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EN 1149-5 (electrostatic dissipative protective clothing)

EN 1149-5 sets requirements for the material and construction of electrostatic dissipative protective clothing. The clothing is intended to avoid ignitable discharges and is part of a fully earthed system. It applies when the minimum ignition energy of the explosive atmosphere is not below 0.016 mJ. In Germany, DIN EN 1149-5:2018-11 applies.

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When is this relevant?

Relevant in areas with combustible dusts, gases or vapours, for example in the chemical industry, when refuelling or in paint shops. The clothing alone is not enough: the wearer must be earthed via shoes and floor, which is why dissipative footwear is part of the system.

What the standard presupposes

  • A fully earthed system in which persons and other conductors are connected to earth through a resistance of less than 10 to the power of 8 ohms
  • An explosive atmosphere with a minimum ignition energy of at least 0.016 mJ

What the standard does not cover

  • Protection against mains voltage
  • Dissipative protective gloves and dissipative footwear worn as separate, non-integral parts
  • Oxygen-enriched flammable atmospheres, where the protection may not be sufficient

Additionally worn equipment such as respiratory protective devices is not automatically earthed by the requirements for the clothing. If it has to be earthed, further requirements may be necessary.

Sources

  • DIN Media: DIN EN 1149-5:2018-11, protective clothing, electrostatic properties, part 5
  • DIN: Scope of DIN EN 1149-5:2018
  • CWS Workwear: Welding protection collection Alpha Welding 2 (example of a standard combination)

Last updated: · This explanation is for general information and does not replace legal advice.