BS EN 343

The British and European standard for protective clothing against rain, fog, and humidity.

Alsico designs and supplies workwear certified to EN 343, providing reliable protection and comfort against wet weather conditions in outdoor working environments. Our garments combine comfort, durability, and compliance, ensuring teams remain safe and comfortable while performing demanding tasks.

what is EN 343?

BS EN 343 is the British and European standard that sets the benchmark for protective clothing against wet weather. Garments certified to this standard are designed to be waterproof, windproof, and breathable, keeping workers dry and comfortable during outdoor tasks. They also maintain durability and freedom of movement, ensuring that protection does not come at the cost of performance or mobility.

EN 343 protection classes explained

Garments have ratings in a 2-part number, e.g. EN 343:3:3. Ratings are as follows:

  • class 1

    Water resistance: Provides minimum rain protection, suitable for light or occasional wet conditions.

    Breathability: Minimal breathability, may feel less comfortable during high activity.

  • class 2

    Water resistance: Offers intermediate protection for moderate rain exposure.

    Breathability: Intermediate breathability, balancing protection and comfort.

  • class 3

    Water resistance: Delivers the highest level of rain resistance for prolonged or heavy rainfall.

    Breathability: Maximum breathability, ideal for active workers needing moisture management while staying dry.

advantages of EN 343 workwear

EN 343 workwear offers several key benefits for outdoor workers:

  • Keeps employees dry and comfortable in wet conditions
  • Provides protection against wind and adverse weather
  • Maintains freedom of movement for active tasks
  • Reduces the risk of cold-related illness or discomfort
  • Enhances morale by ensuring workers feel safe and cared for
  • Supports compliance with health and safety regulations

our EN 343 rainproof outdoor work clothing range

Alsico’s EN 343-certified garments are ideal for workers with duties outdoors, such as highway maintenance workers, landscapers, rail workers, and utilities workers. Designed to protect against rain, snow, fog, and ground humidity while remaining breathable, flexible, and comfortable for extended wear.

frequently asked questions

EN 343 is a European standard that specifies the minimum level of protection required for workwear against wet weather. It ensures garments keep outdoor workers dry, comfortable, and safe during active tasks in rain and wind.

EN 343 garments are rated with a two-part system: water penetration resistance (Class 1–3) and breathability (Class 1–3). Higher classes provide better protection and comfort. Class 1 is suitable for light rain, Class 2 for moderate exposure, and Class 3 for heavy or prolonged wet conditions.

Outdoor industries such as construction, landscaping, utilities, logistics, and maintenance rely on EN 343 workwear to protect employees from wet and windy conditions.

Yes. EN 343 garments are compatible with other personal protective equipment, including hi-vis clothing, flame-resistant garments, and safety footwear, allowing full compliance with workplace safety requirements.

Garments should be regularly cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions, inspected for wear or damage, and replaced as needed to maintain waterproofing, breathability, and overall protection.

Absolutely. Alsico provides flexible solutions for single-site orders through to large-scale procurement, ensuring consistent quality and compliance across all garments.

contact our team to find out how Alsico can supply and customise EN 343-compliant wet weather workwear for your employees.

why choose alsico for EN 343-compliant clothing?

With decades of experience in workwear and protective clothing design and manufacturing, Alsico delivers compliant, durable, and comfortable uniforms for diverse environments. From single-site orders to large-scale procurement, we provide solutions tailored to your workplace hazards.

here’s why procurement teams trust alsico for EN 343-compliant workwear:

  • Full compliance with EN 343 standards for wet weather protection
  • Durable fabrics designed to withstand regular outdoor use
  • Comfortable designs that allow freedom of movement
  • Wide range of garments, including jackets, trousers, and overalls
  • Customisation options for branding and corporate identity
  • Flexible supply for both small orders and large-scale contracts
  • Expert advice to help select the right garments for specific workplace conditions

get in touch to explore our EN 343 range and learn how we can support your outdoor workwear safety requirements.

learn more about the sub environments we supply into

electricity and arc flash

Our clothing, tailored to specific risk levels, offers significant protection, enhancing safety in industries where Arc Flash incidents are prevalent, minimising the risk of serious burns and injuries.

heat, flame, and welding

Burning hot embers, sparks and fire should never touch the skin of a human, our high-performance, FR and Welding protection garments are essential for workers in these environments.

visibility

Stay seen and secure with our high-visibility solutions, designed to keep workers visible and protected in environments such as railways, roads, docks, airports, and construction.

anti-static / ESD

Industries where electrostatic discharge poses a threat require anti-static/ESD garments. These specialized garments prevent static electricity buildup during sensitive operations, providing a crucial line of defense for worker safety.

molten metals

Protective solutions to ensure your team's safety from molten metal hazards, ensuring maximum-level protection against various metals, including zinc, nickel, and lead, ensuring your team's safety.

chemical

Chemical-resistant attire is necessary for protecting workers from hazardous substances in various industries. Alsico's reliable protective clothing creates a secure barrier against potentially harmful chemicals, prioritizing workplace safety.

rain and cold

Rain and cold weather workwear is pivotal in ensuring safety and comfort in challenging conditions, ensuring workers across diverse industries can perform their tasks safely and efficiently.

get in touch

contact form