EN 13758 (UV-protective textiles)
Also known as: EN 13758-1 (test method), EN 13758-2 (labelling UPF 40+), UV Standard 801
European standard for the UV protection factor (UPF) of apparel textiles - test methods and labelling rules for UV blocker performance.
Description
EN 13758 is the two-part European standard for assessing and labelling the UV protection of apparel textiles. Part 1 (DIN EN 13758-1:2002+A1:2007) specifies the spectrophotometric test method by which UV transmission between 290 and 400 nm (UVA and UVB) is measured in new condition and after 40 washes, sun and chlorine exposures. The resulting UV protection factor (UPF) states by how much the sun exposure time can be extended compared to unprotected skin without inducing sunburn.
Part 2 (DIN EN 13758-2:2003+A1:2006) sets out labelling requirements. Textiles allowed to carry the '40+' pictogram must achieve at least UPF 40 (blocks >97.5% of harmful UV) AND stay below a maximum 5% UVA transmission (315-400 nm). Only if both conditions are met may the item be labelled 'UV-protective clothing'. Alternative standards: the stricter Hohenstein UV Standard 801 (measured also under stretch and wet), Australian AS/NZS 4399 and US ASTM D6603.
For brands EN 13758 means: the sun-blocker claim can only be used in advertising once an accredited institute has verified the UPF. Typical factors affecting UPF: tight weave, dark colours, chemical UV absorbers (benzotriazole), fibre type (polyester > cotton > viscose) and coatings such as TiO2 UV-cut. Collections claiming UPF 50+ (98+ percent blocking) must be re-tested annually - the standard is a mandatory input to the EN 71-1 assessment for children's swimwear and is required by Aldi, Lidl, Decathlon, Vaude, Jack Wolfskin and in the corporate sun-wear space.
Properties
| Part 1 | Spectrophotometric test method |
|---|---|
| Part 2 | Labelling, minimum UPF 40+ |
| UPF 40 = blocking | >97.5% harmful UV |
| Max UVA transmission | 5% (315-400 nm) |
Related product categories
Sources & references
2- Wikipedia: Ultraviolet protection factor Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultraviolet_protection_factor
- Sun Protection Advice (WHO) who.int https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-sun-protection
