Portwest Flexatex Chem Apron

Working with chemicals demands PPE you can trust. The Portwest Flexatex Chem Apron (S656) provides certified protection against liquid chemical splashes, combining the durability of Portwest's proven Flexatex technology with practical features designed for real-world industrial use.

Flexatex Chem: Purpose-Built for Chemical Environments

At the core of this apron is Portwest's Flexatex Chem fabric—a 100% polyester tricot knit with a breathable PU coating. This construction delivers a unique combination of properties that make it ideal for chemical handling environments:

The fabric is fully waterproof, preventing liquids from penetrating to your clothing or skin. Unlike traditional PVC aprons that can crack and degrade over time, the Flexatex material maintains its flexibility and protective properties through extended use. The tricot knit base provides exceptional tear and tensile strength, meaning this apron will withstand the physical demands of industrial work, not just the chemical ones.

EN13034 Type PB[6] Certification: Tested Chemical Protection

This apron is fully certified to EN13034, the European standard for protective clothing against liquid chemicals. The Type PB[6] designation indicates partial body protection—exactly what an apron provides—tested and certified to resist chemical splashes, sprays, and aerosols.

EN13034 certification requires the fabric to achieve specific performance thresholds for both chemical repellency and penetration resistance. The testing involves four reference chemicals, ensuring the material performs against a range of commonly encountered industrial substances. This certification gives you confidence that the protection is genuine and independently verified.

Sodium Hydroxide Resistance

The Flexatex Chem Apron is specifically tested and proven resistant to 10% sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)—one of the most commonly used industrial chemicals. Sodium hydroxide is found in countless applications, from cleaning and degreasing operations to water treatment, soap manufacturing, and food processing. Having certified protection against this aggressive alkali makes the S656 suitable for a wide range of chemical handling tasks.

Antifungal Treatment for Hygiene

Chemical-resistant aprons often work in wet, humid environments where microbial growth can become a problem. The Flexatex Chem Apron includes an antifungal treatment that inhibits the growth of mould and mildew on the fabric surface. This treatment helps maintain hygiene standards and extends the useful life of the apron by preventing degradation caused by fungal growth.

Welded Seams: Complete Protection

The apron features welded waterproof seams that eliminate the weak points found in stitched construction. Traditional stitched seams create needle holes that can allow liquids to penetrate over time. Welded seams create a continuous barrier, ensuring the protection is consistent across the entire apron surface.

PFAS-Free Texpel Splash Eco Finish

Portwest has equipped this apron with their Texpel Splash Eco water-repellent finish—and crucially, it's PFAS-free. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are increasingly being phased out due to environmental and health concerns. The Texpel Splash Eco finish causes water and other liquids to bead away from the fabric surface without relying on these "forever chemicals."

This forward-thinking approach means you get effective liquid repellency while meeting evolving environmental standards and customer expectations.

Practical Design Features

Beyond the technical fabric performance, the S656 is designed for genuine workplace use:

• Adjustable straps allow you to achieve a secure, comfortable fit regardless of your build or the clothing you're wearing underneath
• Wipe-clean finish makes decontamination simple—essential when working with chemicals
• Durable and stretchy construction moves with you, maintaining protection without restricting your work
• Generous sizing provides comprehensive torso protection during chemical handling tasks

Understanding Type PB[6] Protection

The EN13034 standard distinguishes between Type 6 (full body protection from complete suits or coveralls) and Type PB[6] (partial body protection from individual garments like aprons, jackets, or sleeves).

Type PB[6] garments like this apron are designed for situations where:

• The chemical risk is localised to specific body areas
• A complete chemical suit isn't necessary or practical
• Workers need protection during specific tasks rather than continuous exposure
• Flexibility and comfort are important alongside protection

The S656 apron provides the certified partial body protection that complements other PPE elements—allowing you to protect your torso during chemical handling while maintaining the dexterity and mobility that tasks demand.

