GUIDE TO RAIN WEATHER PROTECTION

TO THE EN 343 STANDARDS

The EN 343 standard sets out the requirements for protective clothing designed to shield the wearer against rain, snow, fog, ground moisture and humidity. This standard is important for workers who spend long hours outdoors in unpredictable weather, ensuring both comfort and safety.

When choosing garments for weather protection, it is important to assess environment, activity, and exposure time in order to select the correct class and level of performance.

1 — Identify the Task, Hazard and Risk

  • Task — How active will you be while wearing the garment? Will you be standing still for long periods (e.g. security, site supervision) or performing heavy manual labour (e.g. construction, logistics)?
  • Hazard — Exposure to rain, snow, strong winds, or damp working conditions that could compromise safety or health.
  • Risk — The likelihood of illness (such as cold stress, hypothermia) or reduced productivity caused by inadequate protection.

2 — Key EN 343 Performance Ratings

The EN 343 standard tests two main properties:

  • Water Penetration Resistance (Waterproofness)

Measured in Classes 1–4. Class 4 offers the highest resistance against water penetration.

  • Water Vapour Resistance (Breathability)

Measured in Classes 1–4. Class 4 garments allow the greatest breathability, reducing heat stress and discomfort during active work.

The combination of waterproofness and breathability may be shown as a code: EN 343:2019 Class X/Y, where X = waterproofness, Y = breathability.

Code Waterproofness (X) Breathability (Y) Typical Use
1 / 1 Minimal protection, light showers only Lowest breathability — high risk of overheating Short tasks in mild, dry conditions
2 / 2 Moderate rain protection Moderate breathability Occasional outdoor work, delivery rounds
3 / 3 High waterproofness — sustained rainfall Good breathability for active work Construction, logistics, utilities in poor weather
4 / 4 Maximum waterproofness — prolonged heavy rain Maximum breathability — minimal heat stress Exposed sites, high-exertion tasks, all-day wear

3 — Additional Markings and Features

EN 343-certified garments may also include extra markings and properties:

  • “R” — Garment has been tested and approved for resistance to rainfall conditions (water runs off outer surface).
  • “X” — Indicates optional testing not performed.
  • Seam Sealing — Fully taped seams offer maximum waterproofing, essential for prolonged exposure.
  • Outer Fabrics — Polyester, PU-coated fabrics, Gore-Tex and other membranes offer different balances of waterproofness and breathability.

4 — Selecting the Right Weather Protection

When selecting garments, consider the balance between protection and comfort:

  • High Waterproofness + Low Breathability — Best for static workers in heavy rain (e.g. traffic management, security).
  • Medium Waterproofness + High Breathability — Best for physically active workers where overheating is a risk (e.g. road crews, construction).
  • Insulation Layering — For cold environments, EN 343 clothing can be combined with EN 342 (cold protection) garments.
Role / Scenario Environment Recommended Code (X/Y) Notes
Security, traffic marshal (mostly static) Showery to moderate rain, cool 3 / 2–3 Prioritise waterproofness; vents useful to manage heat build-up.
General construction / trades (mobile) Frequent rain, mixed activity 3–4 / 3 Balance waterproofness with breathability for all-day wear.
Highways / rail maintenance Prolonged heavy rain, exposed sites 4 / 3–4 Fully taped seams, storm flaps, water-resistant zips; consider hi-vis.
Delivery & logistics Intermittent rain, in and out of vehicles 2–3 / 3–4 Lighter shells reduce overheating; drop-tail hem useful.
Utilities / telecoms (climbing, active) Variable weather, sustained movement 3 / 4 High breathability reduces sweat build-up during exertion.
Marine / coastal & upland sites Driven rain, high wind, long exposure 4 / 3–4 Reinforced fabrics, peaked hood, laminated membranes.

5 — Care and Maintenance

To maintain performance:

  • Regularly clean garments following manufacturer’s instructions (dirt and oils reduce waterproofing).
  • Re-proof waterproof coatings if applicable.
  • Inspect seams and zips for wear or damage.
  • Replace garments if waterproof layer becomes compromised.
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