EN 14058
Cold environments
Back to overviewProtection against cool conditions: EN 14058 standard for workwear at temperatures above -5 °C
EN 14058 is a European standard for workwear that provides protection against cool temperatures above -5 °C. The clothing is designed to retain body heat without feeling too heavy or stuffy. Perfect for working in cold, but not freezing, environments.
What does EN 14058 entail?
The EN 14058 standard describes the performance that workwear must deliver to provide protection against light cold. The focus is on thermal insulation, with optional additions such as wind and water resistance.
The clothing is assessed on the basis of five measured values, which can be shown on the label together with the corresponding pictogram. These values provide direct insight into the protective properties of the garment.
Symbol and the 5 measured values of EN 14058
Clothing that complies with EN 14058 can be recognized by a pictogram with a thermometer. Five values can be included:
- Thermal resistance in Rct value.
This shows how well the clothing retains heat. The measurement falls into 3 classes. The higher this Rct value, the better the insulation. Is the value higher than 0.25? Then the clothing falls under a stricter standard: EN 342, intended for really cold conditions (below -5 °C). - Air permeability: This indicates how well the clothing blocks wind. Here too, the higher the class, the better. There are 3 classes for air permeability. A high score means that cold wind is less likely to penetrate the fabric.
- Waterproofing: This is divided into two classes. This value indicates how well the fabric and seams can block water.
If the clothing is sold as waterproof, it should not feel too stuffy. This is checked using a breathability test (Ret). The value must remain below 55. - & 5. Icler and Icle
These are tests using a mannequin that measures how much heat the clothing retains when you move (Icler) or stand still (Icle).
The clothing must achieve a minimum insulation value:
- When moving: 0.170
- When standing still: 0.190
Is there an “x” next to a value? This means that this property has not been tested.
Combination with other standards
EN ISO 13688 is the basic standard for fit, sizing, and comfort.
If the Rct value is higher than 0.25, the garment must also comply with EN 342, the standard for protection in extreme cold.
Where do you use EN 14058 workwear?
The EN 14058 standard is intended for work environments with mild cold, where protection against cooling is desired, but there is no extreme frost. The clothing is suitable for situations where the temperature usually remains above -5 °C.
Common sectors and applications:
- Outdoor construction and maintenance work in cool temperatures
- Cold stores, storage rooms, and warehouses with low indoor temperatures
- Food industry, where employees work in refrigerated areas for long periods of time
EN 14058 workwear offers a good balance between warmth, breathability, and freedom of movement, allowing employees to continue working comfortably and safely in cold, but not freezing, conditions.
Performance and design requirements of the standard
The EN 14058 standard does not specify exactly what a garment should look like, but it does provide recommendations on what is important for proper functioning.
The fit and structure of the layers in the clothing are very important. They determine how well the clothing keeps you warm.
For example, it is recommended that:
- The collar fits snugly around the neck to prevent cold air from entering
- The waist and pant legs are adjustable so that the clothing fits your body properly
- The jacket covers the pants, even when you bend over, so that your back remains covered and you do not lose heat
Standardization training for companies: How to correctly apply EN 14058 workwear.
We offer targeted training on this standard, focusing on thermal insulation, air permeability, waterproofing, and the correct combination with other standards such as EN ISO 13688 and EN 342. Relevant for organizations that want to take a responsible approach to clothing choices in slightly cold working conditions.