ISO/FDIS 15027-1

Immersion suits — Part 1: Safety and performance requirements for constant wear suits

Combinaisons d'immersion — Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et de performance pour les combinaisons de port permanent

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• ICS: 13.340.10 - Protective clothing
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 188/SC 1 - Personal safety equipment
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 188/SC 1 - Personal safety equipment
• Current Stage: 5020 - FDIS ballot initiated: 2 months. Proof sent to secretariat
• Start Date: 29-Dec-2025
• Completion Date: 29-Dec-2025

Relations

• Consolidates: ISO 37156:2020 - Smart community infrastructures - Guidelines on data exchange and sharing for smart community infrastructures
• Effective Date: 06-Jun-2022
• Revises: ISO 15027-1:2012 - Immersion suits - Part 1: Constant wear suits, requirements including safety
• Effective Date: 23-Apr-2020

Overview

ISO/FDIS 15027-1:2025 defines the safety and performance requirements for constant wear immersion suits. These suits are designed to offer protection against cold-water immersion, primarily for professionals and recreational users engaged in activities on or near water. The standard sets minimum performance criteria to reduce cold shock and delay hypothermia, enhancing survival chances during accidental immersion.

Constant wear suits are intended for continuous use, allowing physical activity with minimal encumbrance and do not necessarily cover the head, hands, or feet. This standard is the third edition, incorporating updated definitions, new requirements, and revised testing protocols to ensure higher safety and ergonomic standards.

Key Topics

• Suit Types: Applicable to dry suits and wet suits designed for constant wear. Excludes abandonment suits, which are covered under ISO 15027-2.
• Performance Criteria: Thermal protection levels classified to suit various water temperatures with added requirements for foam flotation, flammability, and water ingress resistance.
• Safety Features:
  • Conspicuity enhancements through the use of retro-reflective materials.
  • Integration of gas or air inflation systems.
  • Use of buddy lines to aid in rescue operations.
• Materials and Durability:
  • Specifications for fabrics and components focusing on tensile strength, tear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
  • Requirements for colour fastness and resistance to artificial weathering.
• Marking and Information:
  • Clear labeling requirements for manufacturer details and safety information.
  • Consumer guidance ensuring users understand care, maintenance, and suitability.
• Testing Methods: Refer to ISO 15027-3 for standardized immersion suit test methods.

Applications

ISO/FDIS 15027-1 suits are essential for:

• Marine and Offshore Workforces: Enhancing safety for personnel routinely exposed to cold-water environments.
• Professional Water Sports and Leisure Activities: Providing thermal protection and improved survivability for sailors, kayakers, divers, and water-based workers.
• Safety Equipment Manufacturers: Setting design and performance benchmarks to develop compliant and reliable constant wear immersion suits.
• Regulatory Compliance and Procurement: Assisting organizations in selecting PPE that meets internationally recognized safety standards.

By conforming to this standard, users benefit from gear that minimizes the risk of cold shock, facilitates in-water mobility, and improves detection for rescue through visual conspicuity standards.

Related Standards

• ISO 15027-2: Specifications for abandonment immersion suits, including rapid donning requirements and full body coverage.
• ISO 15027-3: Outlines test methods for verifying performance and safety criteria of immersion suits.
• ISO 12402 Series: Specifies requirements for personal flotation devices including lifejackets and buoyancy aids, which are often used in combination with immersion suits.
• ISO 13688: General protective clothing-covers ergonomic and safety design considerations relevant to immersion suits.
• ISO 9227: Standard for corrosion testing applicable to materials in immersion suit manufacture.
• CIE 015:2018: Provides guidelines on colorimetry essential for optimizing conspicuity features integrated into suits.

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Keywords: ISO immersion suits, constant wear suits, cold-water protection, thermal protection immersion suits, personal protective equipment water safety, ISO 15027-1, immersion suit standards, marine safety gear, cold shock prevention, immersion suit performance, life-saving equipment standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 15027-1
ISO/TC 188/SC 1 Secretariat: AFNOR
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:
2023-05-03 2023-07-26
Immersion suits —
Part 1:
Constant wear suits, requirements including safety
Combinaisons de protection thermique en cas d'immersion —
Partie 1: Combinaisons de port permanent, exigences, y compris la sécurité
ICS: 13.340.10
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY
NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
Reference number
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. © ISO 2023

ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 15027-1
ISO/TC 188/SC 1 Secretariat: AFNOR
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:

Immersion suits —
Part 1:
Constant wear suits, requirements including safety
Combinaisons de protection thermique en cas d'immersion —
Partie 1: Combinaisons de port permanent, exigences, y compris la sécurité
ICS: 13.340.10
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS
© ISO 2023
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester. BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
ISO copyright office
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
Phone: [phone]
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
Reference number
Email: [e-mail]
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
Website: www.iso.org ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
Published in Switzerland
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
ii
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. © ISO 2023

ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction . vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Requirements . 4
4.1 General . 4
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements . 5
4.2.1 Innocuousness . 5
4.2.2 Design . 5
4.2.3 Comfort . 5
4.3 Other optional accessories . 5
4.4 Gas or air inflation . . 6
4.5 Buddy lines . 6
4.6 Conspicuity . 6
4.6.1 Colour . 6
4.6.2 Retro-reflective material . 7
4.6.3 Emergency position-indicating-lights . 8
4.7 Foam flotation material . 8
4.8 Flammability . 8
4.9 Temperature cycling . . 8
4.10 Leakage . 8
4.11 Thermal protection in water . 8
4.12 Performance requirements . 9
4.12.1 Donning . 9
4.12.2 Walking . 9
4.12.3 Climbing . 9
4.12.4 Dexterity and mobility . 10
4.12.5 Hand protection . 10
4.12.6 Jump test . 10
4.12.7 Secondary donning . . 10
4.12.8 Swim and boarding . 10
4.12.9 Flotation and righting . 10
4.12.10 Field of vision. 10
4.12.11 Helicopter escape . 11
4.13 Requirements on materials, fabrics and components . 11
4.13.1 Fuel resistance . 11
4.13.2 Resistance to illumination . 11
4.13.3 Tensile strength of seams . 11
4.13.4 Coated fabrics. 11
4.13.5 Other fabrics . 12
4.13.6 Thermal insulation identification .12
4.13.7 Metal components .12
4.14 Strength .12
5 Marking . .12
6 Information supplied by the manufacturer .13
7 Consumer information at point of sale .14
7.1 Data list . 14
7.2 Consumer information label . 14
iii
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
Annex A (informative) Guidelines for manufacturers, users, regulators and industrial
inspectors about immersion suits with respect to the application of thermal
protection times relevant to the ISO 15027 series .16
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
requirements of Regulation 2016/425 aimed to be covered .19
iv
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 188, Small craft, Subcommittee SC 1,
Personal safety equipment.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 15027-1:2012) which has been
technically revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— Terms and conditions have been revised;
— In subclause 4.3, requirements for Other optional accessories have been added;
— In table 3, new thermal performance level E, equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit has
been added;
— In table 3, minimum immersed CLO values to Suit Performance levels have been added;
— In subclause 4.12, the Performance Requirements have been re-ordered to improve the order of
testing;
— In subclause 4.12.5, missing donning time for hand protection has been added;
— In clause 5, Warnings in Marking have been revised;
— In clause 7, Consumer information has been revised;
— Annex A has been revised;
A list of all parts in the ISO 15027 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
v
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
Introduction
This part of ISO 15027 has been prepared to meet the needs of persons engaged in certain activities on
or near water.
The justification for using a constant wear suit would be to provide protection in the event of accidental
immersion, to prolong life and to aid rescue. An individual's estimated thermal protection time when
wearing this type of equipment will depend upon the water temperature, weather conditions, clothing,
the cold tolerance of the person and the person's behaviour. This part of ISO 15027 specifies the
minimum levels of insulation provided by the different ranges of suit in particular water temperatures.
This part of ISO 15027 allows for thermal protection to be provided by a variety of methods and
materials, some of which may require action when the suit enters the water (e.g. inflation of chambers
by gas from a cylinder). The compliance of a constant wear suit with this part of ISO 15027 does not
imply that it is suitable for all circumstances. This part of ISO 15027 cannot make detailed provision
for all the special uses to which a constant wear suit may be put, such as special working conditions, i.e.
slip resistance or fire resistance or special leisure applications.
This part of ISO 15027 is intended to serve as a minimum performance requirement for manufacturers,
purchasers and users of constant wear suits by ensuring that they provide an effective standard of
performance in use. Designers should encourage the wearing of this equipment by making it comfortable
and functional for continuous wear on or near water.
The primary aims in wearing a constant wear suit are:
a) to reduce the risk of cold shock and to delay the onset of hypothermia;
b) to enable the user to propel himself in the water and extricate himself from the water without it
becoming an encumbrance;
c) to make the user sufficiently conspicuous in the water so as to aid his recovery.
The performance of the suit may be altered by a number of factors, including wave action or the wearing
of additional equipment. Users, owners and employers should ensure that equipment is correctly
maintained according to manufacturer's instructions.
A suit system may comprise one or more pieces provided that in all cases it meets the requirements of
this document as a complete system.
A constant wear suit may often be worn with a lifejacket as it will provide extra flotation and may help
to bring a person to a face-up position.
vi
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
Immersion suits —
Part 1:
Constant wear suits, requirements including safety
1 Scope
This document specifies performance and safety requirements for constant wear immersion suits and
suit systems for professional and leisure activities to protect the user against the effects of cold water
immersion, such as reducing cold shock and delaying the onset of hypothermia.
It is applicable for dry and wet constant wear immersion suits and suit systems.
Abandonment suits are not covered by this document. Requirements for abandonment suits are given
in ISO 15027-2:202x. Test methods for immersion suits are given in ISO 15027-3:202x.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
1)
CIE 15:2004, Colorimetry
ISO 13688, Protective clothing - General requirements (ISO 13688:2013)
ISO 105-A02, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
ISO 105-B04, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part B04: Colour fastness to artificial weathering:
Xenon arc fading lamp test
ISO 105-E02, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E02: Colour fastness to sea water
ISO 105-X12, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part X12: Colour fastness to rubbing
ISO 188, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic — Accelerated ageing and heat resistance tests
ISO 1421, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tensile strength and elongation at break
ISO 2411:2017, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of coating adhesion
ISO 3801:1977, Textiles — Woven fabrics — Determination of mass per unit length and mass per unit area
ISO 4674-1:2016, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tear resistance — Part 1: Constant
rate of tear methods
ISO 7854:1995, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of resistance to damage by flexing
ISO 9227, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests
ISO 12401:2009, Small craft — Deck safety harness and safety line — Safety requirements and test methods
ISO 12402-2:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 2: Lifejackets, performance level 275 — Safety
requirements
1) Available from https:// www .cie .co .at/ main/ publist .html.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
ISO 12402-3:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 3: Lifejackets, performance level 150 — Safety
requirements
ISO 12402-4:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 4: Lifejackets, performance level 100 — Safety
requirements
ISO 12402-5:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 5: Buoyancy aids (level 50) — Safety requirements
ISO 12402-6:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 6: Special purpose lifejackets and buoyancy aids —
Safety requirements and additional test methods
ISO 12402-7:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 7: Materials and components — Safety requirements
and test methods
ISO 12402-8:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 8: Accessories — Safety requirements and test
methods
ISO 12402-9:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 9: Evaluation
ISO 13688:2013, Protective clothing — General requirements
ISO 13934-1, Textiles — Tensile properties of fabrics — Part 1: Determination of maximum force and
elongation at maximum force using the strip method
ISO 13935-2, Textiles — Seam tensile properties of fabrics and made-up textile articles — Part 2:
Determination of maximum force to seam rupture using the grab method
ISO 13937-4, Textiles — Tear properties of fabrics — Part 4: Determination of tear force of tongue-shaped
test specimens (Double tear test)
ISO 15027-3:20xx, Immersion suits — Part 3: Test methods
2) 3)
Resolution A. 658(16) adopted by the IMO Assembly to amend the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, Use and fitting of retro-reflective materials on life-saving appliances
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
immersion suit
suit designed to protect the user's body from the cooling effects of immersion in water
Note 1 to entry: Cooling effects include cold shock (3.21) and hypothermia (3.14).
3.2
constant wear suit
immersion suit, designed to be routinely worn for activities on or near water in anticipation of
immersion in water, but permitting physical activity to such an extent that actions can be undertaken
without undue encumbrance and thus, head, hands and feet need not be covered
2) Accessible at https:// www .imo .org/ KnowledgeCentre/ Ho wAndWhereT oFindIMOIn formation/ In
dexofIMORe solutions/ Pages/ Assembly -(A) .aspx.
3) IMO is the abbreviation for International Maritime Organization, based in London, UK. IMO issues regulations
which are then published as laws by the member states.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
3.3
abandonment suit
immersion suit including head, hand and feet protection designed to permit rapid donning in the event
of an imminent immersion in water
3.4
dry suit
immersion suit which covers all or particular regions of the body and which is designed to prevent the
ingress of water upon immersion
3.5
wet suit
immersion suit which covers all or particular regions of the body and which is designed to limit the
flow of water in and out of the suit
3.6
secondary suit closure
additional closure which can be operated by the user to enhance the fit of the suit
3.7
exterior fabric
outer fabric of a suit, either in the form of a single or composite fabric
3.8
retro‑reflective material
material that reflects light beams back to their point of origin
3.9
buddy line
length of cord which can be tied or otherwise fixed to another person, or to that person’s personal
flotation device or other objects, so as to keep a user in the vicinity of that person or object with a view
to making location and thus rescue easier
3.10
clo value
unit to express the relative thermal insulation values of various clothing assemblies
2 –1
Note 1 to entry: One clo is equal to 0,155 Km W .
3.11
hypothermia
condition where body core temperature is below 35 °C
3.12
helicopter transit suit
constant wear suit worn by helicopter occupants
3.13
offshore installation
structure or vessel that is permanently or temporarily sited at sea or away from the shore in a fresh
water lake or river and which is not covered by other international regulations
3.14
suit system
immersion suit including its components and accessories, and any auxiliary buoyancy, or personal
flotation device (PFD)
Note 1 to entry: The storage bag is not part of the suit system.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
3.15
underclothing
clothes worn under the suit system
Note 1 to entry: The underclothing to be worn with the suit system shall be specified by the manufacturer. If not
specified by the manufacturer, it shall be according to ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.8.1.3.
3.16
heat strain
increase of body temperature induced by sustained heat stress which cannot be fully compensated by
temperature regulation, or activation of thermoeffective activities in response to heat stress which
cause sustained changes in the state of other, nonthermal, regulatory systems
3.17
cold shock
short transitory phase lasting about 2 min to 3 min upon sudden immersion in cold water and
characterized by an uncontrollable hyperventilation accompanied by other cardio-respiratory distress
4 Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 A constant wear suit system (dry or wet suit) shall meet the requirements of this document.
The suit shall not be damaged or fail in its determined function when tested in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, Clause 3.
When a PFD or auxiliary buoyancy is part of the suit system, it shall be tested and included as part of
the suit system.
4.1.2 The suit system shall be designed so as not to impede the user during normal use when tested
in accordance with ISO 15027-3, 3.15.
4.1.3 All suit samples shall undergo temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx 3.3,
followed by the rotating shock bin test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020 3.4, and cleaning shall
be done according to the specification of the manufacturer in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx 3.11,.
prior to all remaining tests.
4.1.4 The manufacturer shall specify the components of the suit system including underclothing and
additional items. The constant wear suit may incorporate additional items compliant with ISO 12402-8,
none of which shall impair its performance with respect to the requirements of this part of ISO 15027,
either by their presence or their use. If a safety harness forms an integral part of the suit designed to
comply with this part of ISO 15027, then the complete assembly shall comply both with ISO 12401 and
with this part of ISO 15027.
4.1.5 The risk of heat stress and discomfort shall be taken into account in the design and use of
the suit system with underclothing. This should be accompanied in the information supplied by the
manufacturer by specific advice or warnings according to Clause 6.
NOTE In general, the higher the protection against cold shock and hypothermia, the higher the possibility of
heat strain is. The user of a constant wear suit needs to balance those two effects when choosing a device.
4.1.6 The rotating shock bin test according to ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.4 shall be performed on each
sample. There shall be no visible migration of insulation material and no visible wear-and-tear damage
after the rotating shock bin test.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
4.1.7 Unless the suit system has been designed to be used without a PFD, the suit system shall not
