Standards and labels

• EN 343:2019

  EN 343 is a European standard for protective clothing against bad weather. It says clothes must be waterproof, breathable, and not let water in. It's used to protect workers in different industries like construction and transportation. Tests must show the clothing meets these standards.

  Test results

  Waterproofness Class 3

  EN 343:2019 is designed to ensure that protective clothing provides specific levels of protection against rain, considering its waterproof capabilities. Class 3 in this standard represents the highest level of waterproofness, indicating that the garment successfully resists a high volume of water penetration (more than 13000 Pascal Pressure units after pre-treatment). The test method used involves simulating wet weather conditions, where the fabric is exposed to varying degrees of water projections and pressures to evaluate its resistance. Fabrics that achieve Class 3 certification tend to have undergone rigorous testing such as high-pressure spray tests or being subject to a controlled volume of water for a defined period. These are particularly relevant for professional use in extremely wet environments where the highest level of water resistance is necessary, providing critical protection in conditions from heavy rain to immersion scenarios. This high classification impacts the practical usability of such clothing in industries such as outdoor work, marine activities, or emergency services where maximum protection from water exposure is critical for safety and performance.

  Breathability Class 4

  EN 343:2019 is a standard that specifies requirements and test methods for protective clothing, including garments designed to provide protection against precipitation and wet conditions, with the aim of ensuring both waterproofness and breathability. Class 4 in Breathability meabs the highest level of breathability, indicating that the garment allows significant moisture vapor transmission while maintaining its waterproofness. This classification suggests that the garment provides excellent comfort for the wearer by allowing sweat and moisture to escape, thereby reducing the risk of overheating and discomfort during prolonged wear. The test method involves placing a fabric sample over a permeable plate in a controlled environment, applying a specific water pressure to simulate rain, and measuring the fabric's resistance to water penetration and its ability to transmit water vapor. Garments achieving Class 4 in Breathability offer practical advantages, as they are suitable for use in demanding outdoor activities and occupations where both waterproofness and breathability are essential, such as outdoor work in variable weather conditions.

  Downpour X

  EN 343:2019 is a standard that delineates requirements and assessment methodologies for protective clothing, specifically tailored to garments intended to offer protection against precipitation and wet conditions.Result X signifies that the garment's performance in resisting water penetration during simulated downpours has not been specified or assessed. The practical implications of this result are notable, as it indicates that the garment may not offer adequate protection against heavy rain and prolonged exposure to wet conditions, potentially compromising wearer comfort and safety, particularly in outdoor work environments where protection from inclement weather is paramount.