Key Features (Bullet Points for Quick Scanning)

• Flexatex Chem fabric: 100% Polyester Tricot Knit, Breathable PU Coated
• EN13034 Type PB[6] certified chemical protection
• Resistant to 10% sodium hydroxide
• Fully waterproof with welded seams
• Antifungal treatment inhibits mould and mildew growth
• PFAS-free Texpel Splash Eco water-repellent finish
• Exceptional tear and tensile strength
• Adjustable straps for secure, comfortable fit
• Wipe-clean finish for easy decontamination
• Durable and stretchy construction
• One size fits most
• Colour: Navy
• CE certified Category III PPE

Technical Specifications

Standards & Certifications

Understanding EN13034 Chemical Protection

What Does EN13034 Certify?

EN13034 is the European standard specifying requirements for protective clothing against liquid chemicals. It covers Type 6 (full body protection) and Type PB[6] (partial body protection) garments designed for situations where there's risk of exposure to:

• Light chemical sprays
• Liquid aerosols
• Low-pressure, low-volume splashes

This standard represents the entry level of chemical protective clothing—it's designed for environments where a complete chemical barrier isn't required, but genuine protection against splashes is essential.

Type PB[6] Explained

The "PB" in Type PB[6] stands for "Partial Body." This designation applies to garments that protect specific body areas rather than providing full-body coverage. Aprons, jackets, sleeves, and similar items fall into this category.

Type PB[6] garments undergo the same fabric testing as Type 6 suits for:

• Repellency – How effectively the fabric causes liquids to bead and run off
• Penetration resistance – How well the fabric prevents liquid passing through

The difference is that Type PB[6] items aren't subjected to the full "mannequin spray test" that complete suits undergo, as they're designed for partial rather than complete coverage.

When is EN13034 Protection Appropriate?

EN13034 Type PB[6] aprons are suitable when:

• Chemical exposure risk is limited to occasional splashes
• The chemicals being handled don't require full barrier protection
• Workers need protection during specific tasks
• Mobility and comfort are important factors
• A risk assessment indicates this protection level is appropriate

For higher-risk environments involving sustained chemical exposure, immersion, or highly hazardous substances, higher protection levels (EN14605 Type 3 or 4, or EN943) should be considered.

What is Flexatex Chem Fabric?

Flexatex Chem is Portwest's specialised chemical-resistant fabric technology. It combines several properties to create a material optimised for chemical handling environments:

Base Construction: A 100% polyester tricot knit provides the foundation. Tricot knit construction offers excellent stretch and recovery, allowing the fabric to move with the wearer while maintaining its shape. The polyester fibres provide inherent resistance to many chemicals and excellent dimensional stability.

PU Coating: A breathable polyurethane coating is applied to create the waterproof and chemical-resistant barrier. Unlike PVC coatings that can become stiff and crack, the PU coating maintains flexibility throughout the product's life.

Exceptional Strength: The tricot knit construction combined with the PU coating creates a fabric with outstanding tear and tensile strength. This durability is essential in industrial environments where PPE is subject to physical stress as well as chemical exposure.

Breathable Properties: Despite being fully waterproof, the Flexatex Chem construction allows some moisture vapour transfer, improving wearer comfort during extended use.

Suggested Applications/Use Cases Section

Industries and Applications

The Portwest Flexatex Chem Apron suits a wide range of chemical handling applications:

Chemical Manufacturing & Processing

• Handling raw materials and intermediates
• Decanting and transferring chemical solutions
• Quality control sampling
• Equipment maintenance and cleaning

Food & Beverage Processing

• Working with cleaning chemicals and sanitisers
• Handling acidic or alkaline ingredients
• Processing line maintenance
• Equipment washdown operations

Water Treatment

• Handling treatment chemicals
• pH adjustment operations
• Chlorination processes
• Filter maintenance

Laboratory Environments

• General laboratory chemical handling
• Sample preparation
• Equipment cleaning
• Reagent preparation

Cleaning & Janitorial

• Working with industrial cleaning chemicals
• Descaling and degreasing operations
• Drain cleaning applications
• High-strength sanitiser use

Agricultural & Horticultural

• Fertiliser handling
• Pesticide mixing and application
• Equipment cleaning
• Nutrient solution preparation

Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics

• Active ingredient handling
• Equipment cleaning
• Quality control tasks
• Process chemical handling

Surface Treatment

• Pre-treatment chemical handling
• Plating solution maintenance
• Etching operations
• Cleaning and degreasing

Care Instructions

To maintain the chemical protective properties and extend the service life of your apron:

After Each Use:

• Wipe down the apron surface to remove any chemical residue
• Inspect for damage, particularly to seams and straps
• Store in a clean, dry location away from direct sunlight

Cleaning:

• The wipe-clean surface allows simple decontamination with appropriate cleaning solutions
• For more thorough cleaning, follow manufacturer guidelines
• Ensure the apron is completely dry before storage

Inspection:

• Regularly check for signs of chemical attack, including discolouration, stiffening, or tackiness
• Inspect welded seams for any separation or damage
• Check adjustable straps for wear and functionality
• Replace the apron if any damage is detected that could compromise protection

Storage:

• Store flat or hanging to prevent creasing
• Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight
• Store separately from chemically contaminated items
• Maintain in a clean, dry environment

Important Notes:

• The effectiveness of chemical protection can diminish with use and exposure
• Always conduct a risk assessment to confirm the apron is suitable for your specific chemicals
• This apron provides Type PB[6] splash protection—it is not suitable for immersion or sustained chemical exposure

The Flexatex Range: Complete Chemical Protection

The S656 Apron is part of Portwest's broader Flexatex Chem range, allowing you to build a complete chemical protection system:

S653 Flexatex Chem Bib and Brace – Extended lower body protection with the same EN13034 certified Flexatex Chem fabric, featuring half-elasticated waist and adjustable braces.

S658 Flexatex Chem Long Coat – Full upper body and partial leg protection in a practical coat format, ideal for tasks requiring more extensive coverage.

S655 Flexatex Chem Jacket – Upper body protection in jacket form, suitable for pairing with the bib and brace for comprehensive coverage.

All Flexatex Chem products share the same certified fabric technology, antifungal treatment, and sodium hydroxide resistance, ensuring consistent protection across your chemical handling PPE system.

Chemical Resistance Considerations

What This Apron Protects Against:

The EN13034 certification and specific testing against 10% sodium hydroxide confirms this apron's suitability for protecting against:

• Alkaline solutions including dilute caustic soda
• Light chemical splashes and sprays
• Water and aqueous solutions
• Many common industrial cleaning chemicals

Important Limitations:

EN13034 Type PB[6] represents the entry level of chemical protective clothing. This apron is NOT suitable for:

• Sustained or continuous chemical exposure
• Immersion in chemicals
• Concentrated acids or highly corrosive substances
• Organic solvents (without specific compatibility confirmation)
• Situations requiring full barrier protection

Always Conduct a Risk Assessment:

Chemical compatibility varies significantly. Before using this apron with any specific chemical:

1. Consult the chemical's Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
2. Verify the apron material is compatible with the chemical, concentration, and temperature involved
3. Consider exposure duration and type (splash vs. sustained contact)
4. Assess whether Type PB[6] protection is adequate or if higher-level PPE is required

When in doubt, consult with your health and safety professional or contact Hall-Fast for guidance on chemical compatibility.

Why Choose Portwest Chemical PPE?

Portwest has manufactured workwear and PPE since 1904, developing extensive expertise in protective clothing technologies. The Flexatex Chem range represents their focused approach to chemical protection—delivering certified performance with practical features for real industrial use.

Key advantages of Portwest chemical protection:

Certified Performance: EN13034 certification provides independently verified protection levels you can rely on.

Durable Construction: The Flexatex fabric's exceptional strength means the apron withstands industrial use, not just laboratory conditions.

Forward-Thinking Formulation: The PFAS-free Texpel Splash Eco finish addresses emerging environmental concerns without compromising performance.

Complete Range: The broader Flexatex Chem range allows you to build a comprehensive chemical protection system with consistent certified performance across all garments.

Value: Portwest's scale of manufacture means certified chemical protection at competitive prices.

Why Buy from Hall-Fast?

Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies provides businesses across the UK with quality PPE and workwear. When you order the Portwest Flexatex Chem Apron from Hall-Fast, you benefit from:

• Competitive Trade Pricing – Volume discounts available for bulk orders
• Fast Dispatch – In-stock items dispatched same day when ordered before 2pm
• Free UK Delivery – On qualifying orders to UK mainland
• Expert Advice – Our team can help with PPE selection for your specific applications
• Quality Guaranteed – Genuine Portwest products from an authorised supplier
• Full Range Available – Complete Flexatex Chem range in stock
• Supporting Products – Chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and other complementary PPE available

FAQ Section

What chemicals does the Flexatex Chem Apron protect against? The S656 apron is EN13034 Type PB[6] certified and specifically tested as resistant to 10% sodium hydroxide (caustic soda). The EN13034 standard tests against four reference chemicals: sulphuric acid (30%), sodium hydroxide (10%), o-xylene (undiluted), and butan-1-ol (undiluted). However, chemical compatibility varies significantly—always check the specific chemical's Safety Data Sheet and conduct a risk assessment before use with any chemical not specifically listed.

Is this apron suitable for working with acids? The EN13034 certification includes testing against 30% sulphuric acid, indicating resistance to dilute acid splashes. However, for stronger acid concentrations or sustained exposure, higher-level protection may be required. Always conduct a risk assessment and check the specific acid's compatibility before use.

What does EN13034 Type PB[6] mean? EN13034 is the European standard for protective clothing against liquid chemicals. Type PB[6] indicates "Partial Body" protection—this apron protects the torso area from chemical splashes, sprays, and aerosols. It represents the entry level of chemical protection and is suitable for environments where light splash protection is needed rather than a complete chemical barrier.

Is the apron waterproof? Yes, the Flexatex Chem Apron is fully waterproof. The PU-coated fabric and welded seams prevent water penetration, making it suitable for wet environments as well as chemical handling.

What does PFAS-free mean and why does it matter? PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are chemicals historically used in water-repellent treatments. They're increasingly being phased out due to environmental persistence ("forever chemicals") and potential health concerns. The Texpel Splash Eco finish on this apron achieves water repellency without using PFAS, meeting evolving environmental standards.

How long will the chemical protection last? The protective properties of the fabric can diminish with exposure to chemicals, UV light, and general wear. Regularly inspect the apron for signs of chemical attack (discolouration, stiffness, tackiness) and replace if any damage is detected. Proper care including wiping clean after use and storing away from sunlight will extend service life.

Can this apron be washed? The apron features a wipe-clean surface for easy decontamination after use. For specific washing instructions beyond surface cleaning, follow manufacturer guidelines. The welded seam construction and durable fabric are designed to withstand regular cleaning.

What size is available? The S656 is a one-size design with adjustable straps to fit a range of body sizes. The adjustable strap system allows you to achieve a secure, comfortable fit.

What's the difference between this and a standard PVC apron? PVC aprons offer basic waterproof protection but can become stiff and crack over time, and typically aren't certified to chemical protection standards. The Flexatex Chem Apron provides EN13034 certified chemical protection, antifungal treatment, exceptional tear strength, and greater flexibility and durability compared to standard PVC alternatives.

Is this suitable for food industry use? Yes, the EN13034 certification, antifungal treatment, and wipe-clean surface make this apron suitable for food processing environments where workers handle cleaning chemicals, sanitisers, or other food-safe chemical solutions. The sodium hydroxide resistance is particularly relevant for cleaning applications.

Can this be used for welding? No, this apron is designed specifically for chemical splash protection. For welding applications, a leather or flame-resistant welding apron (such as the Portwest SW10) should be used instead.

What other PPE should be worn with this apron? Chemical handling typically requires a combination of PPE based on your risk assessment. Consider pairing this apron with chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or face shield, appropriate footwear, and respiratory protection if vapours are present. The specific PPE combination depends on the chemicals being handled and the nature of the task.

Is this apron antistatic? The S656 Flexatex Chem Apron does not carry an antistatic certification. If you require antistatic properties for work in flammable atmospheres, consider aprons specifically certified to EN1149 or similar antistatic standards.