prevent the donning of a PFD in accordance with ISO 12402-2 or ISO 12402-3 and the manufacturer of
the suit system shall specify the type of PFD (inflatable and/or inherent) to be used.
4.1.8 The suit system shall be designed in such a way as to minimize the risk of snagging. Test in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:202x, 3.10.
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements
4.2.1 Innocuousness
The suit system shall not adversely affect the health or hygiene of the user. The materials shall not, in
the foreseeable conditions of normal use, release substances generally known to be toxic, carcinogenic,
mutagenic, allergenic, toxic to reproduction or otherwise harmful.
NOTE More information can be found in ISO 13688.Materials should be selected to minimize the
environmental impact of the production and disposal of protective clothing (see ISO 13688:—, Annex F).
The examination, in combination with the following requirements in 4.2, shall determine whether
the claim that the materials are suitable for use in the protective clothing or protective equipment is
justified. Particular attention has to be paid to the presence of plasticizers, unreacted components,
heavy metals, impurities and the chemical identity of pigments and dyes.
4.2.2 Design
The design of the suit system shall facilitate its correct positioning on the user and shall ensure that it
remains in place for the foreseeable period of use, taking into account ambient factors, together with
the movements and postures that the wearer could adopt during the course of work or other activity.
For this purpose, appropriate means, such as adequate adjustment systems or adequate size ranges
shall be provided to enable the suit system to be adapted to the morphology of the user.
4.2.3 Comfort
4.2.3.1 The suit system shall provide users with a level of comfort consistent with the level of
protection against hazards for which it is intended, the ambient conditions, the level of the user’s
activity, and the anticipated duration of use of the protective clothing.
The suit system shall not
— have rough, sharp or hard surfaces that irritate or injure the user;
— be so tight, loose and/or heavy that it restricts normal movement.
4.2.3.2 If applicable, the suit shall be made of materials with low water-vapour resistance and/or high
air permeability and/or shall be sufficiently ventilated to minimize discomfort and thermal stress.
4.2.3.3 A suit system that imposes significant ergonomic burdens such as heat stress, or is inherently
uncomfortable because of the need to provide adequate protection, should be accompanied by specific
advice or warnings in the information supplied by the manufacturer. Specific advice on the appropriate
duration for continuous use of the clothing in the intended application(s) should be given.
4.3 Other optional accessories
Suit systems may be equipped with further accessories. Where applicable such accessories shall comply
with ISO 12402-8:2020, and shall be tested as a part of the suit system. No accessory shall impair the
suit system’s performance.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
4.4 Gas or air inflation
If any part of the suit relies upon air or gas inflation in order to achieve the performance levels set
out within this part of ISO 15027 then each part of the assembly — namely: oral inflation tubes,
inflation system and the gas cylinder — shall be tested in accordance to and comply with the relevant
requirements of ISO12402 -7: 2020.
The inflatable buoyancy chamber material shall meet the relevant requirement of ISO 12402-7:2020,
4.9.
4.5 Buddy lines
A buddy line, if provided, shall be made from synthetic cord or webbing and shall be at least 1 500 mm
in length. The line shall be attached securely to the suit and have a free end with a releasable means for
attachment to another person or object, such as a loop, a snap hook, or a wooden or plastic toggle. The
buddy line, if provided, shall be readily accessible to at least one of the user's hands as confirmed during
device testing. The attachment means and line shall be stowed in such a way that they do not create a
hazard or affect the normal operation of the immersion suit. If hardware is provided as an attachment
means, it shall not have sharp edges. The assembly shall float in fresh water. Hardware on the buddy line
shall either not be broken, or if broken, not expose sharp edges after pull testing. Weathering testing is
not required when the buddy line is normally stowed inside a pocket.
If provided, a buddy line shall be tested in accordance with ISO 12402-9:2020, 5.5.6 and withstand a
+1
(750 ± 50) N load for at least 3 min without any damage. The force required to separate the buddy
line from the suit shall be greater than 750 N and less than 1 500 N. The separation of the buddy line
from the immersion suit shall not adversely affect the integrity of the immersion suit. This shall be
verified by visual inspection.
The buddy line, if provided, shall be in accordance with ISO 12402-8:2020, 5.4.
4.6 Conspicuity
4.6.1 Colour
A constant wear immersion suit may be any colour.
4.6.1.1 Where colour is required for search and rescue,
— the colour of the exposed portions (excluding components such as webbing, zips and other fittings)
of the suit when deployed in the face-up floating position shall be in the colour range from yellow to
red,
— the chromaticity coordinates for non-fluorescent colours shall lie within one of the areas defined in
Table 1, and
— the luminance factor shall exceed the corresponding value in Table 1.
The chromaticity coordinates and the luminance factor for fluorescent colours shall comply with
Table 2.
The face-up floating position is defined during in-water test according to ISO 15027-3:202x, 3.10.6.
Where colour does not aid search and rescue, other means of detection shall be provided.
4.6.1.2 The colour of the material samples shall be measured with the procedures defined in
CIE 15:2004 with polychromatic illumination D65 and 45/0 geometry and 2° standard observer.
The specimen shall have a black underlay with reflectance of less than 0,04. The specimens shall be
conditioned for at least 24 h at (20 ± 2) °C and (65 ± 5) % relative humidity. If the test is carried out
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
in other conditions, the test shall be conducted within 5 min after withdrawal from the conditioning
atmosphere.
4.6.1.3 The colour fastness (dry and wet) of immersion suit material when determined in accordance
with ISO 105-A02 shall be resistant to rubbing (wet and dry), when tested in accordance with ISO 105-
X12 to at least step 4, and to salt water when tested in accordance with ISO 105-E02 to at least step 4.
Table 1 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, orange and red
non‑fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,389 0,610
0,320 0,490
Yellow > 0,35
0,405 0,400
0,500 0,500
0,500 0,500
0,405 0,400
Orange > 0,25
0,470 0,330
0,600 0,400
0,610 0,400
0,470 0,330
Red > 0,15
0,525 0,270
0,700 0,300
Table 2 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, yellow-orange,
orange, orange‑red and red fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,380 0,610
0,320 0,490
Fluorescent yellow > 0,60
0,370 0,440
0,440 0,550
0,440 0,550
0,370 0,440
Fluorescent yellow-orange > 0,50
0,420 0,390
0,505 0,490
0,505 0,490
0,420 0,390
Fluorescent orange > 0,40
0,460 0,350
0,575 0,425
0,575 0,425
0,460 0,350
Fluorescent orange-red > 0,30
0,488 0,320
0,630 0,360
0,630 0,360
0,488 0,320
Fluorescent red > 0,20
0,525 0,280
0,695 0,300
4.6.2 Retro‑reflective material
A passive light system of retro-reflective material shall be provided. This shall conform to the
specification detailed in IMO Resolution A.658(16), Annex 2. If it is the only light system, then a total
2 2
area of not less than 400 cm shall be provided. At least 100 cm shall be affixed to the hood, if a hood
is provided, and in addition at least 250 cm shall be clear of the water and visible in the suit's normal
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
in-water position as tested in ISO 15027-3:2020, 3.10.6.4.1. At least one piece of 50 cm shall be affixed
to the back of the suit.
The performance of the retro-reflective material shall not be degraded by the method used to apply it
to the suit. Test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.10.6.4.2.
4.6.3 Emergency position-indicating-lights
An active light system may also be provided. This shall conform to the requirements for emergency
lights according to ISO 12402-8:2020.
Alternative systems to provide Conspicuity to assist search and rescue operations, such as combinations
of active light systems (emergency lights) and passive light systems (retro-reflective material) will be
acceptable if they meet the specifications for both emergency lights and retro-reflective material as
defined above.
4.7 Foam flotation material
Foam flotation material used to assist the buoyancy performance of the suit system shall comply
with ISO 12402-7:2020, 4.8. The buoyancy of the suit system shall be tested in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.7. The buoyancy measurement after 24 h shall not exceed 5 % buoyancy loss of the
original buoyancy.
4.8 Flammability
When tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.10, the suit material shall neither be consumed
nor sustain burning nor continue melting 6 s after being removed from the flames.
4.9 Temperature cycling
The suit system, excluding a separate PFD, where applicable, shall be resistant to damage caused by
changes in ambient temperature.
After temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.3, the suit system shall show no
visible damage to the external and internal construction components, such as shrinking, cracking,
swelling, dissolution or change of mechanical qualities.
Additionally, after temperature cycling, dry suits shall be subjected to the leak test in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.13.
4.10 Leakage
The leakage of a dry suit system during jumping shall be measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx,
3.13.1 and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 500 g.
The leakage of a dry suit system during swimming shall be measured in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.13.2 and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 200 g.
4.11 Thermal protection in water
The suit system with the underclothing specified by the manufacturer or with standard underclothing
according to ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.14.1.2 shall provide the user with thermal protection in a hydrostatical
compressed state as defined by its flotation position. This part of ISO 15027 recognizes the need for
different levels of thermal protection depending upon the water temperature in which the suit will be
used. The conditions of thermal protection are shown in Table 3. Testing shall be in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.14. None of the six human test subjects' core temperatures shall fall more than
2 °C. Each human test subject's skin temperature shall not be lower than 10 °C for a time period of more
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
than 15 min. If either of these two requirements is not fulfilled, the suit system shall be deemed to have
failed.
NOTE See Annex A for more information on thermal protection time.
Table 3 — Thermal performance levels
a
Suit performance level
b c
A B C D E
Duration (h) 6 4 2 2 1
Water temperature (°C) 2 2 5 10 5
Immersed CLO (minimum) 0,75 0,60 0,33 0,25 0,16
a
Tests are performed in calm water. Rough conditions (e.g. wind, waves) will decrease the stated period of immersion.
b
Equivalent to SOLAS insulated immersion suit, when tested at a water temperature of maximum 2 °C.
c
Equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit.
There are two options for measuring the thermal protection provided if the results are equivalent:
a) using a thermal manikin, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.8.1;
b) using human test subjects, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.8.2.
When tested with a thermal manikin in accordance with ISO 15027-3 X.XX, the Clo-value shall not be
less than the values indicated in Table 3.
When using human subjects for testing none of the six human test subjects' core temperatures shall
fall more than 2 °C. Each human test subject's skin temperature shall not be lower than 10 °C for a time
period of more than 15 min. If either of these two requirements is not fulfilled, the suit system shall be
deemed to have failed.
4.12 Performance requirements
4.12.1 Donning
When tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.15.2.1 b), it shall be possible to don the suit system,
and secure all primary closures, within 5 min.
Where the suit system includes an inflatable element integrated into the suit, the 5 min donning time
shall include inflation of the inflatable element.
Where the suit system includes a separate PFD, the 5 min donning time shall include donning of the
uninflated PFD and subsequent inflation.
There shall be no damage to the suit system after donning.
4.12.2 Walking
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to walk easily as tested in accordance
with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.15.3.1.
4.12.3 Climbing
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to climb freely as tested in accordance
with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.15.4.1.
ISO/DIS 15027-1:2023(E)
4.12.4 Dexterity and mobility
When tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.15.5, the suit system, shall not hinder the user's
dexterity or mobility. The design shall ensure that protected parts of the body do not get uncovered by
expected movements by the user.
4.12.5 Hand protection
When hand protection is provided as part of the system, a person wearing the suit system correctly
donned shall be able to remove the hand protection from storage and don the hand protection within 3
min when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.16.2.2.
4.12.6 Jump test
A user wearing a suit system correctly donned shall be able to jump vertically feet first into water from
+ 05,
a height of (45, ) m. The suit shall not be dislodged or damaged by the jump or cause harm to the
test subject, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.16.1.
4.12.7 Secondary donning
The user shall be able to secure any secondary suit closures (if fitted) within 2 min. This shall be tested
in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020, 3.16.2.1.
4.12.8 Swim and boarding
A user wearing a suit system correctly donned, with both primary and secondary (if fitted) closure
systems secured, shall be able to swim and to board a platform or life raft. Test in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:20xx, 3.16.6.
4.12.9 Flotation and righting
4.12.9.1 Floating position
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned, with both the primary and secondary
...

