This standard defines general requirements for ergonomics, safety, sizing, durability, compatibility, and labeling of protective clothing, as well as all key information that the manufacturer must provide. It is designed to be used in combination with other specific standards, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of protective clothing.

In more detail, the general requirements for protective clothing include:

Harmlessness of materials to the wearer.
Ergonomic requirements for clothing, including comfort, weight, and design.
The effect of product wear on its functionality (e.g., color fastness, cleaning, design changes).
Sizing is based on height, chest circumference, and waist circumference, standardized in accordance with EN 3635 and detailed in the size pictogram located on the label of each product. EN ISO 13688 states that sizing intervals should not be standardized and instead prefers a "flexible" approach.
Labels must be visible and legible, written in the official language of the destination country, and contain the following information: a) Name, trademark, or other means of identifying the manufacturer b) Commercial name of the product c) Pictogram and size designation according to EN 3636 d) Reference to specific EU standards for protective clothing e) Pictogram showing the hazard for which the product is designed to protect the user and the product's performance level f) Instructions for composition, maintenance, and washing using maintenance symbols in accordance with EN 3758
User instructions must be written in the official language of the country to which the products are shipped and must contain the following information: a) Identification and address of the manufacturer b) Identification and address of the notified body (personal protective equipment categories 2 and 3) c) Reference to specific EU standards for protective clothing d) Pictogram showing the specific hazard for which the product is intended and the product's performance level e) Raw material composition of the product f) User information specifying safety checks that must be performed before use, the purpose, and limitations of the product (e.g., how long the product can be used in certain working conditions), as well as instructions for storage, maintenance, and cleaning.

Waistcoats