. The criterion of continued protection following cleaning must be validated; generally the fabric is tested by the supplier with regard to a defined and identified risk for a given number of washing and drying cycles (see the standards).

. Solutions to protection needs owing to certain types of risk may partially clash with the functionality requirements of a brand image garment, which are also those of a protective and safety garment.

. For example :

•  Oily stains that are more easily removed from a 100% cotton or cotton/polyester fabric
•  Splashes of acid will have little effect on a 100% polyester fabric (other than discolouration)
•  Fire-proofing treatments will only remain permanent on washing in the case of specific adapted and guaranteed treatments applied to 100% cotton or mainly cotton (at least 65%) fabrics