A chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protective jacket

Abstract

A CBRN-protective jacket (100) comprising: at least one chest section (110); at least one back section (120) opposite to the chest section (110); a headgear (130) connected to the chest section (110), wherein the headgear (130) comprises an opening (140) for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening (140); wherein the opening (140) has an uninterrupted circumference; and a zipper (150) comprising a start end (151) and a finishing end (152), wherein the finishing end (152) is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100), and wherein the zipper (150) connects the headgear (130) to the back section (120), thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

Description

[0001] A CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR PROTECTIVE JACKET

[0002] Technical Field

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates, amongst others, to a chemical-, biological-, radiological- and nuclear-protective jacket, CBRN-protective jacket, to a method for donning the CBRN-protective jacket, to a method for doffing the CBRN-protective jacket and to a CBRN-protective suit comprising the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0004] Background

[0005]

[0002] A CBRN-protective jacket is a type of personal protective equipment, PPE, which refers to a type of equipment worn by an individual to minimize exposure to hazards that could lead to serious injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from exposure to for example chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear hazards, or hazards of any other nature. There are many scenarios where an individual needs to be protected against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear, CBRN threats, such as for example during humanitarian, policing, or military missions.

[0006]

[0003] The CBRN-protective jacket generally comprises a hood to encapsulate a wearer’s head while the CBRN-protective jacket is being worn. The hood may comprise an opening to allow a face mask to extend through the opening. The face mask can be a full-face mask designed to filter out the possible CBRN hazards for the individual while being equipped with a transparent window for a clear field of vision of the individual. Therefore, a reliable sealing must be provided between the face mask and the opening. In addition, the hood may be designed as a separate piece, independent from the CBRN-protective jacket and which can be at least partially coupled to or connected to the CBRN-protective jacket, or as a piece permanently attached to the CBRN-protective jacket. In either case, the hood must be secured to the CBRN-protective jacket via a sealing fastener, e.g. a zipper and / or Velcro. Among the alternative methods, the use of a zipper is prevalent in sealing the CBRN-protectivejacket, because a zipper sealing allows for quick and easy opening or closing, even in situations where the wearer of the CBRN-protective jacket has limited dexterity. Moreover, a zipper can be opened and closed quickly and smoothly, which is particularly useful in busy or dynamic or challenging or dangerous environments. A zipper can also create a tight, reliable seal to prevent exposure to CBRN threats even during movement. Furthermore, a zipper can be designed to be functional, such as being waterproof, water-resistant or even gas-tight, making them ideal for use in everchanging environments, e.g. on battlefields.

[0007]

[0004] In practical applications, the CBRN-protective jacket can be designed to be larger than the wearer’s skin-tight size to facilitate donning and doffing, as time is of the essence when facing the CBRN threats. It also makes the CBRN-protective jacket compatible with different statures. Moreover, the wearer can use other equipment under the CBRN-protective jacket, such as for example telecommunication equipment.

[0008]

[0005] The CBRN-protective jacket is also designed to provide protection against contamination. The CBRN-protective jacket must be quick to don to minimize possible exposure to the CBRN threats. Doffing of the CBRN-jacket should allow for efficient decontamination and removal without risk of contaminating the wearer.

[0009] Summary

[0010]

[0006] There is a need to develop a chemical-, biological-, radiological- and nuclear-, CBRN-protective jacket to provide reliable sealing against CBRN threats while prioritizing soldier comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of scenarios, comprising intensive movements during military missions. Preferably, the CBRN-jacket enhances comfort for extended wear, while maintaining consistent, reliable protection against the CBRN threats.

[0011]

[0007] However, it remains challenging to strike a balance between compactness and safety regarding the design of the CBRN-protective jacket. The CBRN-protective jacket may comprise a hood and a gasmask extending through an opening in the hood. To facilitate the wearing of the CBRN-protective jacket in certain situations, the hood maybe designed as a separate piece, being selectively sealable and the hood can be stored over or behind a wearer’s head. After being contaminated, the hood and the gasmask may be disposed. However, this configuration features a loose hood, which increases the danger of the wearers not having the hood readily available in critical moments, potentially leaving them exposed to harmful contaminants.

