What is ISO 16602?
ISO 16602:2007 specifies the minimum performance categorization and labelling standards for protective garments intended to provide chemical protection. Total encapsulating suits, liquid-tight or spray-tight suits, coveralls, jackets, trousers, aprons, smocks, hoods, sleeves, and shoe and boot covers are all examples of protective clothing covered by ISO 16602:2007.
ISO 13982-1, which is mentioned in ISO 16602:2007, addresses chemical protective equipment for protection against airborne particles. The protection against solid chemicals in forms other than airborne solid particles is not addressed in ISO 16602:2007. (e.g. it does not address the challenge of penetration of chemical dust and powders through materials and clothing by rubbing or flexing or by simple direct contact of dust or powders onto the clothing surface).
Gloves, boots, eye/face protection devices, and respiratory protective devices are not addressed in ISO 16602:2007 unless they are an inherent part of the protective equipment. Biological or thermal (hot or cold) dangers, ionising radiation, or radioactive pollution are not addressed in ISO 16602:2007. The specialist apparel used in hazardous chemical crises is likewise not covered by ISO 16602:2007.
The goal of ISO 16602:2007 is to give chemical protective garment producers a set of minimal requirements for testing, categorising, and labelling their products. This document includes explanations of referenced test methods, directions for completing hazard and risk assessments, and suggested performance levels for certain applications to assist users of products covered by ISO 16602:2007. The goal of ISO 16602:2007 is not to cover every scenario.