scope:

This document can be used to compare the performance of different ensembles as part of any PPE selection process.

This document does not replace the product standards for the certification of individual items of PPE. It specifies the testing of individual items of PPE as an ensemble, so that the interaction between the individual items of PPE can be evaluated and any adverse interactions between the individual items of PPE can be identified.

It specifies requirements for testing by either assessing the performance of a PPE ensemble against a benchmark condition (i.e. benchmark testing) or assessing the performance of two or more PPE ensembles against each other (i.e. comparative testing).

The standard incorporates laboratory as well as field based testing. It can also be used to assess the performance regarding the ergonomics of an ensemble that incorporates an item of PPE that has never before been incorporated into an ensemble.