Several of the NFPA standards in existence today require a Whole Garment Liquid Penetration Test, commonly known as the Shower Test. Every garment bearing a 3rd party certification mark must be tested in the exact manner as specified by the appropriate standard, without exception. In order to clarify any misunderstandings on what is required by NFPA 1971, Standard on Protective Ensemble for Structural Firefighting, 2000 Edition, we reprint the pertinent section for your reference.

Section 6-48.8.3. The Coat collar shall be placed in the up position on the mannequin with the collar closures system fastened in the closed position. The head of the mannequin shall be sealed off with a plastic bag. The plastic bag shall extend downward over the collar a distance of not grater than 25 mm (1”) and shall be taped down using duct tape or similar waterproof tape. The tape shall not extend downward more than 75 mm (3”) from the top of the collar. The bottom edge of the tape and the plastic bag shall not come closer than 25 mm (1”) of the collar seam where a collar seam is present. Where present, the collar neck seam shall not be covered.

6-48.8.4. The test shall be conducted with the mannequin’s hands removed. The Coat sleeve hem shall be taped smoothly to a can or an object of similar cylindrical, rigid shape of the same nominal diameter as the sleeve opening. The can or cylindrical object shall be fitted over the wristlet and under the Coat Outer Shell sleeve hem. The tape shall be duct tape or similar waterproof tape.

6-48.8.5. The Coat shall be tested in conjunction with the protective Trousers specified by the manufacturers, even where the Trousers are not being specifically evaluated by this test.

Some manufacturers would have you believe that their garments are tested differently for certification purposes: can’t happen - NFPA is very specific on what is required in order to label a garment. Let the buyer beware of misleading marketing ploys: it is quite easy to come up with a test to prove whatever it is that you wish to prove, and the bottom line is all clothing must be tested exactly as mandated by the Standard.