ISO 11613:2017

Overview

ISO 11613:2017 specifies laboratory test methods and minimum performance requirements for protective clothing used by firefighters engaged in support activities associated with structural firefighting. It is intended for tasks such as water/material supply, exterior fire suppression, scene logistics, evacuation, command post duties and other non‑interior-attack roles. ISO 11613:2017 covers garment design, material performance criteria and test methods, while emphasizing selection based on an effective risk assessment (Annex A).

Keywords: ISO 11613:2017, protective clothing, firefighter support activities, lab test methods, performance requirements, structural firefighting, risk assessment

Key topics and technical requirements

The standard defines minimum performance levels and laboratory tests for materials and assemblies, including:

• Design and configuration requirements for multilayer assemblies, closures, pockets and interface areas to ensure fit and function for support roles.
• Flame resistance (surface exposure and edge ignition) and heat transfer performance (flame and radiant exposures).
• Residual strength under radiant heat, and general heat resistance of materials.
• Mechanical properties: tensile strength, tear strength and seam strength.
• Liquid and water performance: water absorption resistance, water penetration resistance and liquid-chemical penetration resistance.
• Dimensional stability and effects of laundering/dry cleaning (sampling and conditioning requirements).
• Thermal comfort metrics such as water vapour resistance.
• High-visibility and retroreflective materials: photometric, colour and heat/flame spread requirements and post‑exposure performance.
• Marking and manufacturer information obligations; optional additional garment tests.

The document does not cover interior attack firefighting apparel, head/hands/feet protection, or specialized chemical/biological/electrical hazards. It sets lower minimum protection than interior-attack standards and requires complementary PPE where needed.

Applications and users

ISO 11613:2017 is practical for:

• PPE manufacturers and material suppliers designing and certifying turnout-style garments for support roles.
• Fire service procurement and safety officers specifying uniforms for staging, logistics, command and exterior firefighting operations.
• Testing laboratories applying the referenced laboratory methods to verify compliance.
• Occupational health & safety professionals conducting risk assessments to select appropriate clothing systems.
• Training coordinators educating firefighters on garment limitations and required additional PPE.

Use cases include procurement specifications, product development, compliance testing and operational planning for structural fire incidents.

Related standards

• ISO 11999-3 - interior-attack firefighter clothing (higher protection)
• ISO 15384 - wildland/bushfire clothing
• ISO 15538 - reflective protective clothing
• ISO 13688 - general requirements for protective clothing
• Test method references: ISO 811, ISO 9151, ISO 6942, ISO 6530, ISO 5077, ISO 4920, ISO 13934-1, ISO 1421

ISO 11613:2017 helps ensure that support‑role firefighting clothing is fit for purpose when selected through a documented risk assessment and used with appropriate complementary PPE.