Riietekaitse

Riietekaitse refers to clothing and coverings designed to protect the wearer from hazards in work and other demanding environments. It is a component of personal protective equipment (PPE) and is chosen based on a risk assessment, hazard type, and regulatory requirements. Protective clothing can guard against chemical splashes, heat and flames, cold, moisture, electrical hazards, biological agents, mechanical injuries, and visibility requirements, among others.

Common categories include protective suits and coveralls, lab coats, chemical-resistant garments, flame-resistant apparel, high-visibility outerwear, insulated or weatherproof garments, cut-resistant or puncture-resistant fabrics, and disposable gowns. The selection often combines multiple items, such as outer coats, gloves, and footwear, tailored to the specific task and environment.

Standards and regulation: In the European Union, PPE is governed by Regulation (EU) 2016/425. Protective clothing sold in the EU typically carries a CE marking after conformity assessment, with specific standards applying to different hazard types. General requirements for protective clothing are provided by EN ISO 13688, while other standards address heat, flame, chemical resistance, or visibility. Standards help define performance, testing methods, and labeling, but it is the wearer’s risk assessment and the manufacturer's specifications that determine suitability for a given task.

Care and maintenance: Protective clothing should be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage, cleaned according to label instructions, and replaced when integrity is compromised. Proper storage and timely disposal of worn-out garments extend effectiveness and safety.

Use and responsibility: Employers are generally responsible for providing appropriate riietekaitse and for training users in correct use, maintenance, and limitations. In Estonia and other EU countries, this follows EU PPE regulations and national occupational safety laws.