The marking verifies that a suit's design parameters and materials have passed tests carried out under the Personal Protective Equipment Directive and the new European standard EN 14225:2005.

Tests cover such factors as valve flow rates, resistance of seals to leakage and tearing, seam strengths, zip integrity, general material specifications and the reaction of suit materials to cleaning agents and storage.

British manufacturers will be aided by the British Standards Institution in the running of tests, compilation of reports and gaining final certification.

CE marking guides buyers to a product's general design and material specifications, but not ongoing quality. Manufacturing consistency is covered under BSI's Kitemarking system, which involves periodic visits and tests.

Related links
British Standards Institute http://www.bsi-productservices.com