FINAL DRAFT
International
Standard
ISO/TC 188/SC 1
Immersion suits —
Secretariat: AFNOR
Part 1:
Voting begins on:
2025-12-29
Safety and performance
requirements for constant wear
Voting terminates on:
2026-02-23
suits
Combinaisons d'immersion —
Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et de performance pour les
combinaisons de port permanent
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT,
WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY
RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE
AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING DOCUMENTATION.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO-
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES, DRAFT
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE
TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL
TO BECOME STAN DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE
MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
Reference number
FINAL DRAFT
International
Standard
ISO/TC 188/SC 1
Immersion suits —
Secretariat: AFNOR
Part 1:
Voting begins on:
Safety and performance
requirements for constant wear
Voting terminates on:
suits
Combinaisons d'immersion —
Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et de performance pour les
combinaisons de port permanent
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT,
WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY
RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE
AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING DOCUMENTATION.
© ISO 2025
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO-
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES, DRAFT
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
TO BECOME STAN DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE
MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO copyright office
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Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
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Published in Switzerland Reference number
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction .vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Requirements and guidance . . 4
4.1 General .4
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements .5
4.2.1 Innocuousness .5
4.2.2 Design .5
4.2.3 Comfort .5
4.3 Accessories .6
4.4 Gas or air inflation . .6
4.5 Buddy lines .6
4.6 Conspicuity .6
4.6.1 Colour .6
4.6.2 Retro-reflective material .8
4.6.3 Emergency-position-indicating lights .8
4.7 Foam flotation material .8
4.8 Flammability .8
4.9 Temperature cycling . .8
4.10 Water ingress .8
4.11 Thermal protection in water .8
4.12 Performance requirements .9
4.12.1 Donning .9
4.12.2 Walking .9
4.12.3 Climbing .9
4.12.4 Dexterity and mobility .10
4.12.5 Hand protection .10
4.12.6 Jump test .10
4.12.7 Secondary donning . .10
4.12.8 Swim and boarding .10
4.12.9 Flotation and righting .10
4.12.10 Field of vision.10
4.12.11 Helicopter escape .11
4.13 Requirements on materials, fabrics and components .11
4.13.1 Fuel resistance .11
4.13.2 Resistance to illumination .11
4.13.3 Tensile strength of seams .11
4.13.4 Coated fabrics.11
4.13.5 Other fabrics . 12
4.13.6 Metal components . 12
4.14 Strength . 12
5 Marking . .12
6 Information supplied by the manufacturer .13
7 Consumer information at point of sale . 14
7.1 Data list .14
7.2 Consumer information label . 15
Annex A (informative) Information for manufacturers, users, regulators and industrial
inspectors about immersion suits on the application of thermal protection times
relevant to the ISO 15027 series .16

