What is EN ISO 13688:2018

EN ISO 13688:2018 is an international standard that outlines the general requirements for protective clothing. This standard specifies the minimum performance requirements and test methods for protective clothing to ensure its effectiveness in terms of protection from various risks.

Scope and Application

The scope of EN ISO 13688:2018 applies to all types of protective clothing, including garments designed to protect against mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrical, and biological hazards.

This standard is applicable to protective clothing used in a wide range of industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, emergency services, and more.

Key Requirements

EN ISO 13688:2018 sets out key requirements that protective clothing should meet to provide adequate protection:

Size and Fit: The clothing should be designed to ensure proper fit, allowing ease of movement for the wearer, without compromising the protective function.

Design and Construction: Protective clothing should be well-designed and constructed, taking into account the specific hazards it is intended to guard against. It should have appropriate fastenings, closures, and reinforcements for durability.

Material Quality: The materials used in the production of the clothing should be of high quality and suitable for their intended purpose, ensuring protection against the identified risks.

Marking and Information: Protective clothing should be adequately marked with relevant information, such as manufacturer details, CE marking, and care instructions. Warnings or precautions related to the garment's use may also be provided.

Testing and Certification

To ensure compliance with EN ISO 13688:2018, protective clothing must undergo rigorous testing and certification procedures.

Testing methods may include assessing the clothing's resistance to abrasion, tear, puncture, heat, flame, chemicals, and other relevant parameters depending on the intended use.

The certification process involves an independent body evaluating whether the clothing meets the requirements of the standard. Once certified, the garment will bear a mark indicating compliance.

Conclusion

EN ISO 13688:2018 serves as an essential guideline in the development and selection of protective clothing. It helps ensure that the clothing you rely on for protection offers the necessary levels of performance and safety.

By adhering to this standard, manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users can have confidence that their protective clothing is fit for purpose and provides adequate protection against potential hazards.