Multi-Standard Protective Clothing

It is needed when several risks exist at the same time in the same workplace, for example flames, electric arcs, chemical substances and vehicle traffic. A multi-standard garment combines several protections in a single item, so the worker does not have to wear different layers that may overlap poorly. It is typical of petrochemical plants, electrical substations and industrial maintenance.

It depends on the risks present in the workplace, and the requirements must be chosen on the basis of the risk assessment. The most common standards concern flame protection under EN ISO 11612, antistatic properties under EN 1149-5, protection from electric arcs under IEC 61482-2 and chemical risks under EN 13034. Before buying, check on the label which standards the garment actually declares and that they match the real risk.

A flame-retardant suit protects from heat and flames, limiting the spread of fire through the fabric. An antistatic suit reduces the build-up of electrostatic charges, which is useful where there are flammable gases or dusts. In many industrial environments both characteristics are needed, so it is worth looking for a garment that declares them together.

The flame-retardant garment must be worn closed, with zips and buttons fastened, and without synthetic garments underneath that could melt on contact with heat. The inner layers must be in natural or flame-retardant material, as indicated by the manufacturer. If the garment is dirty or damaged it must be replaced, because protection depends on the integrity of the fabric.

Wash the garment following the manufacturer's instructions exactly, because detergents, fabric softeners and bleach can reduce the protection. Do not use fabric softeners, which create a film on the fabric, and do not iron at high temperatures unless indicated. Check seams, closures and reflective parts regularly, replacing the garment if they are worn.

The high-visibility multi-risk gilet is used when both visibility and protection from fire or electric arcs are needed, for example in maintenance work on vehicles or plant near vehicle passageways. The gilet is a light garment to wear over the uniform, useful for those who need more freedom of movement. It must always be worn over the other protective layers.

For welding what matters is protection from sparks, radiant heat and flame, so flame-retardant fabrics with a reference standard in this field are needed. Welding suits and multi-risk jackets cover the body, while trousers must have a fit that leaves no ankles exposed. Choose the combination based on the working position and how often you move.

No, the multi-standard garment is one of the protective devices, but it does not replace those required by the risk assessment. Gloves, footwear, and eye and respiratory protection must be chosen separately, based on the specific hazards. The garment must be combined with the other PPE (personal protective equipment), which completes the worker's protection.