EN ISO 14116:2015
Flames are unpredictable. Even brief exposure can compromise safety if clothing ignites or continues to burn. EN ISO 14116:2015 sets requirements for protective clothing and materials designed to resist limited flame spread, reducing the risk of garments catching fire in environments with small, occasional flame hazards.
This standard supersedes EN ISO 14116:2008 and strengthens requirements to ensure safer designs and materials.
Scope of EN ISO 14116:2015
The standard applies to:
- Protective clothing (single or multiple layers)
- Materials and assemblies used in flame-resistant garments
- Accessories and trimmings, which must also meet flame-spread performance requirements
It covers protection where occasional, brief contact with small flames may occur — but where no significant heat hazard (such as radiant or convective heat) is present.
For higher heat protection, EN ISO 11612 applies.
Classification System: Index Levels
Garments are tested according to ISO 15025, Procedure A and classified into three index levels:
| Index Level | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Index 1 | Flame must not spread, no flaming debris, no residual glow |
| Index 2 | Same as Index 1 + fabric must remain hole-free |
| Index 3 | Same as Index 2 + fabric must not deteriorate for at least 2 seconds after flame exposure |
Index 3 provides the highest protection.
Key Updates: 2008 vs. 2015
| EN ISO 14116:2008 | EN ISO 14116:2015 |
|---|---|
| Shell fabric: Index 1 | Shell fabric: Index 1 |
| No requirements for trimmings | Trimmings must be at least Index 1 (FR quality) |
| Parts in contact with skin could be Index 1 (with advice to wear Index 3 underwear) | Parts touching skin must be Index 3 (e.g., collars, hoods). Index 1 fabrics no longer allowed to touch skin |
In short: the 2015 update eliminates compromises. Fabrics and trimmings must all meet flame-spread requirements, and any part in contact with the skin must use Index 3 fabric.
Practical implications
- Category 1 garments must be worn over Category 2 or 3 garments and may not be worn directly on the skin.
- FR trimmings are mandatory — non-FR trims are no longer permitted.
- Skin-contact fabrics must always be Index 3, reducing burn risks if outer layers ignite.
Why EN ISO 14116 Matters
This standard is crucial in industries where occasional flame hazards are present but extended heat exposure is not expected:
- Maritime & Offshore – protection during maintenance or repair where sparks or flames are possible.
- Petrochemical – risk from ignition sources during inspections and routine operations.
- Construction – occasional flame exposure from cutting, grinding, or small-scale torch use.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between EN ISO 14116 and EN ISO 11612?
- EN ISO 14116: limited flame spread, for occasional flame hazards.
- EN ISO 11612: protection against broader heat and flame risks.