What Is EN 342? Understanding the Standard for Certified Winter Workwear
When shopping for certified insulated workwear for extreme cold environments, the EN 342 standard plays a crucial role in ensuring protection and safety. At Optimum BHP, we offer a full range of winter workwear that meets this European safety norm. For more expert guidance, visit our FAQ about winter workwear and footwear or browse our in-depth PPE & Workwear Blog.
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What Is EN 342 and Why Does It Matter?
EN 342 is a European standard specifically designed for protective clothing against cold environments. It applies to garments used in conditions where the air temperature drops below -5°C and includes wind and humidity protection. The goal is to evaluate a garment’s thermal insulation, air permeability, and water penetration resistance—critical attributes for anyone working outdoors in harsh winter conditions.
By purchasing certified winter workwear compliant with EN 342, employers can ensure their teams stay warm, dry, and productive during extended exposure to cold. This is particularly relevant in industries like logistics, construction, municipal services, roadwork, and transport.
How EN 342 Certification Is Measured
EN 342 testing focuses on several essential parameters:
• Thermal insulation (Icler): The amount of insulation provided by the garment is measured in clo units. Higher values mean better heat retention.
• Air permeability: Determines how much wind can pass through the clothing.
• Resistance to water penetration: While optional, this parameter is especially important for workers exposed to snow, rain, or moist environments.
For example, a garment labeled “EN 342:2017 – 0.350 (B) / WP” means it offers 0.350 clo insulation, has air permeability class B, and has passed water penetration tests. All these metrics are crucial when selecting high-performance winter clothing for workers.
EN 342 vs. Other Standards
While EN 342 focuses on cold protection, it often works in conjunction with other standards:
• EN ISO 20471: High-visibility clothing
• EN 343: Rain and weather protection
• EN 14058: Mild cold protection
Winter work jackets, trousers, and overalls may bear multiple certifications, offering layered protection. For example, hi-vis winter clothing can be certified under both EN 342 and EN ISO 20471.
Industries That Require EN 342 Workwear
Industries operating outdoors during the winter months are legally and ethically obligated to protect workers. The following sectors benefit most from EN 342-certified insulated workwear:
• Construction and roadwork crews
• Municipal maintenance and public utilities
• Warehousing and cold logistics
• Transport and delivery (especially hi-vis clothing for drivers)
• Agriculture and outdoor maintenance services
Workers in these fields often rely on certified insulated trousers, thermal jackets, and gloves to meet occupational safety standards and stay comfortable during 8+ hour shifts in sub-zero environments.
Popular Certified EN 342 Products at Optimum BHP
Some of our top-selling EN 342 products include:
• Procera Sniper Hi-Vis Winter Jacket – Warmth, visibility, and compliance combined
• Sara Workwear Alpha Winter Bomber – Ideal for municipal workers and drivers
• Snickers Workwear 1130 AllroundWork Jacket – Premium protection with advanced materials
• Portwest DX460 Jacket – Ergonomic design with multi-standard protection
• Urgent 980 Softshell Winter Jacket – Budget-friendly hi-vis protection with fleece lining
Each item is selected for its performance, durability, and full compliance with cold-weather standards. Check the full collection on our winter clothing section.
EN 342 in the Context of Employer Responsibilities and EU Law
Under European labor law and occupational health directives, employers are obligated to protect workers against environmental hazards, including exposure to cold. EN 342 serves as a recognized benchmark when conducting workplace risk assessments. Providing EN 342-certified insulated workwear demonstrates that an employer has taken concrete steps to meet legal obligations under Directive 89/656/EEC on PPE use. Choosing certified garments helps mitigate liability, supports insurance compliance, and enhances worker confidence.
The Role of EN 342 in Outdoor Logistics and Cold Storage Sectors
Logistics teams working in open-air transport hubs, loading docks, or cold-storage warehouses are particularly vulnerable to low temperatures and wind chill. EN 342 clothing—especially insulated trousers and jackets—are essential tools for reducing cold-related fatigue, which can directly affect handling precision and injury risk. Many of our clients in the food, pharmaceutical, and shipping industries rely on certified winter clothing to maintain high safety and operational standards year-round.
How to Identify Authentic EN 342 Garments
When browsing winter workwear, always check the garment’s label or product description for the EN 342 code. This should include the test year (e.g., EN 342:2017) and values for insulation, air permeability, and optionally, water resistance. At Optimum BHP, we clearly display certification details in each product listing. This transparency allows safety officers and purchasing departments to make informed decisions based on workplace risk levels and seasonal demands.
Why Choose Optimum BHP for Certified EN 342 Workwear
Our selection of certified winter workwear includes both budget-conscious and premium options from trusted brands like Portwest, Snickers Workwear, Sara Workwear, and Urgent. Whether you’re outfitting ten municipal workers or hundreds of drivers across Europe, we ensure consistent stock availability, size range, and logo personalization. Explore our full offering or get in touch for a tailored quote that fits your team’s winter protection needs.
Customization Options for Certified Winter Workwear
Did you know you can personalize insulated workwear with logo? At Optimum BHP, we offer professional embroidery and print services to ensure your team’s winter jackets, trousers, or hi-vis clothing not only meet EN 342 requirements but also reinforce your brand identity.
This is ideal for contractors, utility companies, roadwork crews, or delivery businesses that want uniformed employees visible and professional in appearance. See more in our branding services section.
FAQ: Common Questions About EN 342 Workwear
• Does all winter clothing require EN 342?
No, only garments intended for extreme cold exposure. However, even moderate cold-weather gear may include elements inspired by the standard.
• Is EN 342 recognized outside the EU?
Yes, especially in countries that adopt EU directives, such as Norway or Switzerland. For non-EU areas, local standards like ASTM may apply.
• Can I layer EN 342 workwear with other items?
Yes. Proper layering strategies enhance both comfort and insulation. Always start with moisture-wicking base layers.
For more answers, check our full Winter Workwear FAQ.
Final Thoughts – Why EN 342 Matters in Cold-Climate Work Environments
Choosing workwear that meets the EN 342 standard is not only about compliance—it’s about investing in employee safety, productivity, and long-term health. Cold stress and frostbite are real risks, and high-quality insulated workwear helps mitigate them.
Whether you’re equipping a construction team or outfitting logistics staff working in unheated warehouses, trust Optimum BHP for proven protection. We specialize in certified winter clothing, hi-vis gear, and accessories that perform under pressure.