{"id":97597,"date":"2026-11-14T10:43:59","date_gmt":"2026-11-14T09:43:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/work-foxx.com\/?p=97597"},"modified":"2026-11-14T11:03:55","modified_gmt":"2026-11-14T10:03:55","slug":"personal-protective-equipment-standards-a-guide-to-safe-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/work-foxx.com\/en\/personal-protective-equipment-standards-a-guide-to-safe-work\/","title":{"rendered":"Personal Protective Equipment Standards: A Guide to Safe Work"},"content":{"rendered":"

Personal Protective Equipment Standards: A Guide to Safe Work<\/h1>\n
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THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSONAL AND PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS<\/a> THAT COME TO US AT THE WORKPLACE<\/h2>\n

There are many different providers and manufacturers of personal protective equipment on the market. We have also seen in the media many difficulties in checking whether the purchased protective equipment is really of high quality and protects the user as the manufacturer guarantees. The standards for personal protective equipment were set precisely so that buyers of equipment can be sure that the product complies with all established European standards.<\/p>\n

For this purpose, we have prepared this short note, in which we present and describe all the most important standards for equipment and safety at work. Read it to refresh your knowledge, and we recommend that you refer to it every time you purchase new protective and work equipment, thus ensuring the highest level of safety for you and your colleagues.<\/p>\n

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WHAT IS A STANDARD AND WHY DO WE NEED IT?<\/h2>\n

A standard is a document that specifies requirements for a specific product, material, component, system or service and details a specific method or process. Standards facilitate international trade by ensuring compatibility and interoperability of components, products and services. The benefits to businesses and consumers include reduced costs, increased efficiency and improved safety.<\/p>\n

Standards are developed and defined through a process of knowledge sharing and consensus building between technical experts appointed by stakeholders and other interested parties – including businesses, consumers and environmental groups.<\/p>\n

The formal definition of a standard is \u201ca document established by consensus and approved by a recognized body that establishes, for common and repeated use, rules, guidelines, or characteristics for activities or their results intended to achieve an optimal level of order in a given context\u201d.<\/p>\n

EUROPEAN STANDARDS FOR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (EN)<\/h2>\n

European Standards (EN) are documents ratified by one of the three European Standardization Organizations (ESOs), CEN, CENELEC or ETSI; recognized as competent in the field of voluntary technical standardization in accordance with EU Regulation 1025\/2012.<\/p>\n

Although CEN, CENELEC and ETSI deal with different fields of activity, they cooperate in many areas of common interest, such as the machinery sector or information and communication technologies (ICT). They also share common policies on issues on which there is mutual agreement.<\/p>\n

An EN (European Standard) \u201ccarries with it the obligation of implementation at national level by obtaining the status of a national standard and by the withdrawal of any conflicting national standard\u201d. Therefore, a European Standard (EN) automatically becomes a national standard in each of the 34 CEN-CENELEC member countries.<\/p>\n

Standards are voluntary, meaning there is no automatic legal obligation to use them. However, laws and regulations may refer to standards and even make them mandatory.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN ISO 20471 – High visibility clothing<\/a><\/h3>\n

Today, employees in more and more industries are required to wear safety workwear. This is especially true for industries where a lot of work takes place near traffic, cranes and other motor vehicles, as well as work that takes place in the dark. Safety workwear certified to EN ISO 20471 ensures that employees are safe while they focus on their work. Employees will be visible at night, during the day and from all angles, even from behind, where it is impossible to see them. With the right safety workwear to EN ISO 20471, neither reflectors nor fluorescent material will be \u201chidden\u201d in a blind spot.<\/p>\n

EN ISO 20471 is an international standard that sets requirements for high-visibility workwear for employees in high-risk areas. The use of appropriate safety workwear is essential and should be given due attention. Even if work in areas where visibility is important only takes place for a short part of the working day. EN ISO 20471 is divided into three classes depending on the risk area you are working in and how well the product is able to protect the employee. The visibility requirement – and therefore the requirement for the surface area consisting of reflectors and fluorescent materials – is what determines which class you should choose. The table below shows the minimum area covered by reflective tape and fluorescent material in m2.<\/p>\n

EN ISO 20471 CLASSES<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/th>\nClass 1<\/span><\/th>\nClass 2<\/span><\/th>\nClass 3<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Reflective tape<\/span><\/td>\n0.10 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n0.13 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n0.20 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Fluorescent material<\/span><\/td>\n0.14 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n0.50 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n0.80 m\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The highest class is Class 3. There are two ways to achieve Class 3. Choose either an EN ISO 20471 product that is rated as Class 3 on its own (e.g. a jacket) or two products that are certified to Class 3 together (e.g. a jacket + work trousers). This will ensure that employees always have the appropriate safety class.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN 342 – Protection against cold<\/h3>\n

Clothing certified according to EN 342:2017 will definitely protect you well from the cold. Choosing the right clothing is essential when working in cold environments, as it is important to stay protected and warm. A cold environment is considered to be a temperature of -5\u00b0C or lower, measured not only based on the air temperature, but also by taking into account humidity and wind.<\/p>\n

