ISO 13994:2005 describes a laboratory test method that enables determination of the resistance of materials used in protective clothing to visible penetration under the conditions of continuous liquid contact and pressure, for example, clothing that is exposed to repeated splashes of liquid spray under pressure. Protective clothing "pass/fail" determinations are based on visual detection of liquid penetration.

This test method is normally used to evaluate the barrier effectiveness against liquids of materials used for protective clothing and specimens from finished items of protective clothing.

ISO 13994:2005 addresses only the performance of materials or certain material constructions (e.g. seams) used in protective clothing. It does not address the design, overall construction and components, or interfaces of garments or other factors which may affect the overall protection offered by the protective clothing.