What is EN ISO 11682:2016?

EN ISO 11682:2016 is an international standard for protective clothing that protects the wearer against industrial hazards, including heat and flame. It provides guidelines and requirements for manufacturers to ensure that their protective clothing meets certain safety standards. This article aims to explain the key features of EN ISO 11682:2016 in an easy-to-understand manner.

Scope of EN ISO 11682:2016

EN ISO 11682:2016 covers a wide range of protective clothing items, including coveralls, jackets, trousers, and aprons. The standard specifies requirements for materials used in the manufacturing of these garments, such as flame-resistant fabrics, buttons, threads, and reflective materials. It also sets out design criteria, labeling and marking requirements, and recommendations for the care and maintenance of the protective clothing.

Performance Requirements

EN ISO 11682:2016 outlines various performance requirements that the protective clothing must meet to ensure the wearer's safety. These include protection against heat and flame, such as limited flame spread and resistance to radiant heat. The standard also addresses physical and mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, tear resistance, and seam strength, to ensure durability and integrity of the garments during use. Additionally, it sets minimum requirements for ergonomics, ensuring that the protective clothing does not hinder the wearer's movement or cause discomfort.

Testing and Certification

To comply with EN ISO 11682:2016, manufacturers are required to subject their protective clothing to various tests conducted by accredited laboratories. These tests evaluate the clothing's performance in terms of flame resistance, heat transfer, and mechanical strength. Once the clothing passes all the necessary tests, it can be certified as conforming to the standard. The certification mark provides assurance to users that the protective clothing meets the required safety standards.