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The European standard for sun-protective clothing: EN 13758
T Gambichler1, J Laperre, K Hoffmann
1Department of Dermatology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstrasse, Bochum, Germany. t.gambichler@klinikum-bochum.de
Summary
New European standards ensure summer clothing offers adequate sun protection. Garments meeting the EN 13758 standard are labeled with a UV protection factor (UPF) of 40+ for consumer confidence.
Area of Science:
- Textile Science
- Dermatology
- Standards Development
Background:
- Clothing is a primary tool for sun protection, but many summer fabrics offer insufficient ultraviolet (UV) protection.
- A lack of standardized testing and labeling for UV-protective clothing created consumer uncertainty.
- The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) recognized the need for official guidelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish standardized methods for testing and labeling UV-protective clothing.
- To ensure garments provide reliable and measurable protection against harmful UV radiation.
- To empower consumers to identify effective sun-protective apparel.
Main Methods:
- A working group (CEN/TC 248 WG14) comprising 30 experts developed the standard.
- Discussions included medical, ethical, technical, and economic aspects, informed by literature reviews.
- The standard (EN 13758) was divided into two parts: test methods (Part 1) and classification/marking (Part 2).
Main Results:
- The standard (EN 13758) has been completed and published.
- Compliant garments must achieve a UV protection factor (UPF) of 40+ and have an average UVA transmission below 5%.
- A specific pictogram (EN 13758-2, UPF 40+) will be used to mark compliant garments.
Conclusions:
- The new standard provides a reliable framework for testing and labeling UV-protective clothing.
- Manufacturers and retailers now have official guidelines for producing and marketing sun-protective apparel.
- Consumers can confidently select garments offering proven, significant UV protection.