iii
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
requirements of Regulation 2016/425 aimed to be covered . 19
Bibliography .22

iv
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee
has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations,
governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely
with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types
of ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent
rights in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received notice of (a)
patent(s) which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that
this may not represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 188, Small craft, Subcommittee SC 1, Personal
safety equipment, in collaboration with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) Technical
Committee CEN/TC 162, Protective clothing including hand and arm protection and lifejackets, in accordance
with the Agreement on technical cooperation between ISO and CEN (Vienna Agreement).
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 15027-1:2012), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— the terms and definitions have been revised;
— in 4.3, requirements for other optional accessories have been added;
— in Table 3, a new thermal performance level E, equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit has been
added;
— in Table 3, minimum immersed clo values to suit performance levels have been added;
— in 4.12, the performance requirements have been re-ordered to improve the order of testing;
— in 4.12.5, the missing donning time for hand protection has been added;
— in Clause 5, the warnings have been revised;
— in Clause 7, the consumer information has been revised;
— Annex A has been revised.
A list of all parts in the ISO 15027 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.

v
Introduction
This document has been prepared to meet the needs of persons engaged in certain activities on or near
water.
Constant wear suits are used to provide protection in the event of accidental immersion, to prolong life
and to aid rescue. An individual’s estimated thermal protection time when wearing this type of equipment
depends upon the water temperature, weather conditions, clothing, the cold tolerance of the person and
the person’s behaviour. This document specifies the minimum levels of insulation provided by the different
ranges of suit in particular water temperatures.
This document allows for thermal protection to be provided by a variety of methods and materials,
some of which can require action when the suit enters the water (e.g. inflation of chambers by gas from a
cylinder). The conformity of a constant wear suit with this document does not imply that it is suitable for all
circumstances. This document cannot make detailed provision for all the special uses to which a constant
wear suit can be put, such as special working conditions, i.e. slip resistance or fire resistance or special
leisure applications.
This document is intended to serve as a minimum performance requirement for manufacturers, purchasers
and users of constant wear suits by ensuring that they provide an effective standard of performance in use.
Designers should encourage the wearing of this equipment by making it comfortable and functional for
continuous wear on or near water.
The primary aims in wearing a constant wear suit are:
a) to reduce the risk of cold shock and to delay the onset of hypothermia;
b) to enable users to propel themselves in the water and extricate themselves from the water without it
becoming an encumbrance;
c) to make users sufficiently conspicuous in the water so as to aid their recovery.
The performance of the suit can be altered by a number of factors, including wave action or the wearing of
additional equipment. Users, owners and employers should ensure that equipment is correctly maintained
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A suit system may comprise one or more pieces provided that in all cases it meets the requirements of this
document as a complete system.
A constant wear suit may often be worn with a lifejacket as it will provide extra flotation and can help to
bring a person to a face-up position.

vi
FINAL DRAFT International Standard ISO/FDIS 15027-1:2025(en)
Immersion suits —
Part 1:
Safety and performance requirements for constant wear suits
1 Scope
This document specifies performance and safety requirements for constant wear suits and suit systems
for professional and leisure activities to protect the user against the effects of cold-water immersion, by
reducing cold shock and delaying the onset of hypothermia.
If a suit system includes a personal flotation device (PFD), it provides protection against drowning.
This document is applicable to dry and wet constant wear suits and suit systems.
This document does not apply to abandonment suits. Requirements for abandonment suits are given in
ISO 15027-2:—.
Test methods for immersion suits are given in ISO 15027-3:—.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 105-A02: 1993, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
ISO 105-A02: 1993/ Cor 2:2005, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change
in colour — Technical Corrigendum 2
ISO 105-B04: 2024, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part B04: Colour fastness to artificial weathering:
Xenon arc fading lamp test
ISO 105-E02: 2013, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E02: Colour fastness to sea water
ISO 105-X12: 2016, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part X12: Colour fastness to rubbing
ISO 1421:2016, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tensile strength and elongation at break
ISO 2411:2017, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of coating adhesion
ISO 3801:1977, Textiles — Woven fabrics — Determination of mass per unit length and mass per unit area
ISO 4674-1:2016, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tear resistance — Part 1: Constant rate
of tear methods
ISO 7854:1995, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of resistance to damage by flexing
ISO 9227:2022, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests
ISO 9227:2022/Amd 1:2024, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests — Amendment 1:
Footnote of Warning
ISO 12402-2:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 2: Lifejackets, performance level 275 — Safety requirements

ISO 12402-3:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 3: Lifejackets, performance level 150 — Safety requirements
ISO 12402-4:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 4: Lifejackets, performance level 100 — Safety requirements
ISO 12402-5:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 5: Buoyancy aids (level 50) — Safety requirements
ISO 12402-7:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 7: Materials and components — Safety requirements and
test methods
ISO 12402-8:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 8: Accessories — Safety requirements and test methods
ISO 12402-9:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 9: Evaluation
ISO 13688:2013, Protective clothing — General requirements
ISO 13688:2013/Amd 1:2021, Protective clothing — General requirements — Amendment 1
ISO 13934-1:2013, Textiles — Tensile properties of fabrics — Part 1: Determination of maximum force and
elongation at maximum force using the strip method
ISO 13935-2:2014, Textiles — Seam tensile properties of fabrics and made-up textile articles — Part 2:
Determination of maximum force to seam rupture using the grab method
ISO 13937-4:2000, Textiles — Tear properties of fabrics — Part 4: Determination of tear force of tongue-shaped
test specimens (Double tear test)
1)
ISO 15027-3:— , Immersion suits — Part 3: Test methods
CIE 015:2018, Colorimetry
2)
Resolution MSC. 481(102) adopted by the IMO Assembly to amend the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, Revised recommendation on the use and fitting of retro-reflective materials
on life-saving appliances
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
immersion suit
suit designed to protect the user’s body from the cooling effects of immersion in water
Note 1 to entry: Cooling effects include cold shock (3.17) and hypothermia (3.11).
3.2
constant wear suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to be routinely worn for activities on or near water in anticipation of immersion
in water, but permitting physical activity to such an extent that actions can be undertaken without undue
encumbrance and, thus, the head, hands and feet do not need to be covered
1) Under preparation. This document, ISO 15027-2 and ISO 15027-3 are being developed together and will be published
together. The date will be added just before publication.
2) IMO is the abbreviation for International Maritime Organization, based in London, UK. IMO issues regulations which
are then published as laws by the member states.

3.3
abandonment suit
immersion suit (3.1) including head, hand and feet protection designed to permit rapid donning in the event
of an imminent immersion in water
3.4
dry suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to protect the user against the effect of cold-water immersion by precluding
the entry of water upon immersion
3.5
wet suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to protect the user against the effect of cold-water immersion by providing
insulation and limiting the entry and exit of water upon immersion
3.6
primary suit closure
closure used in the donning of a suit
3.7
secondary suit closure
additional closure which can be operated by the user to enhance the fit of the suit
3.8
retro-reflective material
material that reflects light beams back to their point of origin
3.9
buddy line
length of cord which can be tied or otherwise fixed to another person, or to that person’s personal flotation
device (3.18) or other objects, so as to keep a user in the vicinity of that person or object with a view to
making location and, thus, rescue easier
3.10
clo value
unit to express the relative thermal insulation values of various clothing assemblies
2 –1
Note 1 to entry: One clo is equal to 0,155 K·m ·W .
3.11
hypothermia
condition where body core temperature is below 35 °C
3.12
helicopter transit suit
constant wear suit (3.2) worn by helicopter occupants
3.13
offshore installation
structure or vessel that is permanently or temporarily sited at sea or away from the shore in a fresh water
lake or river and which is not covered by other international regulations
3.14
suit system
immersion suit (3.1) including its components and accessories, and any auxiliary buoyancy or personal
flotation device (3.18)
Note 1 to entry: The storage bag is not part of the suit system.
3.15
underclothing
clothes worn under a suit system (3.14)

3.16
heat strain
increase of body core temperature induced by sustained heat stress which cannot be fully compensated by
temperature regulation, or activation of thermoeffective activities in response to heat stress which cause
sustained changes in the state of other, non-thermal regulatory systems
3.17
cold shock
short transitory phase lasting about 2 min to 3 min upon sudden immersion in cold water and characterized
by an uncontrollable hyperventilation accompanied by other cardiorespiratory distress
3.18
personal flotation device
PFD
garment or device which, when correctly worn and used in water, provides the user with a specific amount
of buoyancy which increases the likelihood of survival
3.19
emergency-position-indicating light
device which emits light so as to increase the chances of the user being located
3.20
work environment
environment in which the user of a suit system (3.14) would engage in normal work
4 Requirements and guidance
4.1 General
4.1.1 A constant wear suit system shall not be damaged or fail in its determined function when tested in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, Clause 4.
When a PFD or auxiliary buoyancy is part of the suit system, it shall be tested and included as part of the suit
system.
4.1.2 The suit system shall be designed so as not to impede the user during normal use, when tested in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.
4.1.3 All suit samples shall undergo temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.3, followed
by the rotating shock bin test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.4.
Following ISO 15027-3:—, 4.3 and ISO 15027-3:—, 4.4, and prior to all remaining tests, cleaning shall be done
according to the specification of the manufacturer in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.11.
Material, fabric and component samples shall be preconditioned as defined in ISO 15027-3:—, 4.1.
4.1.4 The manufacturer shall specify the components of the suit system including components and
accessories, and any auxiliary buoyancy or PFD, and underclothing.
4.1.5 The risk of heat stress and discomfort should be taken into account in the design and use of the suit
system with underclothing. This should be included in the information supplied by the manufacturer by
specific advice or warnings according to Clause 6. This should be evaluated when testing in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
In general, the higher the protection against cold shock and hypothermia, the higher the possibility of heat
strain. The user of a constant wear suit should balance those two effects when choosing a device.

