Cold Work Safety: The standard targets environments where workers are exposed to cold stress (e.g. refrigeration, outdoor work in cold climates, industrial cold storage). It helps reduce risks such as hypothermia, frostbite, and chilblains.
Consistency and Comparability: By defining insulation classes and test methods, different manufacturers’ products can be compared more reliably.
Lifecycle Performance: Recognizing that garments degrade over time, including the optional wash durability classification is important so performance doesn’t fall off quickly.
Practical Usability: Incorporating real-world considerations (weight, thickness, breathability, mechanical flexibility) ensures the standard is not just about maximum insulation, but usable garments.
Guidance for Users & Purchasers: The standard provides information on how to select apparel given environmental temperatures, anticipated activity levels, and acceptable performance margins.
