Helly Hansen make workwear that comes under the definition of personal protective equipment (PPE), and so it is manufactured and marked in accordance with CE marking regulations (EN standards). Their working clothes are intended to protect against accidents or injuries when working under conditions involving cold, heat, flame, rain and reduced visibility.
The regulations are directed from the EU; these directives classify PPE into three categories:
- Category 1 covers the lowest level of PPE. The user is assumed to assess the needs for protection himself, and there is a limited risk of severe consequences of not using appropriate clothing. The products under this category are self declared by the marketer to comply with the standards. HH products under this category are waterproof clothing (EN 343) and clothing protecting against cold (EN 342).
- Category 2 covers products intended to be used in environments with risk for severe, but not fatal consequences (not category 1 nor 3). The products must be tested and certified by a notified body. Products under this category are flame retardant clothing (EN 531/533, clothing for high visibility (EN 471) and lifejackets (EN 395, 396 and 399) and buoyancy aids (EN 393).
- Category 3 covers products and environments where the user can be exposed to mortal danger or to dangers that may seriously and irreversibly harm health.
The CE mark is visible proof that the product complies with performance standards set out in the directive, for a product of such nature. It does not an assurance that the product will prevent risk of accidents or severe injuries when the user is exposed to such risks in a working environment.
Legislation relating to PPE (Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at Work Regulations 1992) can be found at the Health & Safety Executive website.