maintenance instructions.
Good maintenance extends the protection and lifespan of the clothing.
Individual garments can be combined to achieve higher protection classes than what each part provides individually. But it is not just a matter of mixing and matching – the combination itself must be certified for it to count.
Selected upper and lower parts from different manufacturers have been combined and certified according to specific systems. These garments receive special codes that indicate exactly which combinations are approved.
Key Principles for Combinations:
Combination certification is based on the garments being used exactly as the manufacturer specifies. If one part is replaced with something that is not certified, then the entire protection can be lost.
Management must ensure that staff are aware of which combinations are applicable and why it is not appropriate to improvise.
Different jobs require different protection levels, depending on the risks present in the workplace. EN standards set clear classifications so that people receive the right protection for the right job.
The protection levels in EN standards are intended to match the risks out there. Each classification entails specific performance requirements that the garment must meet.
Type 4 Cat 1 is used for chemical protective equipment and implies limited protection time against certain chemicals. Here, the user must consider the risks and choose suitable protection.
EN standards categorize protection levels based on:
The wrong protection level can provide inadequate protection or make the job bulkier than necessary. It is essential to find a balance between safety and agility.
Different industries have their own rules for protective clothing, depending on the risks present. The construction industry, for example, often requires high-visibility clothing class 3 for work near fast traffic.
The industry uses chemical protective clothing according to different types:
| Industry | Protection Level | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Industry | Type 3-4 | Chemical resistance |
| Construction Sites | Class 2-3 high visibility | Visibility and reflective material |
| Welding Industry | EN ISO 11611 | Heat and spark protection |
The logistics industry prioritizes high-visibility clothing class 2 for warehouse jobs where vehicles are moving. The requirement is at least 0.50 m² of fluorescent material and 0.13 m² of reflective material.
The food industry focuses on hygiene, but also protection against chemicals and liquids. The garments must withstand high washing temperatures and be resistant to cleaning agents.
EN standards set the framework for safety requirements and test methods for workwear. Protection classes vary depending on the level of risk and work area, and sometimes the standards change as technology advances.
EN standards are European regulations that determine safety requirements for workwear and protective equipment. They describe test methods and performance requirements that the clothing must meet to be called approved protective garments.
The standards cover various risk areas at work. EN ISO 20471 governs high-visibility clothing for visibility near traffic, while EN ISO 11612 deals with protection against fire and heat for electricians and industrial workers.
Protection classes are based on risk level and how much exposure there is to various hazards. Each standard has its own system with numbers that indicate the level of protection.
Higher numbers usually mean better protection against what is specified. The employer must match the protection class to the risks present in the workplace.
EN 342 applies to protection against cold and is used where temperatures are low. This concerns insulation and how much air can pass through the garment.
EN 343 is for protection against rain and is used when it is wet and rough. The focus is on waterproofing and ensuring that the garment allows vapor to escape so that one does not get wet from the inside.
Certified workwear has the EN standard number on the label. The CE marking indicates that the garment complies with European safety requirements and has been properly tested.
The manufacturer should also have technical documentation showing which standards the product meets. Often, there is third-party certification from accredited testing institutes that confirms everything is in order.
EN ISO 11612 is the most important standard for protection against fire and heat in the industry. It is suitable for electricians and industrial workers who risk sparks and short bursts of heat.
EN ISO 11611 applies to protective clothing for welding and similar jobs. However, it is not intended for firefighters – there are specific standards required for tougher and longer exposure to fire and heat.
EN standards are reviewed regularly to keep up with both technological development and new safety requirements. It is European standardization bodies together with industry experts that drive the process.
Typically, the standards are revised approximately every five to ten years, but sometimes it happens faster if technology is advancing rapidly. If new risks emerge or if test methods change, urgent updates can occur much more frequently.
The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and does not replace manufacturer instructions or applicable regulations. Workwise does not guarantee that the content is accurate, complete, or current and is not liable for decisions or actions taken based on this information. Always follow current standards and manufacturer instructions.