What are Type 4B/5B/6B coveralls?

As workplace safety requirements continue to tighten across chemical, medical, and industrial sectors, choosing the correct protective apparel has become more important than ever. Type 4Bhigh-level barrier protection with comfort and breathability, making them suitable for a wide /5B/6B breathable protective coveralls are increasingly favored for their ability to combine high-level barrier protection with comfort and breathability, making them suitable for a wide range of occupational environments.

What Do Type 4B/5B/6B Standards Mean?

Type 4B/5B/6B protective clothing complies with the European PPE regulation for chemical and biological protective garments, with the“B” suffix indicating tested resistance against biological hazards.

• Type 4B - Spray-Tight Protective Clothing (EN 14605)

Type 4B coveralls are designed to protect against intense liquid chemical sprays and aerosols. Sealed seams and leak- tight fabric ensure workers are shielded during tasks involving pressurized or directional fluid exposure. The“B” classification confirms additional protection against infectious agents.

• Type 5B - Particle-Tight Protective Clothing (EN ISO 13982-1)

This classification protects against hazardous dry particulates, such as toxic powders, airborne fibers, or microbiological dust. The added "B” indicates compliance for biological risk scenarios, making Type 5B suitable for healthcare and biosafety environments.

• Type 6B - Limited Splash Protection (EN 13034)

Type 6B garments offer defense against light liquid splashes and low-hazard chemical droplets, commonly encountered in cleaning, sterilization, or routine maintenance work.

Breathability Without Compromising Safety

Type 4B/5B/6B suits typically use microporous breathable membranes, balancing protection with airflow. This reduces heat buildup and enhances comfort for extended wear- -especially important in high-intensity environments.

Common Application Scenarios

Because of their versatility, Type 4B/5B/6B protective coveralls are used in multiple professional fields. Key application scenarios include:

1. Chemical Handling and Industrial Processing

Type 4B certification makes these suits ideal for chemical mixing, transfer, pump repair, and industrial cleaning, where spray-tight protection is essential.

2. Healthcare, Epidemic Control, and Biosafety

The “B” rating ensures suitability for medical response teams, laboratory personnel, and disinfection operations, providing protection from biological agents and contamination.

3. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

From API processing to packaging, these coveralls prevent cross-contamination and protect workers from hazardous particulates or splashes.

4. Environmental and Hazardous Material Cleanup

Whether dealing with chemical residues, powders, or contaminated environments, Type 4B/5B/6B garments ensure both particulate and fluid protection.

5. Food Industry and Agricultural Work

Used during pesticide spraying (in limited exposure scenarios), sanitation activities, or handling biological materials, where both splash and particle protection are required.

Important Precautions When Using Type 4B/5B/6B Coveralls

To maximize safety and garment performance, users should observe the following guidelines:

-Ensure Correct Size and Fit

A well-fitted suit prevents seam stress, tearing, and gaps that could compromise protective integrity.

-Inspect Before Every Use

Check seams, zippers, and fabric areas for punctures or wear. Damaged suits should not be used in hazardous environments.

-Wear Complementary PPE

Depending on exposure risks, coveralls must be paired with respirators, gloves, goggles, boots, and-when needed-taped interfaces for a complete protective barrier.

-Follow Proper Donning and Doffing Procedures

Improper removal is a frequent source of contamination. Follow established PPE protocols, especially in biological or chemical environments.

-Do Not Reuse Disposable Garments

Type 4B/5B/6B suits are designed for single-use. Reusing them can significantly reduce protection and increase contamination risk.

-Store in a Clean, Dry Environment

Heat, moisture, and dirt can degrade the breathable membrane and reduce performance.