Understanding PPE safety standards for the Oil & Gas Industry: EN & ISO compliance explained

A practical guide to navigating the key safety standards that govern PPE in oil and gas environments

Operating in the oil and gas sector means facing some of the most dangerous working conditions in the world. From fire risks and chemical exposure to high-pressure systems, the need for reliable personal protective equipment (PPE) cannot be overstated.

At Hazchem Safety, we specialise in supplying fully compliant, expertly designed PPE solutions that meet the industry’s demands and the highest global safety standards. Choosing the right supplier is as important as choosing the right equipment and your workers’ lives could depend on it.

Why PPE standards matter in oil & gas

Oil and gas workers face daily risks, such as flash fires, toxic chemical spills, and sudden system failures, which make stringent PPE regulations a necessity. Non-compliance can lead to devastating injuries, legal penalties, and operational shutdowns.

International standards like EN and ISO ensure consistency, reliability, and robust protection no matter where operations take place. Adhering to these standards creates a culture of safety and accountability.

And to navigate these complex regulations successfully, partnering with a trusted, knowledgeable PPE supplier is key.

Overview of major PPE standards

EN standards (European Norms)

EN standards establish rigorous testing and certification frameworks for PPE across Europe and beyond. Critical EN standards for oil and gas environments include:

• EN ISO 11612: Protective clothing against heat and flame
• EN 1149: Protective clothing with electrostatic properties
• EN 13034: Limited protection against liquid chemicals

Each standard defines performance levels based on strict laboratory testing. For instance, flame-resistant clothing certified under EN ISO 11612 must demonstrate resistance to flame spread, radiant heat, and molten metal splashes, while EN 1149 certified clothing helps prevent electrostatic discharges, safeguarding against igniting explosive atmospheres.

ISO standards

ISO standards ensure globally recognised PPE performance across multiple industries, with ISO 11612 serving as a cornerstone for protective clothing in the oil and gas sector.

ISO 11612 explained: This standard specifies minimum performance requirements for garments designed to protect against heat and flames. It complements EN standards, offering global credibility and making it indispensable for international operations.

Hazchem Safety ensures all supplied PPE meets or exceeds these internationally recognised standards, giving our clients absolute confidence in their protective measures.

Compliance vs. best practice

Meeting the legal minimum is not enough in high-risk sectors. Leading organisations adopt a best-practice approach, proactively assessing hazards, maintaining a PPE compliance checklist, and conducting regular audits.

Hazchem Safety works closely with our clients to deliver bespoke solutions that often exceed minimum standards, offering maximum protection and peace of mind. By choosing a trusted, experienced supplier, you gain a partner committed to safeguarding your workforce and helping you navigate complex compliance landscapes effortlessly.

Choosing the right PPE for your worksite

Correct PPE selection begins with understanding specific worksite hazards:

• Flame-resistant clothing for hot work and welding areas
• Chemical protective suits for handling corrosive substances
• Anti-static clothing for operations around flammable gases

Every item must be properly certified, clearly labelled, and accompanied by the right documentation. Hazchem Safety‘s expert team assists you at every stage — from hazard assessment through to selection, delivery, and ongoing support — ensuring the right-first-time choice and no compromises on safety.

Understanding and adhering to EN PPE classifications and ISO standards is essential for worker protection in the oil and gas industry. But beyond meeting compliance, you must prioritise safety by partnering with a trusted supplier who understands the sector’s demands inside and out.

Hazchem Safety is proud to offer tailored PPE solutions that meet stringent standards — and deliver lasting peace of mind.