[0012]

[0008] It further remains challenging to design the closure path of a zipper providing reliable sealing against the CBRN threats while prioritizing the wearer’s comfort, especially for extended wear. The design of the sealing of the CBRN-protective jacket can pose extra risks to the wearers, especially for soldiers in military missions. Most of the CBRN-protective jackets are designed to be sealed with a zipper sealing. The hood, either being a separate piece or being a piece attached or coupled to the CBRN-jacket, is secured to the CBRN-jacket via the zipper sealing. The zipper sealing of the hood may have a closure path that begins at the chest portion, around a neck, and then ends on the other side of the chest. The closure path may include two sections of a double-ended zipper, starting from the center of a back of the neck. This area is difficult to see or feel, especially when wearing heavy, bulky military gear and gloves. Improper sealing or accidental opening of the zipper in the center of the back of the neck could lead to dangerous situations, endangering the soldier’s safety.

[0013]

[0009] To mitigate the above problem, the zipper’s closure path can also be designed to be continuous, running along the edge of the hood and over the wearer’s head. However, in real-world scenarios, the soldiers can be required to wear helmets over the CBRN-protective jacket for protection against for example ballistic, blast and blunt force threats. However, the section of the zipper positioned at least partially beneath the helmet or at least partially along the helmet’s edge exerts additional pressure on the soldier’s head. Over time, this pressure can cause discomfort, headaches, dizziness, thereby negatively impacting the soldier’s performance.

[0014]

[0010] Additionally, it remains challenging to ensure safety and comfort in the everchanging environment, especially in the battlefields. During intense movement in military missions, heat and pressure can build up inside the CBRN-protective jacket, particularly in hot or humid climates. To allow for rapid donning and doffing over battle gear, CBRN-protective jackets are typically designed to be loose-fitting, possiblyleading to air pockets when the wearer sweats or feels overheated. The loose-fitting hood traps excess air between a head and the hood when worn under a helmet. As the soldier moves, this trapped air can generate pressure pulses, potentially causing leaks between the gas mask and the hood’s rim, allowing contaminated air to infiltrate once the pulse dissipates. Similarly, movement-induced under-pressure in the hood can also result in leaks, compromising the soldier’s protection. Additionally, the oversized fit beneath or under the helmet can cause the fabric to fold, potentially creating pressure points and leading to discomfort.

[0015]

[0011] It is thus an object of embodiments of the present disclosure to propose a CBRN-protective jacket, a method for donning the CBRN-protective jacket, a method for doffing the CBRN-protective jacket and a CBRN-protective suit comprising the CBRN-protective jacket which do not show the inherent shortcomings of the prior art.

[0016]

[0012] The scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the disclosure is set out by the independent claims.

[0017]

[0013] The embodiments and features described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims, if any, are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0018]

[0014] Amongst others, it is an object of embodiments of the disclosure to enable the CBRN-protective jacket to improve the comfort of the wearers, especially soldiers, when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, while maintaining its effectiveness against the CBRN threats. Amongst others, it is an object of embodiments of the disclosure to provide a method to don the CBRN-protective jacket and a method to doff the CBRN-protective jacket. A CBRN-protective suit comprising the CBRN-protective jacket is proposed to expand the application of the disclosure to more scenarios.

[0019]

[0015] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a CBRN-protective jacket is provided. The CBRN-protective jacket comprising:

[0020] - at least one chest section;

[0021] - at least one back section opposite to the chest section;- a headgear connected to the chest section, wherein the headgear comprises an opening for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening; wherein the opening has an uninterrupted circumference; and

[0022] - a zipper comprising a start end and a finishing end, wherein the finishing end is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, and wherein the zipper connects the headgear to the back section, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0023]

[0016] It is advantageous to position the finishing end of the zipper between the ear and the respective shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, because this is a location readily accessible to the wearer and placing the finishing end of the zipper in this location may not create additional pressure points for the wearer. In real-world scenarios, the wearers, such as for example the soldiers, can be required to wear helmets over the CBRN-protective jacket for protection against ballistic, blast and blunt force threats. The finishing end of the zipper positioned beneath or along the helmet’s edge exerts additional pressure on the wearer’s, such as for example the soldier’s head. Moreover, the wearers, such as for example the soldiers, can be required to wear other protective gears over the CBRN-protective jacket to protect the thorax or chest, the abdomen of the body, and / or the back of the body, such as for example a bulletproof vest. The finishing end of the zipper positioned beneath or along the edges of other protective gear exerts additional pressure on the wearer’s. Over time, this pressure can cause headache and dizziness when the wearer is wearing a helmet, can cause pain in the body when the wearer wearing other protective gear over the CBRN-protective jacket, or can cause any other possible discomfort for the wearer. This discomfort over time may negatively impact the wearer’s performance.