4.1.6 The rotating shock bin test specified in ISO 15027-3:—, 4.4, shall be performed on each suit sample.
There shall be no visible migration of insulation material and no visible wear-and-tear damage after the
rotating shock bin test.
4.1.7 A suit system designed to be used with a lifejacket, shall not prevent the donning of a PFD in
accordance with ISO 12402-2:2020 or ISO 12402-3:2020. The manufacturer of the suit system shall specify
the type of PFD (inflatable or inherent) to be used.
4.1.8 The suit system shall be designed in such a way as to minimize the risk of snagging. Test in accordance
with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
4.1.9 Unless otherwise specified in this document, the sampling rules and subject requirements of
ISO 15027-3:—, Clause 4 (including ISO 15027-3:—, 4.2 and 4.12) apply.
When the number of samples to be tested is “at least [x]” or “a minimum of [x]” that number of [x] samples
shall be tested. Whenever it is possible, material samples shall be taken directly from the suit.
4.1.10 For reporting, all individual and average results shall be reported.
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements
4.2.1 Innocuousness
The suit system shall not adversely affect the health or hygiene of the user. The materials shall not, in
the foreseeable conditions of normal use, release substances generally known to be toxic, carcinogenic,
mutagenic, allergenic, toxic to reproduction or otherwise harmful.
The materials shall meet the requirements of ISO 13688:2013, 4.2, and ISO 13688:2013/Amd 1:2021, 4.2.
NOTE More information can be found in ISO 13688. Carefully selected materials minimize the environmental
impact of the production and disposal of protective clothing (see ISO 13688:2013, Annex F).
4.2.2 Design
The design of the suit system shall facilitate its correct positioning on the user and shall ensure that it
remains in place for the foreseeable period of use. Ambient factors together with the movements and
postures that the wearer is likely to adopt during the course of work or other activity shall be considered.
For this purpose, appropriate means, such as adequate adjustment systems or adequate size ranges shall
be provided to enable the suit system to be adapted to the morphology of the user. Test in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
4.2.3 Comfort
4.2.3.1 The suit system shall provide users with a level of comfort consistent with the level of protection
against hazards for which it is intended, the ambient conditions, the level of the user’s activity, and the
anticipated duration of use of the protective clothing.
The suit system shall not:
— have rough, sharp or hard surfaces that irritate or injure the user;
— be so tight, loose and/or heavy that it restricts normal movement.
This shall be evaluated when testing in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
4.2.3.2 A suit system that imposes significant ergonomic burdens such as heat stress, or is inherently
uncomfortable because of the need to provide adequate protection, should be accompanied by specific

advice or warnings in the information supplied by the manufacturer. Specific advice on the appropriate
duration for continuous use of the clothing in the intended application(s) should be given.
4.3 Accessories
Suit systems may be equipped with accessories. Where applicable, such accessories shall conform to
ISO 12402-8:2020, and shall be tested as a part of the suit system. No accessory shall impair the suit system’s
performance.
If the suit is intended to be used without a PFD, the suit shall be provided with a permanently attached
whistle and a light.
4.4 Gas or air inflation
If any part of the suit relies upon air or gas inflation in order to achieve the performance levels set out in
this document, then each part of the assembly (namely: oral inflation tubes, inflation system and the gas
cylinder) shall be tested in accordance with and conform to the relevant requirements of ISO 12402-7:2020.
The inflatable buoyancy chamber material shall be tested and conform to ISO 12402-7:2020, 4.9.
4.5 Buddy lines
A buddy line, if provided, shall be made from synthetic cord or webbing and shall be at least 1 500 mm
in length. The line shall be attached securely to the suit and have a free end with a releasable means for
attachment to another person or object, such as a loop, a snap hook, or a wooden or plastic toggle. The buddy
line, if provided, shall be readily accessible to one of the user’s hands as confirmed during device testing.
The attachment means and line shall be stowed in such a way that they do not create a hazard or affect the
normal operation of the immersion suit. If hardware is provided as an attachment means, it shall not have
sharp edges. The assembly shall float in fresh water. Hardware on the buddy line shall either not be broken,
or if broken, not expose sharp edges after pull testing. Weathering testing is not required when the buddy
line is normally stowed inside a pocket.
If provided, a buddy line shall be tested in accordance with ISO 12402-9:2020, 5.5.6, and withstand a
(750 ± 50) N load for at least (1 ± 0,1) min without any damage. The force required to separate the buddy line
from the suit shall be greater than 750 N and less than 1 500 N. The separation of the buddy line from the
immersion suit shall not adversely affect the integrity of the immersion suit. This shall be verified by visual
inspection.
The buddy line, if provided, shall be in accordance with ISO 12402-8:2020, 5.4.
4.6 Conspicuity
4.6.1 Colour
4.6.1.1 A constant wear suit may be any colour.
4.6.1.2 Where colour is required for search and rescue:
a) the colour of the exposed portions (excluding components such as webbing, zips and other fittings) of
the suit when deployed in the face-up floating position shall be in the colour range from yellow to red;
b) the chromaticity coordinates for non-fluorescent colours shall lie within one of the areas defined in
Table 1;
c) the luminance factor shall exceed the corresponding value in Table 1.
The chromaticity coordinates and the luminance factor for fluorescent colours shall conform to Table 2.

The face-up floating position can be defined during an in-water test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—,
4.16.3.
Where colour does not aid search and rescue, other means of detection shall be provided.
Table 1 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, orange and red non-
fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,389 0,610
0,320 0,490
Yellow > 0,35
0,405 0,400
0,500 0,500
0,500 0,500
0,405 0,400
Orange > 0,25
0,470 0,330
0,600 0,400
0,610 0,400
0,470 0,330
Red > 0,15
0,525 0,270
0,700 0,300
Table 2 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, yellow-orange,
orange, orange-red and red fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,380 0,610
0,320 0,490
Fluorescent yellow > 0,60
0,370 0,440
0,440 0,550
0,440 0,550
0,370 0,440
Fluorescent yellow-orange > 0,50
0,420 0,390
0,505 0,490
0,505 0,490
0,420 0,390
Fluorescent orange > 0,40
0,460 0,350
0,575 0,425
0,575 0,425
0,460 0,350
Fluorescent orange-red > 0,30
0,488 0,320
0,630 0,360
0,630 0,360
0,488 0,320
Fluorescent red > 0,20
0,525 0,280
0,695 0,300
4.6.1.3 The colour of the material samples shall be measured with the procedures defined in CIE 015:2018
with polychromatic illumination D65 and 45°/0° geometry and 2° standard observer. The specimen shall
have a black underlay with reflectance of less than 0,04. The specimens shall be conditioned for at least 24 h
at (20 ± 2) °C and (65 ± 5) % relative humidity. If the test is carried out in other conditions, the test shall be
conducted within 5 min after withdrawal from the conditioning atmosphere.
4.6.1.4 The colour fastness (dry and wet) of immersion suit material shall be determined in accordance
with ISO 105-A02: 1993 and ISO 105-A02: 1993/ Cor 2:2005. The resistance to rubbing (wet and dry) shall be

tested in accordance with ISO 105-X12: 2016 to at least step 4. The resistance to salt water shall be tested in
accordance with ISO 105-E02: 2013 to at least step 4.
4.6.2 Retro-reflective material
A passive light system of retro-reflective material shall be provided with the suit system. This shall conform
to the specification detailed in IMO Resolution MSC. 481(102), Annex 2.
A total area of not less than 400 cm shall be provided with the suit system.
At least 100 cm of retro-reflective material shall be affixed to the hood, if a hood is provided, and in addition,
at least 250 cm shall be clear of the water and visible in the suit’s normal in-water position as tested in
ISO 15027-3:—, 4.16.4.1. At least one piece of 50 cm shall be affixed to the back of the suit.
The performance of the retro-reflective material shall not be degraded by the method used to apply it to the
suit. Test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.16.4.2.
4.6.3 Emergency-position-indicating lights
An active light system may also be provided. This shall conform to the requirements for emergency lights in
accordance with ISO 12402-8:2020.
4.7 Foam flotation material
Foam flotation material used to assist the buoyancy performance of the suit system shall be tested in
accordance with and conform to ISO 12402-7:2020, 4.8.
The buoyancy of the suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall be tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—
, 4.7. The buoyancy measurement after 24 h shall not exceed 5 % buoyancy loss of the original buoyancy.
4.8 Flammability
The suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall neither be consumed, nor sustain burning, nor continue
melting 6 s after being removed from the flames, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.10.
4.9 Temperature cycling
The suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall be resistant to damage caused by changes in ambient
temperature.
After temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.3, the suit system shall show no visible
damage to the external and internal construction components, such as shrinking, cracking, swelling,
dissolution or change of mechanical qualities.
4.10 Water ingress
The water ingress of a dry suit during jumping shall be measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.13.1,
and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 500 g in each test subject.
The water ingress of a dry suit during swimming shall be measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—,
4.13.2, and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 200 g in each test subject.
4.11 Thermal protection in water
The suit system with the underclothing specified by the manufacturer, or with standard underclothing in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.2.2, shall provide the user with thermal protection in a hydrostatical
compressed state as defined by its flotation position. This document recognizes the need for different levels
of thermal protection depending upon the water temperature in which the suit will be used. The conditions
of thermal protection are shown in Table 3.

