EN 1149 5
Static electricity
Back to overviewProtection against explosion hazards: EN 1149-5 standard for antistatic workwear.
EN 1149-5 is a European standard for protective clothing that prevents electrostatic charges from building up and discharging in sparks. In potentially explosive environments, such as ATEX zones, these sparks can lead to life-threatening situations.
Workwear with EN 1149-5 certification significantly reduces this risk and is essential for working safely in environments where there is a risk of explosion.
Symbol and technical requirements of EN 1149-5
Clothing that complies with this standard can be recognized by the lightning bolt symbol with the designation NEN EN 1149-5.
The standard stipulates that the clothing:
- Is made of electrically conductive materials
- Is worn correctly as part of a fully grounded system (e.g., with conductive safety shoes)
- Is regularly tested and maintained to ensure proper functioning
Combination with flame-retardant standards
Antistatic clothing with EN 1149-5 certification is only accepted in combination with flame-retardant clothing, as certified under EN 531 or EN ISO 11612. This is important because explosion-hazardous environments often also present a fire hazard.
Please note: this clothing does not offer protection in oxygen-rich environments and does not protect against mains voltage.
Where do you use EN 1149-5 workwear?
The standard is for employees who work in environments with an increased risk of explosion or where electrostatic discharges pose serious risks, as they work with flammable substances, vapors, or dust.
Common sectors:
- Petrochemical
- Oil and gas industry
- Laboratories
- Food industry (such as flour processing)
- Storage and transport of flammable substances
In many cases, these working environments are subject to the ATEX directives, where antistatic clothing is mandatory.
