Types 5 and 6, and what they cover
Disposable protective clothing is classified by Type. Type 5 is tested against airborne solid particles, meaning dust, fibres and powder. Type 6 is tested against limited liquid splash, meaning light spray and mist rather than immersion.
Most industrial coveralls are certified as Type 5/6 together, which covers the large majority of general dusty and lightly wet work. Anything involving pressurised liquid, significant chemical volume or hazardous substances needs a higher Type, and that is a different garment from a different source.
SMS or microporous
SMS stands for spunbond meltblown spunbond, a three-layer non-woven fabric. It breathes noticeably better and is the more comfortable choice for a full shift, particularly in heat. Its liquid barrier is adequate rather than strong.
Microporous fabric is a film laminate. Much better liquid and particle barrier, considerably less breathable. Use it where the splash risk is real and accept that workers will need more breaks.
That trade decides most orders. A crew in a microporous suit on a hot day will unzip it, and an unzipped coverall protects nothing.
Details that matter
Elasticated hood, cuffs, ankles and waist are what keep particles out. A coverall with plain openings lets dust in at every gap.
A storm flap over the zip stops the zipper line becoming the weak point. Attached boot covers save a separate item and remove the gap at the ankle. Thumb loops stop the sleeve riding up when a worker raises their arms, which is when most wrist exposure happens.
Sizing and disposal
Order up. These are worn over workwear, and a coverall that splits at the shoulder when someone reaches overhead has failed. A tight suit also restricts movement enough that workers cut the cuffs, which defeats the seal.
Treat them as single-use in any contaminated environment. Reusing a suit carries the contamination back out with it.
Buying coveralls in bulk
Consumable, and easy to underestimate. Count on one suit per worker per shift in a dusty environment, more if crews are in and out of a controlled area.
Send us your headcount, shift pattern and whether the hazard is dust or splash, and we will size the order and quote volume breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Type 5/6 mean on a coverall?
Type 5 is tested against airborne solid particles like dust and fibres. Type 6 is tested against limited liquid splash. Most industrial coveralls carry both.
What is the difference between SMS and microporous?
SMS breathes far better and suits full-shift wear in heat. Microporous gives a stronger liquid barrier and much less breathability.
What size disposable coverall should I order?
At least one size above street sizing. They are worn over workwear, and a tight suit splits at the shoulder or gets cut at the cuffs.
Can disposable coveralls be reused?
Not in a contaminated environment. Reuse carries the contamination back out. Treat them as single-use and budget accordingly.
Do you sell coveralls in bulk?
Yes. Case pricing with volume breaks, sized for shift patterns. Single suits are also available.