Table 3 — Suit thermal performance levels
a
Suit performance level
Parameter
b c
A B C D E
Duration (h) 6 4 2 2 1
Water temperature (°C) 2 2 5 10 5
Immersed clo value 0,75 0,60 0,33 0,25 0,16
(minimum)
a
Tests are performed in calm water. Rough conditions (e.g. wind, waves) decrease the stated period of immersion.
b
Equivalent to SOLAS insulated immersion suit, when tested at a water temperature of maximum 2 °C.
c
Equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit.
There are two options for measuring the thermal protection, as follows:
a) Using a thermal manikin, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.2;
When tested with a thermal manikin in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.2, the average clo value of
the three measurements of the same suit system shall not be less than the values indicated in Table 3.
b) using human test subjects, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.3.
When testing with human test subjects, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.3, none of the six human
test subjects’ core temperatures shall fall more than 2 °C. Each human test subject’s skin temperature
shall not be lower than 10 °C for a time period of more than 15 min. If either of these two requirements
is not fulfilled, the suit system is deemed to have failed.
NOTE 1 See Annex A for more information on thermal protection time.
NOTE 2 When it is necessary to determine the thermal insulation identification, for the purpose of changing or
modifying the thermal layer(s) of the suit, see ISO 15027-3:—, Annex E.
4.12 Performance requirements
4.12.1 Donning
When tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.2.1.2, it shall be possible to don the suit system, and
secure all primary suits closures, within 5 min in each test subject.
Where the suit system includes an inflatable element integrated into the suit, the 5 min donning time shall
include inflation of the inflatable element.
Where the suit system includes a separate PFD, the 5 min donning time shall include donning of the
uninflated PFD and subsequent inflation.
There shall not be any damage to the suit system after donning.
Suits for helicopter transit flights shall also be tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.2.2.
4.12.2 Walking
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to walk easily as tested in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.3.1. The average time for each human test subject wearing the suit shall not be more
than 10 % greater than their average time without the suit.
4.12.3 Climbing
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to climb freely as tested in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.4.1. The average time for each human test subject wearing the suit shall not be more
than 10 % greater than their average time without the suit.

4.12.4 Dexterity and mobility
For each test subject, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.15.5, the suit system shall not
hinder the user’s dexterity or mobility. The design shall ensure that protected parts of the body do not get
uncovered by expected movements by the user.
4.12.5 Hand protection
When hand protection is provided as part of the system, each test subject wearing the suit system
...

ISO/TC 188/SC 1
Secretariat: AFNOR
Third edition
Date: 2024-04-092025-12-17
Immersion suits —
Part 1: Constant wear suits,
Safety and performance requirements including safetyfor constant
wear suits
Combinaisons de protection thermique en cas d'immersion — —
Partie 1: CombinaisonsExigences de sécurité et de performance pour les combinaisons de port permanent,
exigences y compris la sécurité
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All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication
may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO
at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: + 41 22 749 01 11
E-mail: [e-mail]
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii
Contents
Foreword . iv
Introduction . vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 3
4 Requirements and guidance . 5
4.1 General . 5
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements . 6
4.3 Accessories . 6
4.4 Gas or air inflation . 6
4.5 Buddy lines . 7
4.6 Conspicuity . 7
4.7 Foam flotation material . 10
4.8 Flammability . 10
4.9 Temperature cycling . 10
4.10 Water ingress . 10
4.11 Thermal protection in water . 10
4.12 Performance requirements . 11
4.13 Requirements on materials, fabrics and components . 13
4.14 Strength . 14
5 Marking . 15
6 Information supplied by the manufacturer . 16
7 Consumer information at point of sale . 17
7.1 Data list . 17
7.2 Consumer information label . 17
Annex A (informative) Information for manufacturers, users, regulators and industrial
inspectors about immersion suits on the application of thermal protection times
relevant to the ISO 15027 series . 19
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
requirements of Regulation 2016/425 aimed to be covered . 22
Bibliography . 24

iii
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types of
ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights
in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received notice of (a) patent(s)
which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not
represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 188, Small craft, Subcommittee SC 1, Personal
safety equipment, in collaboration with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) Technical
Committee CEN/TC 162, Protective clothing including hand and arm protection and lifejackets, in accordance
with the Agreement on technical cooperation between ISO and CEN (Vienna Agreement).
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 15027-1:2012), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— Termsthe terms and conditionsdefinitions have been revised;
— in 4.3In 4.3,, requirements for other optional accessories have been added;
— in Table 3In Table 3,, a new thermal performance level E, equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit,
has been added;
— in Table 3In Table 3,, minimum immersed CLOclo values to suit performance levels have been added;
— in 4.12In 4.12,, the performance requirements have been re-ordered to improve the order of testing;
— in 4.12.5In 4.12.5,, the missing donning time for hand protection has been added;
— in Clause 5In Clause 5,, the warnings have been revised;
— in Clause 7In clause 7,, the consumer information has been revised;
iv
— Annex A has been revised.
A list of all parts in the ISO 15027 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
v
Introduction
This document has been prepared to meet the needs of persons engaged in certain activities on or near water.
Constant wear suits are used to provide protection in the event of accidental immersion, to prolong life and to
aid rescue. An individual’s estimated thermal protection time when wearing this type of equipment depends
upon the water temperature, weather conditions, clothing, the cold tolerance of the person and the person’s
behaviour. This document specifies the minimum levels of insulation provided by the different ranges of suit
in particular water temperatures.
This document allows for thermal protection to be provided by a variety of methods and materials, some of
which can require action when the suit enters the water (e.g. inflation of chambers by gas from a cylinder).
The complianceconformity of a constant wear suit with this part of ISO 15027document does not imply that it
is suitable for all circumstances. This part of ISO 15027document cannot make detailed provision for all the
special uses to which a constant wear suit maycan be put, such as special working conditions, i.e. slip
resistance or fire resistance or special leisure applications.
This document is intended to serve as a minimum performance requirement for manufacturers, purchasers
and users of constant wear suits by ensuring that they provide an effective standard of performance in use.
Designers should encourage the wearing of this equipment by making it comfortable and functional for
continuous wear on or near water.
The primary aims in wearing a constant wear suit are:
a) to reduce the risk of cold shock and to delay the onset of hypothermia;
b) to enable users to propel themselves in the water and extricate themselves from the water without it
becoming an encumbrance;
c) to make users sufficiently conspicuous in the water so as to aid their recovery.
The performance of the suit can be altered by a number of factors, including wave action or the wearing of
additional equipment. Users, owners and employers should ensure that equipment is correctly maintained
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A suit system may comprise one or more pieces provided that in all cases it meets the requirements of this
document as a complete system.
A constant wear suit may often be worn with a lifejacket as it will provide extra flotation and maycan help to
bring a person to a face-up position.
vi
Immersion suits — —
Part 1: Constant wear suits,
Safety and performance requirements including safetyfor constant
wear suits
1 Scope
This document specifies performance and safety requirements for constant wear immersion suits and suit
systems for professional and leisure activities to protect the user against the effects of cold-water immersion,
by reducing cold shock and delaying the onset of hypothermia.
If a suit system includes a personal flotation device (PFD), it provides protection against drowning.
ItThis document is applicable forto dry and wet constant wear immersion suits and suit systems.
Abandonment suits areThis document does not covered by this document.apply to abandonment suits.
Requirements for abandonment suits are given in ISO 15027-2:202x. :—.
Test methods for immersion suits are given in ISO 15027-3:202x.:—.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
CIE 015:2018, Colorimetry
ISO 105-A02:1993, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
ISO 105-B04: —, —
ISO 105-E02A02:1993/Cor 2:2005, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E02: Colour fastness to sea water
A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour — Technical Corrigendum 2
ISO 105-X12B04:2024, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part B04: Colour fastness to artificial weathering:
Xenon arc fading lamp test
ISO 105-E02:2013, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E02: Colour fastness to sea water
ISO 105-X12:2016, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part X12: Colour fastness to rubbing
ISO 188, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic — Accelerated ageing and heat resistance tests
ISO 1421:2016, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tensile strength and elongation at break
ISO 2411:2017, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of coating adhesion
ISO 3801:1977, Textiles — Woven fabrics — Determination of mass per unit length and mass per unit area
ISO 4674-1:2016, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tear resistance — Part 1: Constant rate
of tear methods
ISO 7854:1995, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of resistance to damage by flexing
ISO 9227:2022, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests
ISO 12401:2009, Small craft — Deck safety harness and safety line — Safety requirements and test methods
ISO 9227:2022/Amd 1:2024, Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests — Amendment 1:
Footnote of Warning
ISO 12402-2:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 2: Lifejackets, performance level 275 — Safety
requirements
ISO 12402-3:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 3: Lifejackets, performance level 150 — Safety
requirements
ISO 12402-4:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 4: Lifejackets, performance level 100 — Safety
requirements
ISO 12402-5:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 5: Buoyancy aids (level 50) — Safety requirements
ISO 12402-7:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 7: Materials and components — Safety requirements and
test methods
ISO 12402-8:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 8: Accessories — Safety requirements and test methods
ISO 12402-9:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 9: Test methodsEvaluation
ISO 13688:2013, Protective clothing –— General requirements
ISO 13688:2013/Amd 1:2021, Protective clothing — General requirements — Amendment 1
ISO 13934-1:2013, Textiles — Tensile properties of fabrics — Part 1: Determination of maximum force and
elongation at maximum force using the strip method
ISO 13935-2:2014, Textiles — Seam tensile properties of fabrics and made-up textile articles — Part 2:
Determination of maximum force to seam rupture using the grab method
ISO 13937-4:2000, Textiles — Tear properties of fabrics — Part 4: Determination of tear force of tongue-shaped
test specimens (Double tear test)
1)
ISO 15027-3:2020,:— , Immersion suits — Part 3: Test methods
CIE 015:2018, Colorimetry
12)
Resolution MSC. 481(102) adopted by the IMO Assembly to amend the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, Revised recommendation on the use and fitting of retro-reflective materials
on life-saving appliances
1)
Under preparation. This document, ISO 15027-2 and ISO 15027-3 are being developed together and will be published
together. The date will be added just before publication.
IMO is the abbreviation for International Maritime Organization, based in London, UK. IMO issues
regulations which are then published as laws by the member states.
2)
IMO is the abbreviation for International Maritime Organization, based in London, UK. IMO issues regulations which
are then published as laws by the member states.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
immersion suit
suit designed to protect the user’s body from the cooling effects of immersion in water
Note 1 to entry: Cooling effects include cold shock (3.17) and hypothermia (3.11).
3.2
constant wear suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to be routinely worn for activities on or near water in anticipation of immersion
in water, but permitting physical activity to such an extent that actions can be undertaken without undue
encumbrance and, thus, the head, hands and feet do not need notto be covered
3.3
abandonment suit
immersion suit (3.1) including head, hand and feet protection designed to permit rapid donning in the event
of an imminent immersion in water
3.4
dry suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to protect the user against the effect of cold-water immersion by precluding the
entry of water upon immersion
3.5
wet suit
immersion suit (3.1) designed to protect the user against the effect of cold-water immersion by providing
insulation and limiting the entry and exit of water upon immersion
3.6
primary suit closure
3.6closure used in the donning of a suit
3.7
secondary suit closure
additional closure which can be operated by the user to enhance the fit of the suit
3.8
retro-reflective material
material that reflects light beams back to their point of origin
3.9
buddy line
length of cord which can be tied or otherwise fixed to another person, or to that person’s personal flotation
device (3.18) or other objects, so as to keep a user in the vicinity of that person or object with a view to making
location and, thus, rescue easier

