Certification - EN 342

EN 342: Protective Clothing for Cold Environments

Understand thermal insulation (Icler), windproofing and waterproofing—and how to select the right cold‑weather PPE.

What is EN 342?

EN 342 is the European standard for garments and ensembles designed to protect workers in cold environments at or below −5 °C. It assesses three things: thermal insulation, air permeability (windproofness), and—optionally—resistance to water penetration. The testing considers the whole garment system (e.g., jacket + trousers or a coverall), not only the fabric, so you can trust the label to reflect real‑world performance in cold, windy and damp conditions.

Who is it for?

Typical use cases include:

  • Cold storage & food logistics (freezers, refrigerated warehouses)
  • Winter construction & infrastructure (roads, rail, utilities, telecoms)
  • Outdoor maintenance & municipal services in sub‑zero, windy, or wet snow conditions
  • Forestry, agriculture & marine in seasonal cold and strong wind

For cool but non‑freezing environments (above −5 °C), other standards may apply. Combine EN 342 shells with the right base/mid‑layers and accessories (gloves, boots, headwear) for full‑body protection.

How to read an EN 342 label

The CE label shows a pictogram with three indicators:
EN 342 0.310 (B) 3 2

  • Icler (e.g., 0.310) – Resultant effective thermal insulation in m²·K/W (higher = warmer)
  • AP (e.g., 3) – Air permeability class 1–3 (3 = most windproof)
  • WP (e.g., 2) – Water penetration resistance class 1–2 (2 = higher); if not tested, shown as “X”

The letter after Icler indicates the underwear used in the test: (B) = standardized base layer; (C) = manufacturer‑specified base layer; (R) = standardized reference clothing system used for testing a single garment.

Performance fields at a glance

Indicator What it measures How it’s shown What to aim for
Icler Thermal insulation of the whole garment system (moving manikin) Number in m²·K/W + test base layer (B/C/R) Higher value = better cold protection
AP Air permeability (windproofness) Class 1–3 Class 3 for strong wind / exposed sites
WP (optional) Resistance to water penetration Class 1–2 or “X” if untested Class 2 for wet snow / sleet / persistent rain

Minimum construction & design expectations

  • System approach: Best protection is achieved when jacket + trousers (or a coverall) are used together for continuous coverage.
  • Wind & water management: Storm flaps, high collars, adjustable cuffs/hem and insulated hoods help reduce convective heat loss and water ingress.
  • Fit & mobility: Patterning should allow bending, reaching and climbing without exposing gaps; excess compression reduces insulation.
  • Durability: Cold‑rated garments are also verified for tear/burst strength and reliable closures to maintain performance in tough conditions.

How to choose the right EN 342 garment

  1. Match Icler to conditions: Lower ambient temperature, stronger wind, longer exposure or more static work → choose a higher Icler.
  2. Pick wind protection: For exposed sites or vehicle speeds, target AP class 3; for high‑output tasks where breathability matters, AP class 1–2 can be more comfortable.
  3. Add waterproofing when needed: For wet snow or sleet, prefer WP class 2 (or choose a garment that also carries EN 343 rain certification).
  4. Layer correctly: Use moisture‑wicking base layers and insulating mid‑layers approved for use with EN 342 shells; avoid cotton next to skin.
  5. Size for layering: Ensure room for base/mid‑layers without compressing insulation; check reach and squat positions to maintain coverage.

Care, laundering & lifetime

  • Follow the care label. Incorrect washing/drying can reduce loft, damage membranes or seam tapes and lower Icler.
  • Keep garments dry inside. Moisture from sweat reduces insulation; ventilate during activity, close openings when static.
  • Inspect high‑wear zones. Replace or repair if insulation is compacted, seams are damaged, or shell is abraded—especially at shoulders, elbows, knees and seat.
  • Reproof when needed. Maintain DWR/water resistance using manufacturer‑approved treatments to help keep insulation dry and efficient.

Limitations & related notes

  • Scope: EN 342 addresses sub‑zero environmental cold. It does not address radiant/convective industrial heat; select additional standards if those hazards exist.
  • Accessories: Head, hand and foot protection are not covered by EN 342, but are essential to prevent whole‑body heat loss.
  • Comfort vs protection: Overheating causes sweat that degrades insulation—adjust layers and ventilation as workload changes.

Typical selections by task

  • Cold store (−25 °C) picking: Higher Icler with AP 3, insulated hood, bib trousers; moisture‑managing base + high‑loft mid‑layer.
  • Road & rail winter maintenance: Mid‑ to high‑range Icler, AP 3, WP 2 and high‑visibility; pit‑zips/vents for bursts of activity.
  • Outdoor service calls (stop‑start): Mid Icler, AP 2–3 with strategic venting; packable insulated mid‑layer to add warmth when static.

FAQ

What Icler value do I need?
It depends on temperature, wind, exposure time and activity level. Lower temperatures, higher winds, longer static exposure → choose higher Icler. Many manufacturers provide guidance tables—use them alongside your risk assessment.
Is AP class 3 always best?
AP 3 is most windproof, which helps in exposed sites. For high‑output tasks, AP 1–2 may feel more comfortable because they allow more air exchange and reduce sweat accumulation.
Do EN 342 jackets work alone?
EN 342 performance is strongest as an ensemble (e.g., jacket + trousers). If a single garment is tested, the label will show Icler with (R), meaning it was assessed with a standardized reference clothing set.

Shop EN 342 Cold‑Weather Workwear

Browse by application to find the right protection fast:

Compliance reminder: Always verify the garment’s exact Icler value and AP/WP classes on the CE label, use appropriate base/mid‑layers as specified, and conduct a site‑specific cold‑stress assessment (temperature, wind, duration, workload).