scope:

This International Standard specifies minimum design and performance requirements and associated test methods for three different "classes" of firefighting ensembles, two classes for use where an interior attack is necessary (Class 2 and Class 3) and one class not suitable for interior firefighting (Class 1). The "classes" are categorized by the "level" of an item's flame and thermal protection. "Levels" of performance are additionally reported for the strength and physical resistance, the water and liquid penetration resistance, and the thermal comfort categories for garments within all three "classes." Normative and Informative sections on compatibility provide design and performance criteria and test methods for use when the separate items of the personal protective equipment are worn together. This standard also specifies requirements for an ensemble of compatible items. The items covered by this standard consist of clothing, helmet, gloves, footwear, fire hood, face and/or eye protection devices, hearing protection devices and respiratory protection. However, the ensemble requirements shall not limit any agency's prerogative to assemble individual items compliant with this standard or any other standard as deemed by that agency, following a risk assessment, to be fit for purpose. If these items have different levels of flame or thermal performance and are not compatible the agency undertakes the assessment itself. A risk assessment should be undertaken to determine if any of the ensembles covered by this standard are suitable for the intended use and the expected exposure. Information on conducting a risk assessment can be found in Annex A. Additional annexes provide information on comparison of performance requirements, whole glove testing, footwear assessment and compatibility assessment of the various ensemble items. There is an Annex describing the assessment against the basic health and safety requirements of the European Union directive. Nothing in this standard is intended to restrict any jurisdiction, purchaser or manufacturer from exceeding these minimum performance requirements. This International Standard does not include personal protective equipment ensembles for use in other highrisk situations, for example, reflective clothing according to ISO 15538, or for use in long-term fire fighting operations in high ambient temperature, for example brush, wildland, or forest fire fighting. In such cases ISO 16073 or ISO 15384 may be appropriate. Similarly this Standard does not include personal protective equipment ensembles to protect against chemical and biological hazards, except accidental exposure whilst fighting fires in structures. Firefighters should be familiar with the selection, use, care and maintenance of the personal protective equipment covered by this Standard, including an understanding of its limitations.