PPE Certification
PPE Certification in Canada
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is equipment used by individuals as a shield to protect themselves from hazards and infectious materials. PPE certification confirms that products are made in line with the relevant harmonized standards and meet applicable PPE regulations, which also specify requirements for how the products are manufactured.
IAS provides a simple yet efficient PPE certification process to help your organization achieve PPE certification in a timely manner. PPE protects the wearer – whether a firefighter, laboratory technician, medical practitioner, or tradesperson – so durable, quality equipment that complies with the applicable safety requirements is essential.
PPE certification for export to Europe (Regulation 2016/425)
To enter European markets, PPE must comply with EU Regulation 2016/425 (the current version) and the Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSR) it sets out. A PPE test certificate from IAS establishes that your product complies with the specific requirements of the regulation; we conduct the necessary tests against the relevant test standards to verify effectiveness.
PPE product categories (EU Regulation 2016/425)
Based on risk level, PPE products are classified into three categories under EU Regulation 2016/425:
- Category I – PPE protecting against minimal risks, such as contact with water, cleaning materials, or sunlight (e.g. gardening gloves, sunglasses).
- Category II – PPE that does not fall under Category I or Category III, such as safety spectacles and goggles, industrial helmets, bump caps, and high-visibility clothing.
- Category III – PPE protecting against serious or fatal risks, such as respiratory equipment, fall-arrest equipment, life vests, and chemical protective clothing.
Manufacturers should undergo compliance testing against EU Regulation 2016/425 to confirm the quality and performance of their products, and must develop a technical file documenting the testing reports and results.
PPE certification testing services
IAS tests and certifies PPE across many sectors – including medical equipment and clothing such as face masks, N95 masks, gloves, gowns, face shields, and eye protection (goggles); sporting equipment such as helmets, elbow and knee pads, and wrist and palm protectors; and protective clothing such as high-visibility, welding, and heat- and flame-protective clothing.
High-visibility clothing
High-visibility clothing is especially important on worksites such as construction sites, where it helps reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, and must satisfy the required health and safety standards. Under EU Regulation 2016/425, two key test standards apply:
- EN ISO 20471 – high-visibility clothing test methods and requirements
- EN 1150 – test methods and requirements for protective (non-professional) high-visibility clothing
For the Canadian market, high-visibility apparel should meet CSA Z96.
PPE certification for medical devices
IAS helps manufacturers ensure the safety and performance of medical PPE products. We perform testing to confirm whether products meet the applicable regulatory requirements, including face masks (reusable fabric masks, medical face masks, and respirators), protective gloves (latex, vinyl, and nitrile), and medical and surgical gowns.
Protective footwear and gloves
We also conduct tests and provide PPE certification for footwear against EN standards such as EN ISO 20345, EN ISO 20346, and EN ISO 20347. For the Canadian market, protective footwear should meet CSA Z195.
How to apply?
- Finalize the product(s) for which you need certification – whether different products or a product range.
- Contact us with the completed application form to discuss the certification details.
- Submit the first documentation (based on the certification standard, including test certificates).
- Ensure the documentation fulfils the compliance requirements.
- Audit the product to ensure it meets the standard requirements.
- Submit the final documentation along with any additional clarifications.
- Final document evaluation and recommendation.
- Award of the certificate of compliance.
Learn more about our product certification procedure and certification process, or see the frequently asked questions page.
Related Certifications
- CE Marking Certification in Canada – conformity for products sold in Europe
- Product Certification in Canada – overview of IAS product schemes
- ISO 13485 Certification in Canada – quality management for medical devices, relevant to medical PPE
Frequently Asked Questions about PPE Certification
What is PPE certification?
It is independent confirmation that personal protective equipment meets the relevant safety standards and regulations for the market in which it will be sold or used.
Which PPE standards apply in Canada?
Canadian workplace PPE is governed mainly by CSA standards (such as Z94.1, Z94.3, Z94.4, Z195, and Z96), referenced by provincial and federal OHS regulations. Medical PPE is also regulated by Health Canada.
Which standard applies for selling PPE in Europe?
EU Regulation 2016/425, along with the relevant EN test standards for each product type.
Do I need product testing?
Yes - PPE certification involves testing against the applicable standards, carried out under IAS supervision or at a recognised laboratory.
What documentation is required?
Manufacturers must prepare a technical file documenting the test reports and results, along with the application and supporting documents.
How long does PPE certification take?
It depends on the product type and the testing involved. IAS provides a plan and timeline once your application is reviewed.