[0024]

[0017] It is advantageous to form a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket by closing the zipper. In busy and dynamic environments, such as for example in battlefields, the zipper can quickly and reliably seal the headgear to the back section within seconds, thereby rapidly forming a CBRN-protective jacket that can isolate the CBRN hazards outside the CBRN-protective jacket and reduce the wearer’s contact time with the CBRN hazards to a minimum, thereby exerting effective protection and reducing possiblecontamination. Moreover, the zipper can be functionalized to be water-repellent, watertight and / or even gas-tight. Preferably, the zipper is functionalized to be water-repellent, water-tight, and gas-tight.

[0025]

[0018] In the context of the present disclosure, a CBRN-protective jacket refers to a personal protective equipment in the form of a jacket that can protect the wearer against direct contact with and contamination by chemical-, biological-, radiological-and nuclear-, CBRN substances. The term “CBRN” in reference to a piece of garment is well known in the art and is understood as providing the wearer of the garment protection to chemical-, biological-, radiological-, and / or nuclear- warfare agents, in solid, in liquid, in gaseous, and / or in aerosol state / states by providing appropriate properties known in the art to the one or more fabrics used to provide the CBRN garment. The CBRN-protective jackets are often fully encapsulating and made from multi-layered, impermeable fabrics that act as a barrier against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) hazards and / or dangerous agents used as weapons or encountered during humanitarian, policing, military missions, terrorist or hazardous material incidents. Some designs incorporate breathable features, such as charcoal-impregnated liners, for better comfort, while others prioritize impermeability for maximum protection. A jacket refers to a sleeved apparel or a sleeved garment adapted to cover at least the upper side of the wearer, i.e. the head, the arms, the thorax or chest, an abdomen of a body, and / or a back of the body and is free of legs. A jacket typically fastens in the front or slightly on the side. A CBRN-protective jacket may have one or more pockets. Alternatively, a CBRN-protective jacket may be free of pockets. In this disclosure, the CBRN-protective jacket comprises at least one chest section, at least one back section opposite to the chest section, a headgear connected to or coupled to the chest section and a zipper.

[0026]

[0019] The chest section of the CBRN-protective jacket refers to the section of the CBRN-protective jacket which covers a chest or a thorax of the wearer. The CBRN-protective jacket may comprise one chest section. Alternatively, the CBRN-protective jacket may comprise more than one chest section, such as for example two, three or four chest sections. Each of the chest sections can be permanently connected or coupled, such as for example be sewn or be welded on to other adjacent chest sections. Alternatively, each of the chest sections can be connected to the adjacentchest section via a fastening means, preferably via a zipper. Alternatively, some of the chest sections are permanently connected to the adjacent chest sections while the rest of the chest sections are connected to the corresponding adjacent chest sections via a corresponding fastening means, preferably via a zipper. Preferably, the CBRN-protective jacket comprises two chest sections, wherein the two chest sections are bound together via a zipper.

[0027]

[0020] The back section of the CBRN-protective jacket refers to the section of the CBRN-protective jacket which covers a back of the wearer, which is opposite to the chest section. The CBRN-protective jacket may comprise one back section. Alternatively, the CBRN-protective jacket may comprise more than one back section, such as for example two, three or four back sections. Preferably, each of the back sections can be permanently connected, such as for example be sewn or be welded on to the other adjacent back sections. Preferably, the CBRN-protective jacket comprises only one back section. More preferably, the CBRN-protective jacket comprises only one back section opposite the two chest sections. The chest sections may be permanently connected to the back section, such as for example be sewn or be welded on to the back section. Alternatively, the two chest sections and the back section may be formed or be made from one piece of cloth. Alternatively, the two chest sections and the back section may be formed or be made from one piece of cloth, while the two chest sections are bound together via a zipper.

[0028]

[0021] The CBRN-protective jacket comprises a headgear connected to the chest section. The headgear refers to any element of clothing which is worn on the wearer’s head, comprising hats, helmets, turbans, hoods and many other types. In this disclosure, the headgear may cover most of the head, the neck, and the face of its wearer. More specifically, the headgear may cover a backside of the neck, a backside of the head, a crown of the head, one or both sides of the head, the head of the wearer at least up to a forehead and a part of the face. The headgear may leave a most part of the face uncovered. The headgear is adapted to be removed by moving the headgear back from the head away from the neck. In the context of this disclosure, preferably, the headgear and the at least one chest section are formed or made from one piece of cloth. In other words, the headgear can be an integral part of the CBRN-protective jacket, being seamlessly connected to the at least one chest section.Preferably, the headgear can be seamlessly connected to either of the two chest sections.

