European Standard · Protective Clothing
EN 13034 – Chemical Protective Clothing Offering Limited Protection
EN 13034 is the European standard specifying requirements for chemical protective clothing that provides limited protection against liquid chemicals, commonly known as Type 6 (low-level spray protection) or Type PB [6] partial body protective clothing.
1. Scope
EN 13034 applies to clothing designed to protect against light or small splashes and low-pressure, low-volume liquid chemical exposure, where the risk assessment indicates full liquid-tight protection is not required. It is a lower protection tier than EN 14605.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Provides a lower level of protection than EN 14605 (liquid-tight and spray-tight clothing) – select 14605 when higher liquid chemical exposure risk exists.
- Often combined with chemical-resistant gloves meeting EN 374 and footwear resistant to chemical hazards.
- Built on the general clothing requirements of EN ISO 13688.
3. Key Requirements & Marking
Garments are marked as Type 6 (limited spray protection) or Type PB [6] for partial body versions. Requirements cover resistance to liquid penetration under low-pressure spray conditions, seam strength, and material resistance to a limited set of test chemicals.
4. Testing Overview
Testing includes a low-level spray test simulating light splashing, seam and material penetration resistance testing against specific challenge chemicals, and physical property tests such as tensile and tear strength of the fabric.
5. Selection Guide
Type 6 clothing under EN 13034 suits tasks with minimal chemical splash risk, such as light cleaning duties or handling diluted chemicals, but is not appropriate where significant liquid chemical splashing, immersion or high-pressure spray exposure is expected – those situations require EN 14605 instead.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Inspect for tears, punctures or seam separation before each use
- Do not reuse single-use garments after any significant chemical contact
- Store unused garments away from direct sunlight, heat and chemical vapours
- Follow manufacturer guidance on maximum wear time and chemical compatibility
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What does Type 6 mean on chemical protective clothing?
Type 6 indicates the garment provides limited protection against low-level liquid chemical splashes and light sprays, the lowest tier of liquid chemical protective clothing.
Is EN 13034 clothing suitable for chemical spills?
No, EN 13034 is only intended for limited splash exposure; significant spills or immersion risk require higher-rated clothing such as EN 14605 Type 3 or Type 4.
What is the difference between Type 6 and Type PB [6]?
Type 6 refers to full-body garments, while Type PB [6] refers to partial body protective clothing such as aprons or sleeves offering the same limited protection level.
Can EN 13034 clothing be reused?
Reusability depends on the specific product and manufacturer guidance; many are designed for limited or single use after chemical contact.
Does EN 13034 protect against chemical vapours or gases?
No, this standard addresses liquid splash protection only; gas and vapour protection requires different, higher-rated protective clothing.