An EN 17353 product can pass every laboratory test and still be held back at market surveillance because the marking or user information is incomplete. The standard sets specific rules for pictograms, wash-count marking, device labels and mandatory sentences in the instructions. They are quick to get right and expensive to fix after printing.
This checklist covers the marking and information requirements of EN 17353:2020+A1:2025, together with the general EN ISO 13688 rules that apply to garments.
Marking requirements at a glance
| Item | Garments | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| General marking rules | EN ISO 13688 | EN 17353 list below |
| Manufacturer name and address | Yes, via EN ISO 13688 | Yes |
| Standard number and year | Yes, via EN ISO 13688 | Yes |
| Type of equipment | Shown by pictogram and documentation | Yes |
| Daylight or dark pictogram | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum cleaning cycles, if claimed | Near the pictogram | Near the pictogram |
1. Choose the right pictogram
Every EN 17353 product carries a pictogram that tells the user when it works. There are three variants:
- Daylight for Type A equipment.
- Dark conditions for Type B1, B2 and B3 equipment.
- Daylight and dark conditions for Type AB2 and AB3 equipment.
The pictogram must match the type that was actually tested. A common mistake is to print the combined day-and-night symbol on a Type B3 garment because the fabric happens to be brightly coloured. Unless the fluorescent fabric was assessed as part of a Type AB product, the garment is Type B3 and must carry the dark-conditions pictogram.
2. Device labels
Devices such as hanging reflectors, armbands, slap wraps and clip-on bands have their own short list. Each device is marked with:
- the manufacturer’s name and address;
- the number and year of the standard;
- the type of equipment.
The marking goes on the product itself. If the device is too small or the surface does not allow it, the marking may go on a label attached to the product or on the smallest packaging unit. For multi-packs, think about what the user keeps after opening the pack: a label on the outer box is easily thrown away.
3. Wash-count marking
If the instructions claim a maximum number of cleaning cycles, that number must:
- relate to the visibility component with the lowest number of washes, whether that is the fluorescent fabric or the reflective tape;
- be marked on the label close to the pictogram, where applicable;
- match the number of cycles used for the ageing tests.
If no number is claimed, the laboratory tests after five cleaning cycles. If the product is single-use, say so clearly, and testing is done on new material only.
4. Mandatory sentences in the user information
Beyond the general EN ISO 13688 information, EN 17353 asks for several specific statements where they apply. In practice the user information should cover:
- Lifetime. A statement that the stated cleaning cycles are not the only factor in the product’s lifetime, which also depends on use, care and storage.
- Pairs for Type B1. At least two free-hanging devices must be used, one on the left and one on the right side of the torso, for visibility from all sides.
- Pairs for Type B2. At least two devices must be used for visibility from all sides.
- Alterations. A warning that changes such as printing logos may reduce the minimum areas and the product’s performance.
- Colour change. If the fluorescent colour moves to another colour box after Xenon exposure, this must be mentioned.
A note on Type B2 wording. The published sentence for Type B2 devices refers to wearing them on the left and right side of the torso, mirroring the Type B1 sentence. Type B2 devices are defined as limb equipment, worn on the arms or legs. Many manufacturers therefore explain in the instructions how the pair should be worn on the limbs. Agree the exact wording with your notified body before printing.
5. Translations and the EU market
EN 17353 is used under the EU PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425. Instructions must be provided in a language easily understood by users in the member state where the product is sold. For the Nordic markets, where reflective hangers are particularly common, plan Finnish and Swedish versions from the start.
The user information should also identify the product type and class, describe the intended use and its limits, and explain care, storage and when to replace the product.
6. Common marking mistakes
- Printing the old reference EN 17353:2020 after the product has been assessed to EN 17353:2020+A1:2025, or the reverse.
- Using the day-and-night pictogram on a product tested only as Type B.
- Claiming a wash count higher than the weakest component was tested for.
- Placing the device marking only on disposable outer packaging.
- Omitting the pair-wearing instruction for Type B1 or Type B2 devices.
- Adding a buyer’s logo after testing without checking that minimum areas are still met.
Pre-print checklist
- Type confirmed against the test report.
- Correct pictogram selected.
- Standard reference and edition correct.
- Manufacturer name and address present.
- Wash count equals the weakest component’s tested cycles, placed near the pictogram.
- Mandatory sentences included where applicable.
- Colour-change statement added if Xenon results require it.
- Language versions prepared for each target market.
- Labels and instructions reviewed with the notified body.
FAQ
Is the CE marking part of EN 17353?
No. CE marking comes from the PPE Regulation and the conformity assessment procedure. EN 17353 sets product-specific marking that sits alongside it.
Can the pictogram be printed in colour?
The standard defines the symbol, not its colour. Keep it clear and legible for the life of the product, and check with your notified body if you plan a custom style.
Do I need new labels after the A1:2025 amendment?
If the product is reassessed to the amended edition, the marking and documentation should reflect it. Type AB products in particular now show AB2 or AB3.
Conclusion
EN 17353 marking is short but precise: the right pictogram, an honest wash count, a durable device label and a handful of mandatory sentences. Treat the label and instructions as part of the tested product, and review them with the same care as the laboratory report.
This article provides general technical information, not a product-specific conformity assessment or legal opinion. Consult the current standard and the responsible laboratory or conformity-assessment body for the actual product and intended use.