Liquid chemicals
(limited protection)
When to use EN 13034 garments?
EN 13034:2005 + A1:2009 defines clothing that protects against light chemical splashes or mists, where the risk of exposure is low and full barrier protection is not required. Such garments are typically used in maintenance, cleaning, waste management or laboratory work — situations where the risk of contact with dilute or non-aggressive chemicals is present but controlled.
Limited chemical protection
Type 6 or PB [6]
EN 13034 clothing is part of the six protection types defined for chemical protective clothing, with Type 6 representing the lowest level of protection.
Within EN 13034, two protection levels are distinguished:
Type 6: chemical protective suits: clothing worn to protect against chemicals, that covers at least trunk, arms and legs (e.g. one-piece coveralls or two-piece suits, etc.). This protective garment has undergone a modified (mist) spray resistance test on the complete garment (including closures).
Type PB [6]: partial body protection (e.g. jacket, trousers, apron or sleeves). These items have not undergone a modified (mist) spray resistance test on the complete garment (including closures).
Both types are intended for limited exposure only and must not be used where a higher degree of chemical protection is required, such as for concentrated acids or pressurised liquids.
Understanding performance and testing
EN 13034 garments are tested for mechanical properties, liquid repellence and penetration resistance.
The following chemicals can be tested in accordance with EN 13034:
Sulphuric acid (H2SO4) 30%
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) 10%
O-Xylene
Butan-1-ol
These substances are used as reference chemicals to evaluate how well the fabric repels and resists penetration by liquids. Each garment must achieve specific performance levels for both mechanical durability and chemical resistance to be certified under EN 13034.
The table below summarises the minimum requirements.
| Property | What is tested | Minimum performance |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical strength | Abrasion, tear, puncture, tensile and seam strength | Class 1 – basic durability |
| Liquid repellence | Resistance of the fabric to light chemical splashes | Class 3 for at least one tested chemical |
| Liquid penetration | Resistance of the fabric to chemical penetration | Class 2 for at least one tested chemical |
About the symbol
For example: the Bjordal (5909A2ET2) high-vis winter coverall with ARC protection (APC 2) is certified EN 13034 Type 6, offering full-body protection against light chemical spray.
For example: the Timir (613UA2PF9) ECO work jacket with ARC protection (APC 1) is EN 13034 Type PB [6], which indicates partial body protection against small splashes.
Correct use and maintenance of EN 13034 garments
To maintain certified protection:
Always close fastenings securely and ensure overlaps between jacket and trousers are sufficient.
Avoid wearing damaged garments - tears, holes or delamination will reduce protection immediately.
Do not use EN 13034 garments for handling concentrated or pressurised chemicals.
Replace garments that have been exposed to strong chemicals or show visible contamination.
After each laundry cycle, reapply the water- and dirt-repellent finish, as repeated laundering may reduce the garment’s chemical resistance.