[0029]

[0022] It is advantageous to have the headgear as an integral part of the CBRN-protective jacket, because this configuration ensures that the headgear is always connected to the CBRN-protective jacket. This can prevent to some extent possible accidents due to negligence, such as forgetting to pack the headgear, or losing the headgear, or any other similar situation. Preferably, the headgear being seamlessly connected to the chest section will effectively reduce the number of seams existing in the CBRN-protective jacket, which can be weak points leading to possible leakage.

[0030]

[0023] The headgear comprises an opening for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening. An opening refers to an aperture or a hole, which makes the headgear open. The opening is adapted to accommodate a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening, which means that the opening is adapted to make room for the gasmask to extend at least partially through the opening while providing with a suited fitting between the opening and the gasmask. As a result, preferably, there is not any leakage of external CBRN hazards into the CBRN-protective jacket even under intense movement. The gasmask can extend partially through the opening or fully through the opening. The gasmask is a piece of personal protective equipment being adapted to protect the wearer from inhaling airborne pollutants, toxic gases or any other possible hazards. The gasmask may form a sealed cover over a nose and a mouth of the wearer, and may also cover eyes and other vulnerable soft tissues of the wearer’s face. Preferably, the gasmask also covers at least a part of a front side of the neck, like the throat. Preferably, the gasmask also covers a part of the forehead and / or most part of the face.

[0031]

[0024] The opening has an uninterrupted circumference. In other words, the external boundary or the periphery of the opening may not be interrupted, stopped, or blocked. It is advantageous to have the uninterrupted circumference, because the uninterrupted circumference avoids to some extent one or more weak points for leakage between the opening and the gasmask being accommodated in the opening while the CBRN-protective jacket is being worn. This configuration is advantageous when the wearer, such as for example a soldier, has intensive movements over an extended period oftime. Movements of the wearer, especially the intensive movements of the wearer, can lead to relative movements of the gasmask and the opening, which may weaken the sealing between the gasmask and the opening. The weakening in sealing between the gasmask and the opening may become more obvious over an extended period of time. In the case of an opening with an interrupted circumference, which can be such as for example an end of the sealing fastener, e.g. an end of a zipper, the end of the sealing fastener can be one weak point for leakage. More specifically, the end of the sealing fastener and parts of the interrupted circumference of the opening can be the weak points for leakage. The leakage of the CBRN hazards through the weak points can comprise the safety of the wearer, such as for example the soldier, and render the CBRN-protective jacket incapable of functioning properly.

[0032]

[0025] The CBRN-protective jacket comprises a zipper comprising a start end and a finishing end, wherein the finishing end is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Hence, the finishing end of the zipper is positioned at a position laterally adjacent to, and vertically overlapping with, a lower peripheral region of the opening comprised by the headgear. A lower peripheral region of the opening refers to a peripheral region of the opening closest to the chest section of the CBRN-protective jacket. In the context of this disclosure, “vertically” refers to a direction parallel to a central front plane of the CBRN-protective jacket when the CBRN-protective jacket is laid in a natural, upright configuration on a flat surface. A “vertical” line runs from the neck and / or the shoulder region towards the hem of the jacket. In the context of this disclosure, “laterally” refers to a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, parallel to the same flat surface, and extending from the central front plane of the CBRN-protective jacket towards its side seams or its sleeves. “Central front plane of the CBRN-protective jacket” refers to a hypothetical vertical plane that bisects symmetrically into left and right halves when the CBRN-protective jacket is in a fully assembled, unfastened, and laid-flat condition with its front facing upward. This plane is oriented perpendicular to the ground and passes through central reference points such as the center of the opening and the center of the bottom hem. “Vertically overlapping with” means that a vertical line, as defined above, passing through the finishing end of the zipper would also intersect the lower peripheral region of the headgear’s opening. “Laterally adjacent to” means that the finishing end of the zipper is positioned proximate to the opening in a lateraldirection, offset from the central front plane of the CBRN-protective jacket, and does not interfere with the uninterrupted circumference of the opening itself.

[0033]

[0026] The zipper consists of one or more sliders mounted on two rows of metal or plastic or any other suitable material teeth that are designed to interlock and thereby join the material to which the rows are attached. The start end of the zipper can locate at one of the at least one chest sections or any other possible part of the CBRN-protective jacket. Preferably, the start end of the zipper is located in a position being readily accessible by the wearer, especially in busy or dynamic environments, such as for example in battlefields. Moreover, the start end of the zipper locates in an appropriate location, wherein the wearer does not have difficulty in joining the two rows of teeth of the zipper, especially when with limited dexterity, such as for example when wearing bulky gloves or any other possible situation. The finishing end is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The finishing end may be positioned between a left ear and a left shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the finishing end may be positioned between a right ear and a right shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. A position between the ear and the respective shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket indicates the position on a part of a surface of the CBRN-protective jacket between the horizontal line set by the ear and the horizontal line set by the respective shoulder of the wearer. The finishing end of the zipper can be below the ear and in line with a respective shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the finishing end of the zipper can be below the ear but around the respective shoulder line of the wearer, such as for example locating closer to a nape of the wearer or locating closer to the face of the wearer or in any other suitable location.

