What is ISO 55186:2018?

ISO 55186:2018 is a technical standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that provides guidelines for the evaluation and selection of protective clothing. Protective clothing is designed to protect individuals from hazards such as heat, chemicals, fire, and biological agents. This standard sets out requirements for the performance of different types of protective clothing and aims to ensure that they offer effective protection while remaining comfortable for the wearer.

Scope of ISO 55186:2018

The scope of ISO 55186:2018 encompasses various aspects of protective clothing, including thermal resistance, resistance to penetration by liquids and solid particles, flame spread, heat transfer, and antistatic properties. It also covers the design and construction of protective clothing to ensure comfort, mobility, and ergonomics. The standard applies to both disposable and reusable protective clothing used in various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, mining, and emergency response.

Evaluating and Selecting Protective Clothing

ISO 55186:2018 provides guidance on how to evaluate and select appropriate protective clothing based on the specific hazards present in a particular work environment. It outlines procedures for testing clothing materials and garments to assess their performance against recognized criteria. This includes determining the material's resistance to chemicals, its ability to repel liquids, and its thermal protective properties. Additionally, the standard offers guidelines on labeling and marking of protective clothing to ensure clear and consistent communication of its capabilities and limitations.

Benefits of ISO 55186:2018

Complying with ISO 55186:2018 brings several benefits to organizations and individuals alike. For organizations, it ensures that their employees are provided with suitable protective clothing that meets recognized safety standards. This, in turn, helps minimize the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace. For individuals, it offers reassurance that their protective clothing provides effective protection without compromising comfort or mobility. Moreover, compliance with ISO 55186:2018 can enhance an organization's reputation by demonstrating a commitment to employee safety and well-being.