EN 469:2020
Document EN 469:2020 Protective clothing for firefighters. Performance requirements for protective clothing for firefighting activities is a normative document that specifies the performance requirements for protective clothing intended for firefighters. It is a harmonized standard since March 5, 2021, as stated in the Official Journal of the European Union OJ L 077 - March 5, 2021.
The presumption of conformity with the essential health and safety requirements set out in Union harmonization legislation for previous versions of the standard:
- EN 469:2005,
- EN 469:2005/A1:2006,
- EN 469:2005/AC:2006)
expires on September 5, 2022.
The normative document EN 469:2020 specifies the minimum performance requirements for protective clothing used during firefighting.
It covers:
- constructions,
- protection against heat and flame,
- mechanical properties,
- chemical properties,
- convenience features, and
- visibility properties.
The document includes information on:
- the general construction of the garment,
- minimum performance levels of materials used,
- test methods,
- marking, and
- manufacturer-provided information.
It distinguishes between two levels of safety based on risk assessment:
- Level 1: Minimum requirements for firefighter clothing used in firefighting and outdoor support activities. It does not address protection against fire and rescue hazards in buildings unless combined with Level 2 or other specialized PPE.
- Level 2: Minimum requirements for firefighting clothing used during firefighting and rescue operations in buildings.
The distinction between Level 1 and Level 2 garments is related to protection against heat and flame. These levels can be achieved by single garments or combinations of separate garments.
Additional marking indicates two degrees of protection:
- Y (protection against water penetration) and
- Z (water vapor resistance). These performance levels should be indicated on the clothing label and explained in the instructions for use.
The document does not apply to:
- protective clothing used in specialized firefighting operations with high heat radiation, rescue operations involving dangerous chemicals, work with chainsaws, water and height rescue,
- head, hand, and foot protection, or specific protection against other hazards.
These aspects may be covered by other European Standards.