EN 13034: protective clothing against liquid chemicals
The EN 13034 standard specifies the requirements and test methods for PPE designed to provide protection against liquid chemicals, whether for single use or multiple use applications. The garments in this category are affixed with a pictogram with an Erlenmeyer flask under which is the mention "EN 13034". They offer limited protection against liquid chemical splashes or fumes. They are usually made of water-repellent materials with chemical coatings such as Teflon. They are not completely waterproof, but repel contaminants. The contact with chemical products in more or less large quantities varies according to the field of activity of the person, in the pesticide industry, it is strongly recommended to have suitable equipment, in the same way to avoid any risk, even for probable exposure, it is better to be equipped.
About EN 13034
The fabric of a workwear affixed with the EN 13034 pictogram is tested in different ways to determine its resistance to traction and chemicals. In these tests, four separate solutions of chemicals (30% sulfuric acid H2SO4, 30% sodium hydroxide NaHO, undiluted 0-xylene and undiluted 1-butanol) are applied to a fabric sample. The quantities of liquid that drip and penetrate the tissues are measured and analyzed and must comply with the tolerances defined in the standard.
A finished product must also be analyzed during a test on a mannequin to assess the resistance to penetration against any chemical product (liquid aerosols, industrial paint, etc.). During this spraying test, the wearer must perform 7 movements which are described in standard EN 13034. The permeability of the garment to liquid chemicals is then determined. The classes reached during the various tests must be clearly listed in the instructions for use of the garment.
Products certified to EN 13034 are type 6 or PB6 garments and must be spray tested in order to display the standard's EN pictogram on the user information and care label of the garment .
On some womens workwear or men, it should be noted that in some cases the fabric is tested, but not the garment or the performance of the seams, so there is not a total barrier to provide for the wearer. In this case, this information is clearly indicated on the care label and the EN pictogram does not appear.
Other requirements of EN 13034 include tests for water resistance, tearing and tensile strength, and water resistance. When a person wears two-piece garments, such as a trouser-jacket combination, it is important for them to ensure that the two garments have been certified as a "set" for the level of protection specified.
>In practice, if chemicals are splashed on clothing, regardless of the amount, the wearer should immediately move away from the affected area and carefully remove the clothing, ensuring that the chemicals or liquids do not come into contact with his skin to avoid any health risk. The garment should then be cleaned and assessed for future use or disposed of.
Regarding type 6 and type PB6
The EN13034 type 6/PB6 standard defines both the design and the tests to be carried out on protective clothing that covers at least the trunk and the limbs and forms an assembly. This is type 6.
As for type PB6, these are protective garments that only cover specific parts of the body. They have a limited performance, as they are intended to protect the trunk or the limbs.
Where can you find suitable equipment? (Jumpsuit, pants, jacket)
Chemical protective clothing is part of a specific category of PPE which deals with possible dangers that require the professional to have the appropriate equipment, which is why on our Oxwork website, you find a wide range of products: gloves, overalls, pants, jackets that will protect you in all circumstances against light sprays, even a large quantity of chemicals.