Liquid chemicals
When to use EN 14605 garments
EN 14605 clothing is worn where workers may come into contact with hazardous liquids - whether through direct splashes, jets or sprays. Typical applications include chemical handling, industrial cleaning, and maintenance in environments where liquid exposure poses a risk. The standard ensures the garment’s ability to resist liquid penetration under controlled test conditions, but real-world compatibility with specific chemicals must always be verified.
Protection types for chemical protective clothing
EN 14605 clothing is part of the six protection types defined for chemical protective clothing:
Within EN 14605, two types of protection are distinguished - Type 3 (liquid-tight) and Type 4 (spray-tight) - each available in both full-body and partial body versions.
Type 3 – Liquid-tight protection
Type 3 garments are tested for resistance to strong jets of liquid chemicals under pressure, ensuring tight seams and closures that prevent liquid penetration.
| Coverage | Protection offered |
|---|---|
| Full-body (Type 3) | Protection against strong jets of liquid chemicals. |
| Partial body (Type PB[3]) | Protection for specific body parts against strong liquid jets. |
Type 4 – Spray-tight protection
Type 4 garments are tested for resistance to lighter sprays or splashes of liquid chemicals, featuring splash-tight but non-pressurised seams and closures.
| Coverage | Protection offered |
|---|---|
| Full-body (Type 4) | Protection against lighter sprays or splashes of liquid chemicals. |
| Partial body (Type PB[4]) | Protection for specific body parts against light sprays or splashes. |
Performance requirements
Garments certified under EN 14605 must demonstrate both material and construction integrity. Tests include (but are not limited to):
Fabric and seam strength tests - ensuring mechanical durability under stress.
Permeation tests - measuring how long it takes for a chemical to pass through the material.
To comply, fabrics and seams must achieve at least Class 1 permeation performance (breakthrough time > 10 minutes). Both liquid-tight and spray-tight garments require sealed seams, tested under conditions that simulate realistic chemical exposure.
About the symbol
For example: the Essen Chemtex coveralls are certified EN 14605:2005 + A1:2009 Type 4 as well as Type 3, offering full-body protection against both liquid chemical jets and sprays.
For example: the Morgat work jacket in Flexothane® Kleen fabric is certified EN 14605:2005 + A1:2009 Type PB [4], indicating partial body protection against lighter sprays or splashes.
Correct use and maintenance of EN 14605 garments
To ensure continued protection:
Always wear EN 14605 garments as part of a complete PPE system with compatible gloves, boots and respiratory protection.
Check whether the garment is designed for limited use or reusable application.
Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and inspection – improper maintenance or extended use beyond tested conditions can reduce protection.
Inspect regularly for damage or seam failure, and replace when performance may be compromised.