EN 16523
EN 16523 is the standard series for determining the permeation resistance of materials to hazardous chemicals in liquid and gaseous phases.
Parts of EN 16523:
- EN 16523-1:2015+A1:2018: Determination of resistance to permeation by chemicals in liquid phase (replaces EN 374-3)
- EN 16523-2: Determination of resistance to permeation by chemicals in gaseous phase
EN 16523-1 (the part relevant to chemical protective gloves):
The procedure determines the breakthrough time and permeation rate of a glove material against defined test chemicals.
Permeation classes per EN 16523-1:
- Class 1: >= 10 min breakthrough time
- Class 2: >= 30 min
- Class 3: >= 60 min
- Class 4: >= 120 min
- Class 5: >= 240 min
- Class 6: >= 480 min
Use:
- Basis for type classification in EN ISO 374-1
- Type A: at least 6 chemicals at Class >= 2
- Type B: at least 3 chemicals at Class >= 2
- Type C: at least 1 chemical at Class >= 1
EN 16523-1 is not limited to gloves - it can also be applied to protective clothing, boot materials, and other barriers.
Frequently asked questions
Why was EN 374-3 replaced by EN 16523-1?
EN 16523-1 has a broader scope than the former EN 374-3 (gloves only). As a standalone standard it covers all protective clothing materials and can be used as a universal permeation reference.
Which chemicals are tested per EN 16523-1?
The 18 standard test chemicals per EN ISO 374-1 (letters A to R). Additionally, specific chemicals not on the standard list can be tested. All results are published in manufacturer-specific chemical resistance charts.
Does EN 16523-1 also apply to protective clothing (not just gloves)?
Yes. EN 16523-1 is a general permeation standard for barrier materials. It is used for both chemical protective gloves (referenced in EN ISO 374-1) and protective suits and other barrier systems.