3.10
clo value
unit to express the relative thermal insulation values of various clothing assemblies
2 2 –1
Note 1 to entry: One clo is equal to 0,155 Km K·m ·W .
3.11 3
hypothermia
condition where body core temperature is below 35 °C
3.12
helicopter transit suit
constant wear suit (3.2) worn by helicopter occupants
3.13
offshore installation
structure or vessel that is permanently or temporarily sited at sea or away from the shore in a fresh water
lake or river and which is not covered by other international regulations
3.14
suit system
immersion suit (3.1) including its components and accessories, and any auxiliary buoyancy, or personal
flotation device (3.18(PFD) )
Note 1 to entry: The storage bag is not part of the suit system.
3.15
underclothing
clothes worn under thea suit system (3.14)
3.16
heat strain
increase of body core temperature induced by sustained heat stress which cannot be fully compensated by
temperature regulation, or activation of thermoeffective activities in response to heat stress which cause
sustained changes in the state of other, nonthermal,non-thermal regulatory systems
3.17
cold shock
short transitory phase lasting about 2 min to 3 min upon sudden immersion in cold water and characterized
by an uncontrollable hyperventilation accompanied by other cardio-respiratorycardiorespiratory distress
3.18
personal flotation device
(PFD)
garment or device which, when correctly worn and used in water, provides the user with a specific amount of
buoyancy which increases the likelihood of survival
3.19
primary suit closure
closure used in the donning of the suit
3.19 3.20
emergency-position-indicating light
device which emits light so as to increase the chances of athe user being located
3.20 3.21
work environment
environment in which the user of a suit system (3.14) would engage in normal work
4 Requirements and guidance
4.1 General
4.1.1 A constant wear suit system shall not be damaged or fail in its determined function when tested in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, Clause 4.
When a personal flotation device (PFD) or auxiliary buoyancy is part of the suit system, it shall be tested and
included as part of the suit system.
4.1.2 The suit system shall be designed so as not to impede the user during normal use, when tested in
accordance with ISO 15027-3,:—, 4.15.
4.1.3 All suit samples shall undergo temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020:—, 4.3,
followed by the rotating shock bin test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020, :—, 4.4.4.
Following ISO 15027-3:2020:—, 4.3 and ISO 15027-3:2020:—, 4.4, and prior to all remaining tests, cleaning
shall be done according to the specification of the manufacturer in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020:—,
4.11.
Material, fabric and component samples shall undergo temperature cyclingbe preconditioned as defined in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.3, followed by cleaning according to the specification of the
manufacturer in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020, 4.11, prior to all remaining tests.
4.1.
4.1.4 4 The manufacturer shall specify the components of the suit system including components and
accessories, and any auxiliary buoyancy, or personal flotation device (PFD),, and underclothing.
4.1.5 The risk of heat stress and discomfort shallshould be taken into account in the design and use of the
suit system with underclothing. This should be included in the information supplied by the manufacturer by
specific advice or warnings according to Clause 6. This shallshould be evaluated when testing in accordance
with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
NOTE In general, the higher the protection against cold shock and hypothermia, the higher the
possibility of heat strain is. The user of a constant wear suit should balance those two effects when choosing a
device.
4.1.6 The rotating shock bin test specified in ISO 15027-3:2020, :—, 4.4.4, shall be performed on each suit
sample. There shall be no visible migration of insulation material and no visible wear-and-tear damage after
the rotating shock bin test.
4.1.7 A suit system designed to be used with a lifejacket, shall not prevent the donning of a PFD in
accordance with ISO 12402-2:2020 or ISO 12402-3:2020. The manufacturer of the suit system shall specify
the type of PFD (inflatable or inherent) to be used.
4.1.8 The suit system shall be designed in such a way as to minimize the risk of snagging. Test in accordance
with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
4.1.9 Unless otherwise specified in this document, the sampling rules and subject requirements of
ISO 15027-3:—, Clause 4 (including ISO 15027-3:—, 4.2 and 4.12) apply.
When the number of samples to be tested is “at least [x]” or “a minimum of [x]” that number of [x] samples
shall be tested. Whenever it is possible, material samples shall be taken directly from the suit.
4.1.10 For reporting, all individual and average results shall be reported.
4.2 Basic health and ergonomic requirements
4.2.1 Innocuousness
The suit system shall not adversely affect the health or hygiene of the user. The materials shall not, in the
foreseeable conditions of normal use, release substances generally known to be toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic,
allergenic, toxic to reproduction or otherwise harmful.
The materials shall meet the requirements of ISO 13688:2013, 4.2., and ISO 13688:2013/Amd 1:2021, 4.2.
NOTE More information can be found in ISO 13688. Carefully selected materials minimize the environmental impact
of the production and disposal of protective clothing (see ISO 13688:2013, Annex F).
4.2.2 Design
The design of the suit system shall facilitate its correct positioning on the user and shall ensure that it remains
in place for the foreseeable period of use. Ambient factors together with the movements and postures that the
wearer is likely to adopt during the course of work or other activity shall be considered. For this purpose,
appropriate means, such as adequate adjustment systems or adequate size ranges shall be provided to enable
the suit system to be adapted to the morphology of the user. Test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—,
4.15 and 4.16.
4.2.3 Comfort
4.2.3.1 The suit system shall provide users with a level of comfort consistent with the level of protection
against hazards for which it is intended, the ambient conditions, the level of the user’s activity, and the
anticipated duration of use of the protective clothing.
The suit system shall not:
— have rough, sharp or hard surfaces that irritate or injure the user;
— be so tight, loose and/or heavy that it restricts normal movement.
This shall be evaluated when testing in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15 and 4.16.
4.2.3.2 A suit system that imposes significant ergonomic burdens such as heat stress, or is inherently
uncomfortable because of the need to provide adequate protection, should be accompanied by specific advice
or warnings in the information supplied by the manufacturer. Specific advice on the appropriate duration for
continuous use of the clothing in the intended application(s) should be given.
4.3 Accessories
Suit systems may be equipped with accessories. Where applicable, such accessories shall comply withconform
to ISO 12402-8:2020, and shall be tested as a part of the suit system. No accessory shall impair the suit
system’s performance.
If the suit is intended to be used without a personal flotation device (PFD),PFD, the suit shall be provided with
a permanently attached whistle and a light.
4.4 Gas or air inflation
If any part of the suit relies upon air or gas inflation in order to achieve the performance levels set out withinin
this part of ISO 15027document, then each part of the assembly — (namely: oral inflation tubes, inflation
system and the gas cylinder —) shall be tested in accordance to and comply with and conform to the relevant
requirements of ISO12402ISO 12402-7:2020.
The inflatable buoyancy chamber material shall be tested and comply withconform to ISO 12402-7:2020, 4.9.
4.5 Buddy lines
A buddy line, if provided, shall be made from synthetic cord or webbing and shall be at least 1 500 mm in
length. The line shall be attached securely to the suit and have a free end with a releasable means for
attachment to another person or object, such as a loop, a snap hook, or a wooden or plastic toggle. The buddy
line, if provided, shall be readily accessible to one of the user'suser’s hands as confirmed during device testing.
The attachment means and line shall be stowed in such a way that they do not create a hazard or affect the
normal operation of the immersion suit. If hardware is provided as an attachment means, it shall not have
sharp edges. The assembly shall float in fresh water. Hardware on the buddy line shall either not be broken,
or if broken, not expose sharp edges after pull testing. Weathering testing is not required when the buddy line
is normally stowed inside a pocket.
If provided, a buddy line shall be tested in accordance with ISO 12402-9:2020, 5.5.6, and withstand a
(750 ± 50) N load for at least ((1 ± ± 0.,1) min without any damage. The force required to separate the buddy
line from the suit shall be greater than 750 N and less than 1 500 N. The separation of the buddy line from the
immersion suit shall not adversely affect the integrity of the immersion suit. This shall be verified by visual
inspection.
The buddy line, if provided, shall be in accordance with ISO 12402-8:2020, 5.4.
4.6 Conspicuity
4.6.1 Colour
4.6.1.1 A constant wear immersion suit may be any colour.
4.6.1.2 Where colour is required for search and rescue:
a) the colour of the exposed portions (excluding components such as webbing, zips and other fittings) of the
suit when deployed in the face-up floating position shall be in the colour range from yellow to red, ;
b) the chromaticity coordinates for non-fluorescent colours shall lie within one of the areas defined in
Table 1Table 1, and ;
c) the luminance factor shall exceed the corresponding value in Table 1.
The chromaticity coordinates and the luminance factor for fluorescent colours shall conform to Table 2comply
with Table 2.
The face-up floating position iscan be defined during an in-water test according to in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:202x,:—, 4.16.3.
Where colour does not aid search and rescue, other means of detection shall be provided.
4.6.Table 1 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, orange and red
non-fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,389 0,610
0,320 0,490
Yellow > 0,35
0,405 0,400
0,500 0,500
0,500 0,500
0,405 0,400
Orange > 0,25
0,470 0,330
0,600 0,400
0,610 0,400
0,470 0,330
Red > 0,15
0,525 0,270
0,700 0,300
Table 2 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, yellow-orange, orange,
orange-red and red fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
.2
0,380 0,610
0,320 0,490
Fluorescent yellow > 0,60
0,370 0,440
0,440 0,550
0,440 0,550
0,370 0,440
Fluorescent yellow-orange > 0,50
0,420 0,390
0,505 0,490
0,505 0,490
0,420 0,390
Fluorescent orange > 0,40
0,460 0,350
0,575 0,425
0,575 0,425
0,460 0,350
Fluorescent orange-red > 0,30
0,488 0,320
0,630 0,360
0,630 0,360
0,488 0,320
Fluorescent red > 0,20
0,525 0,280
0,695 0,300
4.6.1.3 The colour of the material samples shall be measured with the procedures defined in
CIE 15:2004015:2018 with polychromatic illumination D65 and 45/°/0° geometry and 2° standard observer.
The specimen shall have a black underlay with reflectance of less than 0,04. The specimens shall be
conditioned for at least 24 h at (20 ± 2) °C and (65 ± 5) % relative humidity. If the test is carried out in other
conditions, the test shall be conducted within 5 min after withdrawal from the conditioning atmosphere.
4.6.1.4
4.6.1.54.6.1.4 4.6.1.3 The colour fastness (dry and wet) of immersion suit material shall be
determined in accordance with ISO 105--A02.:1993 and ISO 105-A02:1993/Cor 2:2005. The resistance to
rubbing (wet and dry) shall be tested in accordance with ISO 105--X12:2016 to at least step 4. The resistance
to salt water shall be tested in accordance with ISO 105--E02:2013 to at least step 4.
Table 1 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, orange and red
non-fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,389 0,610
0,320 0,490
Yellow >0,35
0,405 0,400
0,500 0,500
0,500 0,500
0,405 0,400
Orange >0,25
0,470 0,330
0,600 0,400
0,610 0,400
0,470 0,330
Red >0,15
0,525 0,270
0,700 0,300
Table 2 — Chromaticity coordinates x and y and luminance factor β for yellow, yellow-orange, orange,
orange-red and red fluorescent colours of suit material
Chromaticity coordinates Luminance factor
Colour
x y β
0,380 0,610
0,320 0,490
Fluorescent yellow >0,60
0,370 0,440
0,440 0,550
0,440 0,550
Fluorescent yellow- 0,370 0,440
>0,50
orange 0,420 0,390
0,505 0,490
0,505 0,490
0,420 0,390
Fluorescent orange >0,40
0,460 0,350
0,575 0,425
0,575 0,425
0,460 0,350
Fluorescent orange-red >0,30
0,488 0,320
0,630 0,360
0,630 0,360
0,488 0,320
Fluorescent red >0,20
0,525 0,280
0,695 0,300
4.6.2 Retro-reflective material
A passive light system of retro-reflective material shall be provided with the suit system. This shall conform
to the specification detailed in IMO Resolution MSC. 481(102), Annex 2.
A total area of not less than 400 cm shall be provided with the suit system.
At least 100 cm of retro-reflective material shall be affixed to the hood, if a hood is provided, and in addition,
at least 250 cm shall be clear of the water and visible in the suit'ssuit’s normal in--water position as tested in
ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.4.1. At least one piece of 50 cm shall be affixed to the back of the suit.
The performance of the retro-reflective material shall not be degraded by the method used to apply it to the
suit. Test in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.4.2.
4.6.3 Emergency-position-indicating -lights
An active light system may also be provided. This shall conform to the requirements for emergency lights
according toin accordance with ISO 12402--8:2020.
4.7 Foam flotation material
Foam flotation material used to assist the buoyancy performance of the suit system shall be tested in
accordance with and comply withconform to ISO 12402-7:2020, 4.8.
The buoyancy of the suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall be tested in accordance with ISO 15027-
3:2020,:—, 4.7. The buoyancy measurement after 24 h shall not exceed 5 % buoyancy loss of the original
buoyancy.
4.8 Flammability
The suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall neither be consumed, nor sustain burning, nor continue
melting 6 s after being removed from the flames, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.10.
4.9 Temperature cycling
The suit system, excluding a separate PFD, shall be resistant to damage caused by changes in ambient
temperature.
After temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.3, the suit system shall show no visible
damage to the external and internal construction components, such as shrinking, cracking, swelling,
dissolution or change of mechanical qualities.
4.10 Water ingress
The water ingress of a dry suit during jumping shall be measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—,
4.13.1, and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 500 g in each test subject.
The water ingress of a dry suit during swimming shall be measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—
, 4.13.2, and the mass of measured water shall not exceed 200 g in each test subject.
4.11 Thermal protection in water
The suit system with the underclothing specified by the manufacturer, or with standard underclothing
according toin accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.14.1.2.2, shall provide the user with thermal
protection in a hydrostatical compressed state as defined by its flotation position. This part of
ISO 15027document recognizes the need for different levels of thermal protection depending upon the water
temperature in which the suit will be used. The conditions of thermal protection are shown in Table 3Table 3.
.
NOTE See Annex A for more information on thermal protection time.
Table 3 — Suit thermal performance levels
a
Suit performance level
Parameter
b c
A B C D E
Duration (h) 6 4 2 2 1
Water temperature (°C) 2 2 5 10 5
Immersed CLO 0,75 0,60 0,33 0,25 0,16
clo value
(minimum)
a Tests are performed in calm water. Rough conditions (e.g. wind, waves) decrease the stated period of immersion.
b Equivalent to SOLAS insulated immersion suit, when tested at a water temperature of maximum 2 °C.
c Equivalent to SOLAS uninsulated immersion suit.
There are two options for measuring the thermal protection, as follows:
a) usingUsing a thermal manikin, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.14.12;
When tested with a thermal manikin in accordance with ISO 15027-3:—, 4.14.12, the Clo-average
clo value of the three measurements of the same suit system shall not be less than the values indicated in
Table 3.
b) using human test subjects, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.14.23.
When testing with human test subjects, in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.14.23, none of the six
human test subjects'subjects’ core temperatures shall fall more than 2 °C. Each human test
subject'ssubject’s skin temperature shall not be lower than 10 °C for a time period of more than 15 min.
If either of these two requirements is not fulfilled, the suit system is deemed to have failed.
NOTE 1 See Annex A for more information on thermal protection time.
NOTE 2 When it is necessary to determine the thermal insulation identification, for the purpose of changing or
modifying the thermal layer(s) of the suit, see ISO 15027-3:—, Annex E.
4.12 Performance requirements
4.12.1 Donning
When tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15.2.1 b),.2, it shall be possible to don the suit system,
and secure all primary suits closures, within 5 min. in each test subject.
Where the suit system includes an inflatable element integrated into the suit, the 5 min donning time shall
include inflation of the inflatable element.
Where the suit system includes a separate PFD, the 5 min donning time shall include donning of the uninflated
PFD and subsequent inflation.
There shall not be noany damage to the suit system after donning.
Suits for helicopter transit flights shall also be tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15.2.2.
4.12.2 Walking
A user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to walk easily as tested in accordance with
ISO 15027-3:2020, 4.15.3.1:—, 4.15.3.1. The average time for each human test subject wearing the suit shall
not be more than 10 % greater than their average time without the suit.
4.12.3 Climbing
Tear strengthA user wearing the suit system correctly donned shall be able to climb freely as tested in
accordance with ISO 4674- 15027-3:—, 4.15.4.1:2016, Method A, and. The average time for each human test
subject wearing the suit shall not be lessmore than 25 N10 % greater than their average time without the suit.
4.12.4 Dexterity and mobility
WhenFor each test subject, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.15.5, the suit system, shall
not hinder the user'suser’s dexterity or mobility. The design shall ensure that protected parts of the body do
not get uncovered by expected movements by the user.
4.12.5 Hand protection
When hand protection is provided as part of the system, a personeach test subject wearing the suit system
correctly donned shall be able to remove the hand protection from storage and don the hand protection within
3 min when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.2.2.
4.12.6 Jump test
A userEach test subject wearing a suit system correctly donned shall be able to jump vertically feet first into
+  0,5
water from a height of ()(4,5 ) m. The suit shall not be dislodged or damaged by the jump or cause harm
to the test subject, when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.1.
4.12.7 Secondary donning
The userEach test subject shall be able to secure any secondary suit closures (if fitted) within 2 min. This shall
be tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.2.1.
4.12.8 Swim and boarding
A userEach test subject wearing a suit system correctly donned, with both primary and secondary (if fitted)
suit closure systems secured, shall be able to swim and tothen board a platform or life raft. within 5 min. Test
in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.16.6.
4.12.9 Flotation and righting
4.12.9.1 Floating position
A userEach test subject wearing the suit system correctly donned, with both the primary and secondary suit
closure systems activated (if fitted), shall be able to adopt a face-up position in water in not more than 5 s and
remain in that position without any movement from the user when testing in accordance with ISO 15027-
3:2020,:—, 4.16.3.
Where the constant wear suit system is claimed to provide flotation, the freeboard for each test subject shall
meet the requirements specified in ISO 12402-2:2020, ISO 12402-3:2020, ISO 12402-4:2020 or ISO 12402-
5:2020, depending on the performance level of the suit system specified by the manufacturer, when tested in
accordance with ISO 12402-9:2020, 5.6.5.
4.12.9.2 Avoiding entrapment
The escape buoyancy of the suit system, with the suit fully vented, shall be no more than 150 N N in each test
subject when measured in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.17.2.
NOTE This requirement is to prevent the entrapment of the user in the helicopter in an emergency.
4.12.10 Field of vision
The suit system, shall not prevent the user from having an acceptable field of vision. The lateral and the vertical
field of vision shall be at least 120° in each test subject when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—
, 4.16.5. Accessories shall not prevent the user from having an acceptable field of vision.
4.12.11 Helicopter escape
DuringFor each test subject during the escape procedure, no part of the suit system shall cause a significant
hindrance when tested in accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.17.1.
4.13 Requirements on materials, fabrics and components
4.13.1 Fuel resistance
Samples of material, seams and components of the suit shall withstand the tests in accordance with ISO 15027-
3:2020,:—, 4.6, after having been submitted to the temperature cycling in accordance with ISO 15027-
3:2020,:—, 4.3.
After the fuel resistance test, the tensile seam strength shall be at least 150 N in each sample when tested in
accordance with ISO 15027-3:2020,:—, 4.5.
4.13.2 Resistance to illumination
Suit materials shall be tested for their resistance to illumination in accordance with ISO 105-B04:2024.
Illumination shall have a numerical rating of 5-6 with 1/2 unit tolerance. Materials, which are screened by
some form of cover when in normal use, shall not undergo illumination testing.
Following exposure to illumination, the tensile seam strength shall be at least 300N300 N in each sample when
tested in accordance with ISO 13935-2. :2014.
4.13.3 Tensile strength of seams
The tensile strength of the seams shall be at least 300 N
...