If it is very windy, you may need a higher level of insulation, even if the actual temperature remains the same. It is important that your work clothing stays dry, as its protective ability can be reduced when it gets wet. To improve protection against the cold and prevent local chills, it is also important to wear warm clothing and footwear on your arms and legs, as well as warm headgear. It is also important that your clothing is zipped and tightly fastened around openings, such as the wrists.<\/p>\n

To avoid local hypothermia, you will also need to wear gloves, a hat, etc. Each individual product is classified according to different values: thermal insulation value (Y), air permeability level (AP) and, where applicable, water resistance (WP).<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN 343 – Protection against rain and moisture<\/a><\/h3>\n

Workwear certified to EN 343 protects against rain, allows the skin to breathe and wicks moisture away from the body. We often come across two versions of this standard. Both versions certify workwear for its ability to withstand high water pressure and breathability.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN 343:2019<\/h3>\n

If you work outdoors in all weather conditions, it is essential that you are properly dressed. The EN 343:2019 standard has three values \u200b\u200bthat indicate the level of protection the user receives when wearing the product. The first value indicates the waterproofness of the product, while the second value refers to the breathability of the entire product. Both values \u200b\u200bare rated on a scale of 1-4, with 4 being the highest value. The third value is marked with an R or X. R means that the product has been tested in a downpour. This test is not mandatory for the standard. X is the value given if the product has not undergone this test.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN 343<\/h3>\n

This version has two values \u200b\u200bthat you can refer to. The first value indicates the overall waterproofness of the product, and the second value indicates its overall breathability. Both values \u200b\u200bare rated on a scale of 1-3, with 3 being the highest value. Products certified to EN 343 are also tested for, among other things, tear resistance and stretchability, with the different layers of the product being tested for their ability to retain their shape after repeated use.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN ISO 11611 – Welding protection<\/a><\/h3>\n

EN ISO 11611 describes the minimum requirements for work clothing that protects the wearer from short-term welding or similar processes with corresponding risks.<\/p>\n

Safety clothing certified to EN ISO 11611 protects the wearer against sparks and short-circuits. It must also reduce the risk of electric shock due to short, unintentional contact with electrical conductors. Work clothing must cover the entire body to provide the worker with optimal protection. This is achieved by using a jacket and suitable trousers. When using welding techniques that produce a lot of sparks, we recommend using additional protection for the head, hands and front of the clothing. To avoid sparks burning on the work clothing, safety clothing certified to EN ISO 11611 has only a minimum number of pockets and other features to prevent sparks from getting stuck.<\/p>\n

EN ISO 11611 CLASSES<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n
EN ISO 11611 – class 1<\/span><\/td>\nEN ISO 11611 – class 2<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Protection from less hazardous welding techniques and situations that cause fewer sparks and thermal radiation.<\/span><\/td>\nProtection in situations that pose additional risk, where the possibility of sparks and thermal radiation is significantly greater.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS – EN ISO 11612 and 14116 – Protection against heat and fire<\/h3>\n

We know of two certificates that provide protection against heat and fire.<\/p>\n

The EN ISO 11612 standard certifies clothing made of material intended to protect the wearer’s body from heat and\/or fire. With the exception of hoods certified to EN ISO 11612, this standard does not cover products that provide protection for the head, hands, etc. For exposed areas, we recommend the use of additional protection. Safety clothing certified to EN ISO 11612 is suitable for industrial workers, electricians, etc.<\/p>\n

The EN ISO 14116 standard specifies protective clothing, materials and material compositions with limited flame spread. Protective clothing certified to EN ISO 14116 protects the wearer against short-term, unintentional contact with heat or sparks. For longer exposure to heat, additional protection is required. Workwear certified to EN ISO 14116 reduces the likelihood that protective clothing will ignite and pose a hazard to the wearer.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0IEC 61482-2 – Protection against thermal hazards associated with electric shock<\/h3>\n

Products certified according to IEC 61482-2 provide users with various forms of protection against thermal hazards due to electric arcs.<\/p>\n

Clothing certified to IEC 61482-2 protects against thermal hazards associated with electric shock. During an arc, clothing may be exposed to flames, radiation and metal gels from the electrodes, so it is important to wear appropriate clothing. Your clothing should have sufficient insulation to protect against flames and metal shrapnel, as well as to protect against intense heat and the risk of second-degree burns.<\/p>\n

For optimal protection, work clothing should cover the entire body. To ensure adequate protection, jackets and trousers should be worn together with other items of protective equipment, such as a hard hat with face shield, protective gloves and protective footwear. You can also use multiple layers for a higher level of protection. For example, you will be even better protected if you wear fire-resistant underwear under your flame-retardant clothing.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0EN 1149-3 \/ 5 – Protection against electric shock<\/h3>\n

EN 1149-3 and EN 1149-5 certificates ensure safety against electric shock.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0EN 1149-3: 2004 – electrical discharge<\/h3>\n

