UV Standard 801

The testing process determines the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), which specifies the UV protection factor of textiles.
Foundation: 1998
Sector: Textile

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Objective

The UV STANDARD 801 is one of the most rigorous testing and certification systems for shading apparel and textiles in the world.

The testing process determines the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), which specifies the UV protection factor of textiles.

In contrast to other UV standards that only test textiles in a new and dry state, the UV STANDARD 801 also tests sun-protective textiles under realistic usage conditions. This is because, with daily use, UV protection is often drastically reduced through moisture, stretching, abrasion, and washing.

Description
Apparel textiles marked with the UV STANDARD 801 label include, for example, swimwear and beachwear, sports and outdoor clothing, leisure and hiking apparel, as well as headgear for children and adults.

Additionally, shading textiles such as umbrellas, blinds, beach shelters, bicycle trailer window films, and stroller canopies are also tested and labeled.

Certification is possible according to UPF levels 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 60, or 80, with the value achieved in testing rounded down to the next lowest level.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) and Skin Types
Not all skin types react the same way to sun exposure! Personal skin protection time (the period of direct sun exposure without suffering skin damage) depends on the skin type. Therefore, it is very important to know your skin type.

Dermatologists consider a classification of six skin phototypes, each with distinct self-protection times. Skin types 5 and 6 are not mentioned because they do not present a high risk of damage.

The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) defines the factor by which personal protection time can be extended using textiles. For example, an individual with skin type 1, using a textile with UPF 20, can increase direct sun exposure time from 5–10 minutes to 100–200 minutes without suffering skin damage.