A technical view of a control cabinet with cables and circuits, superimposed with the word 'Antistatic & ESD'. A link to our selection of antistatic protective clothing is provided.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a serious risk in many work areas. The wrong clothing can cause sparks or irreparably damage sensitive electronic components. Antistatic work clothing is essential, especially in industries such as chemicals, electronics manufacturing or in areas where there is a risk of explosion. But what exactly makes clothing antistatic and which European standards regulate these properties?

 

Why antistaticity is important

Electrostatic charge is created by friction, contact or separation of materials and can be discharged through sparks. Such discharges are not only potentially dangerous in fire-prone environments, but can also destroy sensitive electronic components. This is where antistatic clothing comes into play: it dissipates electrical charges in a controlled manner and thus minimizes the risk of discharges.

 

The European standards for antistatic work clothing

EN 1149-5: 2008 - Protection against electrostatic charges

The EN 1149-5 standard specifies requirements for clothing that safely dissipates electrostatic charges. It is used primarily in areas where an explosive atmosphere can arise, such as in the chemical or petrochemical industries. It is important to note that this standard is not designed for oxygen-enriched or extremely fire-prone environments, nor does it offer protection against mains voltages. The clothing fulfils its protective function by preventing a discharge that could cause sparks or fires.

 

EN 61340-5-1: 2002 - Protection of sensitive electronics

This standard is specifically intended for the electronics industry. It defines protective measures that prevent electrostatic discharges from damaging sensitive components. In addition to clothing, this also includes the right equipment such as antistatic shoes, gloves or floor coverings. Clothing according to this standard must ensure that no discharges occur that could endanger the functionality of components.

 

Some of our antistatic bestsellers:

Image of the antistatic coat AS10 in white with a link that leads to the article.Image of the antistatic ESD trousers AS11 in blue with a link that leads to the article.

 

Image of the antistatic ESD sweatshirt AS24 in black with a link to the article.Image of the antistatic ESD polo shirt AS21 in white with a link to the article.

 

Image of the Portwest Compositelite ESD leather safety shoe S1 FC02 in black with a link to the article.Image of the antistatic PU fingertip glove A198 in grey with a link to the article.

 

Antistatic workwear is more than just a piece of equipment - it is essential protection in environments where electrostatic discharges can become a risk. Whether in potentially explosive areas or in electronics manufacturing, compliance with the European standards EN 1149-5 and EN 61340-5-1 ensures that both employees and products are optimally protected.

 

Orange button that leads to our antistatic protective clothing.