[0034]

[0027] In the context of this disclosure, when reference is made to “left” or “right”, and unless otherwise explained, left and right is to be understood as seen from the perspective of the wearer of the CBRN-protective jacket or a CBRN-protective suit.

[0035]

[0028] The zipper connects the headgear to the back section, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. In other words, by closing the zipper, the headgear can be connectedto the back section. As the headgear is connected to the chest section, by closing the zipper, the headgear can be connected to both the back section and the chest section of the CBRN-protective jacket, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The headgear comprises a crown portion, a rear portion extending downwards from the crown portion to cover at least the nape of a neck of a person wearing said CBRN-protective jacket comprising said headgear and adapted to be connected to back section / back sections of the CBRN-protective jacket in a releasable way, and two side portions each extending downwards from the crown portion at the left respectively right side of the rear portion, the side portions hence are adapted to cover the ears, cheeks, and / or parts of the neck of the wearer wearing said headgear, wherein the headgear is dimensioned and configured to define a fully enclosed head cavity that is preferably continuous with a neck opening of the CBRN-protective jacket, and further define an opening for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening. Hence, the zipper, when fastened, structurally connects a rear portion of the headgear to the back section / back sections of the CBRN-protective jacket, a rear portion of the headgear extending downwards to cover the nape of the neck of a person wearing said CBRN-protective jacket comprising said headgear, thereby completing the perimeter of the headgear. In the context of this disclosure, “downwards” refers to an indicating direction along the longitudinal direction of the CBRN-protective jacket pointing from the chest section towards the bottom hem of the CBRN-protective jacket and / or pointing from the headgear towards the chest section when the CBRN-protective jacket is in a fully assembled, unfastened, and laid-flat condition with its front facing upward and / or is laid in a natural, upright configuration on a flat surface. It is understandable that the crown portion, the rear portion and the side portions refer to regions of the headgear, and the boundaries between any two of these portions may be either physically distinct, such as through a clear material or structural interface, e.g. a seam, a glue line, and so on, or they may be virtual or abstract, meaning any two of these portions or all these portions form a seamless integral monolithic part of the headgear. In the latter case, the boundary may not correspond to a visible or physical separation, but may be defined functionally, logically, or spatially, such as for example, a region defined by where a certain function is performed, e.g. covering a crown of the wearer when wearing the headgear, even if the material component is continuous.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the headgear may comprise at least one volume-reducing element for fitting the hood to the wearer’s head when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0036]

[0030] It is advantageous that the headgear comprises at least one volume-reducing for fitting the hood to the wearer’s head when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. In practical applications, the CBRN-protective jacket can be designed to be larger than a wearer’s skin-tight size to facilitate rapid donning and doffing. Moreover, the wearer may wear other equipment under the CBRN-protective jacket, such as for example telecommunication equipment. However, a loose-fitting CBRN-protective jacket, especially a loose-fitting hood, can pose certain problems to the wearer. Firstly, the loose-fitting hood may create air pockets when the wearer sweats or feels overheated. As the wearer moves, the air pockets can generate pressure pulses, potentially causing leaks between the gas mask and the hood’s rim. In addition, movement-induced under-pressure in the hood can also result in leakage, compromising protection over the wearer. Moreover, the loose-fitting hood beneath the helmet can cause the fabric to fold, potentially creating pressure points on the wearer’s head and leading to discomfort. The at least one volume-reducing element can ameliorate a fitting of the hood to the wearer’s head when the wearer is wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, avoiding the possible air pockets, an over-pressure condition, an under-pressure condition, additional pressure on the wearer’s head, or any other possible adverse effects.

[0037]

[0031] The at least one volume-reducing element is adapted to reduce the volume of the possible loose-fitting hood to promote the fitting of the hood to the wearer’s head when the wearer is wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The headgear may comprise one volume-reducing element. Preferably, the one volume-reducing element is located in the middle of a left side and a right side of the back of the head. Alternatively, the headgear may comprise more than one volume-reducing elements, such as for example two, three, four volume-reducing elements. In the case of even number of volume-reducing elements, preferably, the volume-reducing elements are symmetrically distributed over the headgear. In the case of uneven number of volumereducing elements, preferably, the volume-reducing elements are distributed over theheadgear in a way that balanced volume-reducing effects are exerted on the left side and on the right side of the headgear.

