EN ISO 24232 and EN 343 explained: protective rainwear
EN ISO 24232 and EN 343 explained: protective rainwear
EN ISO 24232 is the new standard for protective clothing against rain. It replaced EN 343 in the EU on 4 September 2026 and in Great Britain on 15 October 2026.
Updated
Standards on this page
Symbols follow the official pictograms where one exists.
Quick answer
Most rainwear on sale in late 2026 is still labelled EN 343, which rates water penetration resistance and breathability, each from Class 1 to 4 (4 is the highest). That is fine while the product's certificate is valid. New certifications use EN ISO 24232:2025, which has its own performance classes, so ask the maker about re-certification.
At a glance
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| What it covers | Rain jackets, rain trousers and waterproof hi-vis |
| Current standard | EN ISO 24232:2025 |
| EN 343:2019 | No longer designated in GB (from 15 October 2026) or harmonised in the EU (from 4 September 2026) |
| On the label | EN 343: umbrella pictogram with two numbers, waterproofness then breathability, for example 3 / 3 |
Reading an EN 343 label
| Number | Meaning | Range |
|---|---|---|
| First | Water penetration resistance | Class 1 to 4 |
| Second | Breathability (water vapour resistance) | Class 1 to 4 |
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EN ISO 24232 and EN 343 questions
Is my EN 343 jacket still legal to use?
Yes. A change of standard does not stop you using certified kit. It affects new certifications, so makers will move to EN ISO 24232 over time.
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Official sources
Standards and site rules change. Always check the current edition, the product's declaration of conformity and your own risk assessment.
- GOV.UK: Designated standards for PPE (Great Britain): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/designated-standards-ppe
- European Commission: Harmonised standards for PPE (EU, applies in Ireland and Northern Ireland): https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/personal-protective-equipment_en
- BSI: the UK National Standards Body (publishes BS EN standards): https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/about-bsi/uk-national-standards-body/
- NSAI: National Standards Authority of Ireland (publishes I.S. EN standards): https://www.nsai.ie/