Warning to Protective Clothing Manufacturers: Status of Raincoats Remains Unclear; Heat and Flame Standards Must Be Included on the EU List

A guide published by the Textile School on October 11, 2026, highlights two points that protective clothing manufacturers might overlook. The first concerns raincoats. The preamble to Decision No. 2026/1971 states that the withdrawal of EN 343:2019 was postponed to give manufacturers time. However, the annex does not specify a later date, and the Commission’s summary list indicates that the presumption of conformity for the old standard expired on September 4, 2026. The guidance recommends that new and renewal certifications be planned in accordance with EN ISO 24232:2025 until the situation becomes clearer.

The second point concerns heat- and flame-resistant and welding garments. EN ISO 11612 and EN ISO 11611 are not included in the EU’s list of harmonized PPE standards. Therefore, compliance with these standards does not confer a presumption of conformity. A notified body may, however, certify clothing that has been tested in accordance with these standards. The guide recommends clarifying this matter with the notified body before planning the tests.

The guide also covers the Indian market. Products falling under the Protective Textiles Quality Control Order may only be sold with a BIS license and the standard mark. An EU type examination certificate does not serve as a substitute for this license. Factories outside India must obtain their own BIS license and appoint an authorized representative based in India. For more information: Textileschool