[0038]

[0032] The at least one volume-reducing element may comprise one or more of the following: a soft material; a rigid material; an elastic material; a nonelastic material. The volume-reducing element can be one or more of the following:

[0039] - an elastic band;

[0040] - a snap button;

[0041] - a buckle and a clip;

[0042] - a drawstring and a cord lock;

[0043] - a hook-and-loop fastener;

[0044] - and alike.

[0045]

[0033] Preferably, the at least one volume-reducing element can be provided on the back of the headgear and / or at sides of the headgear. The at least one volumereducing element may be provided on the headgear above or covering an occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the at least one volume-reducing element may be provided on the headgear at a nape of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The occipital bone is a trapezoidalshaped bone forming the base of the skull, which locates at the lower and back part of the cranium. The nape is the back of the neck. It is advantageous to provide the at least one volume-reducing element on the back of the headgear. Firstly, the back of the headgear may have more space to provide the at least one volume-reducing element compared to a front side of the headgear, which comprises the opening for receiving the gasmask. Secondly, by providing the at least one volume-reducing element on the back of the headgear, fabric of the hood may be mostly folded on the back of the headgear, while the fabric of the hood at the front side of the headgear is more straightened due to tension(s) applied by the at least one volume-reducing element located on the back of the headgear. This improvement can reduce the forming of the air pockets around the circumference of the opening, thereby reducing the possible leakage along the circumference of the opening.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the finishing end of the zipper may be provided below the ear and in line with a shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0046]

[0035] The shoulder line of the wearer is the line which traces along the shoulder up to the shoulder point. It is advantageous to provide the finishing end of the zipper below the ear and in line with the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. As a result, a proper sealing of the CBRN-protective jacket, i.e. a proper closure of the zipper, can be visually inspected by the wearer with a reflective surface, such as for example a mirror. Alternatively, the proper sealing of the CBRN-protective jacket could be checked by a buddy soldier, which can be burdensome and time-consuming in a busy and dynamic environment, such as for example in battlefields. In addition, the finishing end of the zipper can be relatively easier to reach by both hands of the wearer, without requiring great flexibility of the wearer’s arms. Moreover, it is advantageous to avoid one or more meetings of the finishing end of the zipper, the circumference of the opening, and / or the zipper’s closure path, because this avoids one or more possible critical points of the CBRN-protective jacket for showing leakages.

[0047]

[0036] According to some embodiments, the start end may be positioned at one of a left- and righthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket and the finishing end of the zipper may be positioned at the other of the left- and righthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket than the start end. The zipper may follow a closing path which extends continuously from the start end towards a rim of the headgear, along the rim of the headgear covering the nape of the wearer, and towards the finishing end.

[0048]

[0037] It is advantageous to position the start end and the finishing end of the zipper at different sides of the CBRN-protective jacket, because this improvement increases the overall sturdiness and durability of the CBRN-protective jacket. The headgear is connected to the chest section and a connection part between the headgear and the chest section can be a weak part of the CBRN-protective jacket, as the connection part may have a narrower width compared to a longer length. Upon on dragging, which can transform into shearing force to the connection part, tearing can happen at the connection part. When placing the start end and the finishing end of the zipper atdifferent sides of the CBRN-protective jacket, the width of the connection part can be enlarged to some extend, thereby providing more sturdiness and durability upon accidental tearing.

[0049]

[0038] Preferably, the start end is positioned at the lefthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket while the finishing end of the zipper is positioned at the righthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the start end is positioned at the righthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket while the finishing end of the zipper is positioned at the lefthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0050]

[0039] The zipper follows a closing path which extends continuously from the start end towards the finishing end. A continuous closing path of the zipper refers to that components of the zipper are free of interruption, wherein the components of the zipper may comprise one or more tapes, one or more chains, one or more stringers, one or more beads, one or more cords, and / or any other possible component. In addition, one or more bottom stops, one or more boxes, one or more pins and / or any other possible component to start or end the zipper may only be positioned at the start end and / or the finishing end of the zipper.

