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Industrial workwear goes through far harsher laundry conditions than everyday clothing. That’s why ISO 15797 testing—and especially the shrinkage allowance—plays a crucial role in determining whether a garment can maintain its size, shape, and protective performance after repeated industrial washing.
In this quick guide, we break down what shrinkage allowance really means and why it matters for professional PPE buyers.
ISO 15797 is the international test method used to evaluate industrial washing and drying performance. It simulates commercial laundry processes involving:
High washing temperatures
Mechanical agitation
Chemical detergents
Tunnel finishing or tumble drying
This standard ensures that FR, anti-static, and arc-rated garments can withstand real industrial conditions without losing function.
Shrinkage allowance refers to the acceptable size change of a garment after industrial washing according to ISO 15797.
Typical acceptable limits:
Length shrinkage: 3–5%
Width shrinkage: 3–5%
A garment that exceeds these limits may become too tight, distorted, uncomfortable, or non-compliant with safety standards.
Shrinkage allowance is essential for:
Maintaining correct fit (critical for FR & arc-rated PPE performance)
Preserving seam integrity
Ensuring garments don’t become restrictive or unsafe
Workwear that shrinks excessively can compromise safety:
FR garments: A tight fit increases heat exposure during an arc flash.
Anti-static garments: Distorted structure may affect conductivity performance.
Arc flash PPE: Incorrect fit may reduce protective air gaps.
Proper shrinkage control ensures the garment performs as originally certified.
At DOMEX SAFETY, all FR, IFR, anti-static, and arc-rated garments undergo ISO 15797 durability testing to confirm:
Controlled shrinkage within required limits
Reliable long-term fit
Maintained protection after repeated industrial washes
This guarantees that every piece of PPE performs throughout its lifespan—not just on day one.
Shrinkage allowance may seem like a small detail, but it directly affects comfort, fit, and safety. Understanding ISO 15797 helps buyers choose workwear that holds up under the toughest industrial conditions.
