EN 343 - PROTECTIVE CLOTHING – PROTECTION AGAINST RAIN

Protective clothing certified according to EN 343 protects the wearer against the risk of body cooling due to getting wet. The standard sets requirements including the garment’s waterproofness and breathability. 
Water penetration resistance is measured from the outside of the garment. The test is performed exposing materials and seams to water pressure. The result is obtained in Pascal (Pa) or mm water column (mm H2O). 

The breathability is measured from the inside of the garment and indicates the garment’s ability to let water vapour through. Good breathability contributes to better comfort as sweat and moisture can be transported from the body. 

There are recommendations regarding the wearing time, not to risk overheating. These are based on the garment’s breathability and the ambient temperature.

The function of the readymade garment can be tested in a rain tower and is an optional evaluation of the garment’s design. 

The protection class is advised in connection with the pictogram;

A. Class water penetration (1-4 where 4 gives most protection) 

B. Class water vapour resistance (1-4 where 4 breathe the most) 

C. Rain tower test (optional test of readymade garment)