[0051]

[0040] The rim of the headgear refers to an outer border or edge of the headgear. It is advantageous to have the closing path of the zipper cover the nape of the wearer, because the closing path of the zipper is located on the exterior of the helmet that may be worn. The closing path of the zipper under the helmet can create additional pressure points for the wearer and result in headache and / or dizziness, especially for extended wear. This improvement can mitigate this problem and improve the comfort of the wearer, especially for extended wear. Moreover, the continuous closing path of the zipper over the nape of the wearer prevents the start end and / or finishing end of the zipper from appearing over the nape of the wearer, which can be very difficult to be inspected by the wearer, thereby effectively decreasing the safety risk of the wearer.

[0052]

[0041] According to some embodiments, the zipper may extend in the headgear covering the nape of the wearer below the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0042] It is advantageous to position the zipper covering the nape of the wearer below the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. In real life, the wearer can be required to wear the helmet for further protection to the cranium, the face, an occipital region, an upper portion of the cervical spine, a parietal region, and / or any other possible region. With a proper sizing, the occipital region is in close contact with the helmet to ensure fit and stability. By positioning the zipper below the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, the zipper is located preferably on the exterior of the helmet, thereby avoiding creating additional pressure points on the wearer’s head and impairing the wearer’s performance, especially for extended wear.

[0053]

[0043] According to some embodiments, the zipper may be a two-way zipper.

[0054]

[0044] It is advantageous to use a two-way zipper in the CBRN-protective jacket. The two-way zipper is one that can be closed or opened by the wearer from two opposite ends at the same time. In general, the two-way zipper allows easy access to one or more pockets or any other possible area inside the CBRN-protective jacket by only opening a part of the two-way zipper. This improvement allows the headgear to remain well sealed while still allowing access to the interior of the CBRN-protective jacket to access to gears inside the CBRN-protective jacket. Moreover, the two-way zipper allows the headgear to remain unzipped and partially connected to the CBRN-protective jacket, while the at least one chest section remains well zipped and sealed. This configuration can be useful in certain situations, where the gasmask is not required, but the CBRN-protective jacket must be worn.

[0055]

[0045] Preferably, the two-way zipper can be a two-way separating zipper, wherein the two-way zipper can be opened from a top or a bottom and the two-way zipper comes completely apart, like a jacket front. Thus, the two-way zipper is a separating zipper. Alternatively, the two-way zipper can be a two-way, closed, head-to-head zipper, wherein sliders of the two-way zipper meet together to close the zipper. Thus, the two-way zipper does not separate. Alternatively, the two-way zipper can be a two-way, closed, bottom -to-bottom zipper, wherein the sliders of the two-way zipper meet away from each other to close the zipper. Thus, the two-way zipper does not separate.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the CBRN-protective jacket may further comprise at least one belly section. The start end can be positioned in the belly section or in the chest section.

[0056]

[0047] The at least one belly section covers the abdomen of the body. The CBRN-protective jacket may comprise one belly section, so that the CBRN-protective jacket may be close to an anorak. Alternatively, the CBRN-protective jacket may comprise more than one belly sections, such as for example two, three, four belly sections. Preferably, the at least one belly section is permanently connected to the at least one chest section though sewing, welding, being formed / made from one-piece cloth, and / or any other suitable solution. Preferably, the CBRN-protective jacket comprises two chest sections and two belly sections, which are formed or made out of the one-piece cloth. The chest sections and the belly sections on the lefthand side can be sealed to the righthand side of the CBRN-protective jacket via a zipper. Preferably, the start end of the zipper is positioned in the belly section, so that the closure path of the zipper covers the belly section, the chest section and the nape of the wearer and stops between the ear and the respective shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the start end is positioned in the chest section, so that the closure path of the zipper covers the chest section and the nape of the wearer and stops between the ear and the respective shoulder of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0057]

[0048] According to some embodiments, the volume-reducing element can be provided:

[0058] - on the headgear above or covering the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket when the volume-reducing element comprises a soft material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material; or

[0059] - on the headgear at the nape of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket when the volume-reducing element comprises a soft material or a rigid material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material.

[0060]

[0049] It is advantageous to adapt a material of the volume-reducing element to a respective location in which the volume-reducing element is located. When the volumereducing element being positioned under the helmet, preferably the volume-reducingelement comprises one or more of the following: the soft material; the elastic material; the nonelastic material. When the volume-reducing element being positioned on the exterior of the helmet, preferably the volume-reducing element comprises one or more of the following: the soft material; the rigid material; the elastic material; the nonelastic material. This improvement help reduce the possible negative influence from the volume-reducing element in creating pressure points on the wearer’s head, especially for extended wear. As a result, the fitting between the hood and the wearer’s head can be improved and the comfort of the wearer is not compromised.

