SafeGard™ 76

Physical properties data is based on standard tests required by CE certification designed to allow easy comparison of the strength, durability and robustness of different garments. Lakeland's "Guide to Type 5 & 6 Coveralls" contains easy reference comparison tables of Lakeland garments with main competitors. A glossary with brief explanation of these tests can be found in Lakeland’s “Guide to Chemical Suit Selection”.

Penetration is the process by which a liquid (or dust) will pass through the fabric via holes or gaps in its structure. It is generally measure using visual methods and is suitable for garments designed to protect against low hazard chemical such as paints and light cleaning fluids. Penetration Data shown For CE garments relates to the liquid Penetration/Repellency test EN 6530 (previously EN 368) required by the Type 6 standard EN 13034.

This test, also known as the “Gutter Test”; places a sample of fabric in a “gutter” suspended at 45o. The liquid is dripped onto the fabric and two figures are recorded; the percentage of the liquid that runs off the fabric (the % Repellency), and the percentage of the liquid that penetrates through the fabric (the % Penetration)
Four chemicals may be tested (Sulphuric Acid 30%, Sodium Hydroxide 10%, Butan-1-ol and o-Xylene) and results are classified according to the following tables (found in EN 14325):-
Repellency: Class 1: >70%, Class 2: >80%, Class 3: >90%
Penetration: Class 1: <10%, Class 2: <5%, Class 3: <1%
(Note, The Repellency class thresholds were changed in the 2018 version of the classification standard (EN 14325). The previous thresholds were:
Class 1: >80%, Class 2: >90%, Class 3: > 95%. The explanation given was for reason of statistical uncertainty in results)

The Type 6 standard requires that:-
- For Repellency a Class 3 shall be obtained on at least one of the four chemicals, and
- For Penetration a Class 2 shall be obtained on at least one of the four chemicals