EN 343 Protection Against Rain

EN 343 Rain ProtectionThis standard is for PPE Clothing that is used for working in rain, snow, fog and ground humidity. The garment and seams are tested for penetration against waterproofness and are then given a classification of either 1, 2 or 3, in addition to a breathability test which gives a classification of 1, 2 or 3. In both cases, the higher the number, the higher the protective level.

Waterproofness can also be measured according to EN 20811, a standard common with outdoor apparel. This provides a result in millimetres of water column (mmH2O) or Pascal (Pa). A result with a water column >5,000 mm (50,000Pa) is often classified as wind and waterproof. Premium specification outdoor jackets usually provide a water column result of 10,000 mm.

Garments that are lined can typically achieve a Class 3 in both waterproofness and breathability (a 3:3 result), whereas an unlined version of the same jacket can give a Class 1 breathability (a 3:1 result), the difference being in that the jacket lining affects the water vapour resistance (breathability) of the complete jacket.