This standard specifies requirements for workwear that is tested for its ability to dissipate electrostatic charges from the surface of the garment material. The standard confirms that the safety clothing has been tested for its ability to discharge electrostatic charges into the air and therefore will not transfer them to the wearer.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0EN 1149-5: 2008 – design and material properties<\/h3>\n

This standard describes the requirements for the electrostatic properties of protective clothing used in areas where there is a risk of sudden electrostatic discharge. The test method for EN 1149-5:2008 specifies the requirements for the materials and design of protective clothing with electrostatic properties.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0EN 13034 – Protection against liquid chemicals<\/h3>\n

EN 13034 \/ EN 13034 + A1 provides limited protection against small amounts and splashes of liquid chemicals (Type 6 and Type PB [6] equipment). Protective clothing with this certification is suitable for use in areas where there is a risk of exposure to small splashes of chemicals, but where full body protection is not required. Protective clothing with the EN 13034 certification is suitable for use in areas where there is a risk of exposure to small amounts of chemicals. Remove protective clothing promptly if it has been exposed to chemicals.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS –\u00a0EN 13758-2 UPF 40+ – Protection against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays<\/h3>\n

EN 13758-2 is a standard for products that protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Garments certified to this standard are marked with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF value), which indicates the level of protection. The level of protection depends on several factors, including the thickness, density and colour of the fabric. However, the protective effect of the fabric is affected by wear and tear and the stretching of the garment. Wearing garments certified to 13578-2 reduces the risk of skin damage from the sun’s rays.<\/p>\n

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARDS; WORK FOOTWEAR<\/h2>\n

Because we strive to provide complete safety, you will find safety footwear with us that is certified according to various safety classes. The safety class depends on the level of safety properties that the user expects the footwear to meet. In addition to the relevant safety class, all safety footwear is often equipped with anti-slip soles, ergonomic fit, anti-static properties and excellent shock absorption.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN ISO 20345 – STANDARD FOR SAFETY FOOTWEAR<\/a><\/h3>\n

EN ISO 20345 is a European standard for safety footwear that ensures that safety shoes, work shoes and sandals meet the necessary requirements for work in areas where safety is a priority. Safety and work shoes certified to EN ISO 20345 are slip-resistant (SRC) and have an ergonomic fit. The standard covers mechanical risks, slip resistance, thermal risks and ergonomic product behaviour.<\/p>\n

Specific risks are covered by supplementary standards related to workplaces, such as firefighting footwear, electrical insulating footwear, footwear to protect against chainsaw injuries, chemicals, molten metal splashes and protection for motorcycle riders.<\/p>\n

STANDARD EN ISO 20347 – STANDARD FOR WORK SHOES<\/a><\/h3>\n

EN ISO 20347 is a European standard for footwear without a protective toe cap for commercial use. The standard covers footwear with certified slip-resistant properties, which is cushioning, breathable and has a stabilizing sole.<\/p>\n

Specific risks are covered by supplementary standards related to workplaces, such as firefighting footwear, electrical insulating footwear, footwear to protect against chainsaw injuries, chemicals, molten metal splashes and protection for motorcycle riders.<\/p>\n

WORK SHOES SAFETY CLASSES<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
SAFETY CLASS<\/strong><\/td>\nCATEGORY<\/strong><\/td>\nWHO ARE THEY INTENDED FOR?<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S1<\/strong><\/td>\nShoes, sandals and flip-flops. They are not water-repellent.<\/span><\/td>\nIntended for general use at work and in leisure time in dry conditions.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S1P<\/strong><\/td>\nShoes with a midsole and toe cap. They are not water-repellent.<\/span><\/td>\nDesigned for workers who need particularly sturdy footwear for use indoors, in the summer or occasionally outdoors throughout the year.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S2<\/strong><\/td>\nProtective footwear with a toe cap. Water-repellent.<\/span><\/td>\nDesigned for workers who need particularly sturdy footwear with a toe cap, non-slip and antistatic soles and a closed heel. Water-repellent according to EN ISO 20345.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S3<\/strong><\/td>\nWaterproof shoes with a midsole and toe cap.<\/span><\/td>\nOutdoor workers who need particularly sturdy footwear that is also waterproof. The shoes are worn primarily by people who often work on their knees.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S4<\/strong><\/td>\nSafety footwear with non-slip sole and toe cap. Water-repellent according to EN ISO 20345.<\/span><\/td>\nOutdoor workers in demanding conditions who need particularly sturdy footwear that is waterproof and has a non-slip sole.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
S5<\/strong><\/td>\nSafety footwear with nail protection and toe cap. Water-repellent.<\/span><\/td>\nOutdoor workers working in wet and difficult conditions that require additional shoe reinforcements.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The personal protective equipment standards listed in this report cover the most common safety and workwear products. Safety and workwear is divided into other industries that we have not covered, but still have their own standards.<\/p>\n

If you are in an industry that was not covered, you can contact us at any time and we will be happy to help you choose the right clothing, footwear, and other equipment.<\/p>\n

We recommend that you save this report “Personal Protective Equipment Standards” so that you always have it at hand.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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