EN 13034
Liquid chemicals
Back to overviewProtection against liquid chemicals: EN 13034 standard for type 6 workwear
EN 13034:2005 is the European standard for workwear that offers limited protection against liquid chemicals. This clothing is intended for situations where there is a low risk of incidental contact with splashes or mist from hazardous substances.
What does EN 13034 entail?
The EN 13034 standard describes the requirements for type 6 protective clothing. The protection is temporary and limited. The clothing is not intended for prolonged or direct exposure to chemicals.
This standard applies to full-body clothing such as coveralls and to partial body protection such as jackets or aprons. The clothing can be either disposable or reusable.
Symbol and technical requirements of EN 13034
Clothing that complies with EN 13034 can be recognized by the corresponding pictogram with the chemical symbol and the designation EN 13034 type 6.
The standard stipulates that the clothing:
- Must be tested on the entire garment
- Must be resistant to liquid splashes during brief contact
- Must be worn correctly, including proper closure and fit
- Must pass the spray test for type 6 clothing
Combination with other standards
- EN ISO 13688 (formerly EN 340) applies to general ergonomics, sizing, and comfort
- For design details, refer to standards such as EN ISO 11611 for protection against penetration through seams and openings
Where do you use EN 13034 workwear?
The standard is intended for employees working in low chemical risk environments where incidental contact with hazardous substances is possible.
Common sectors:
- Maintenance and cleaning services
- Laboratories
- Water treatment plants
- Production environments where chemical mist may occur
EN 13034 test methods
The clothing is tested both at fabric and garment level:
- In fabric tests, the material is tested for:
- Tensile strength
- Abrasion resistance
- Tear strength
- Seam strength
- Chemical resistance to:
- Sulfuric acid (30%)
- Caustic soda (10%)
- o-xylene
- butan-1-ol
This measures how much liquid beads and penetrates the material.
- The garment test is performed on a mannequin and is also known as a spray test.
- During a spray test, the mannequin performs seven movements. The garment must not allow any liquid to penetrate. The results are stated in the user information.
Please note: for partial protection (PB6), the spray test is not mandatory. This does not apply to coveralls.
Hydrowear always supplies type 6 clothing.
Performance and design requirements of the standard
- Clothing must comply with EN ISO 13688
- Closures and pockets must keep splashes out
- Fit must offer protection and freedom of movement
- Design must limit the penetration of liquids
Training EN 13034: Correct use of workwear in the event of chemical risks
When it comes to chemical contact, every choice counts. In this training course, you will discover what the EN 13034 standard entails, when type 6 clothing is mandatory, and how to use it responsibly. Ideal for safety experts, HSE managers, and parties who want to advise customers or staff properly.