[0061]

[0050] The volume-reducing element can be provided on the headgear above or covering the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, wherein the volume-reducing element is positioned in a region that is generally covered by the helmet. As a result, the volume-reducing element comprises a soft material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material. The volume-reducing element can be one or more of the following:

[0062] - an elastic band;

[0063] - a hook-and-loop fastener;

[0064] - and alike.

[0065]

[0051] Alternatively, the volume-reducing element can be provided on the headgear at the nape of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, wherein the volumereducing element is positioned in a region that is generally not covered by the helmet. As a result, the volume-reducing element comprises a soft material or a rigid material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material. The volume-reducing element can be one or more of the following:

[0066] - an elastic band;

[0067] - a snap button;

[0068] - a buckle and a clip;

[0069] - a drawstring and a cord lock;

[0070] - a hook-and-loop fastener;

[0071] - and alike.

[0072]

[0052] According to some embodiments, the uninterrupted circumference of the opening in the headgear can be provided with elastic properties.

[0053] It is advantageous that the opening in the headgear can be provided with elastic properties. The opening accommodates the gasmask extending at least partially through the opening. The opening with elastic properties promotes a proper sealing between the opening and the gasmask and effectively reduces the risk of leakages between the opening and the gasmask, even under intense movement. The opening may comprise one or more layers of material, wherein at least one layer of the one or more layers of material can be provided with elastic properties. An innermost layer of the opening, which is in direct contact with the gasmask, may comprise an elastic band. The elastic band can be stretched to tightly fit to the gasmask and create a reliable sealing between the gasmask and the opening even under intense movement. An outermost layer of the opening, which is in direct contact with an ambient environment, may comprise a drawstring and a cord lock. This configuration can apply extra pressure to inner layer(s) of the opening and promote the proper sealing between the gasmask and the opening. The opening may comprise an intermediate layer comprising activated carbon and / or an intermediate layer for providing shielding against aerosol warfare agents.

[0073]

[0054] It is advantageous to provide elastic properties to the uninterrupted circumference of the opening, because this configuration ensures a tension applied by the elastic opening is to be properly and evenly distributed. The properly and evenly distributed tension along the circumference of the opening promotes the proper sealing between the gasmask and the opening, thereby preventing to some extent the leakages around the opening.

[0074]

[0055] According to some embodiments, the zipper may be covered at an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket by at least two outer flaps, comprising a first outer flap adapted to cover the zipper, and a second flap adapted to cover the first outer flap.

[0075]

[0056] In general, a flap is something that is broad, limber, or flat and usually thin and that hangs loose or projects freely from the CBRN-protective jacket. More specifically, a flap refers to a piece on a garment that hangs free. The zipper may be covered at an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket by two outer flaps, comprising a first outer flap and a second outer flap. Alternatively, the zipper may be covered at an outer sideof the CBRN-protective jacket by more than two outer flaps, such as for example three, four, five outer flaps. The at least two outer flaps can be secured to the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket by stitching, sewing, welding, and / or any other suitable solution. The first outer flap and the second outer flap may follow the path of the zipper from the start end of the zipper towards the finishing end of the zipper. In the case of two outer flaps, each of the outer flaps may run along a chain of the zipper, at one of the left and right side of the zipper. The material of the at least two outer flaps may be identical to a textile material from which the CBRN-protective jacket is made.

[0076]

[0057] It is advantageous to cover the zipper at the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket by at least two outer flaps, because this facilitates to a large extent the possibility to have protection against splashes and / or droplets of chemical or bacteriological weapons, the splashes and / or droplets flying towards the wearer.

[0077]

[0058] According to some embodiments, the chest section and the belly section below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket may comprise first fastening means and the second outer flap below the shoulder line of the wearer may comprise second fastening means. The second fastening means may fasten onto the first fastening means, thereby fastening the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0078]

[0059] It is advantageous to fasten the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket. Due to movements of the wearer, such as stretching the body, bending over the body or any other possible movement especially during extended wearing, the first outer flap, which is adapted to cover the zipper, may at least partially expose the zipper to the ambient environment. Moreover, the second outer flap, which is adapted to cover the first outer flap may at least partially expose the first outer flap and subsequently at least partially expose the zipper due to movements of the wearer, especially during extended wearing. The zipper can be the weak points for possible leakage of the CBRN threats, thereby making the wearer in contact with the CBRN threats. Furthermore, the first outer flap, which is adapted to cover the zipper, may at least partially expose the zipper to the ambient environment due to harsh weather conditions, such as strong wind, a storm, heavy rain, or any other possible weather conditions. The second outer flap, which is adapted to cover the firstouter flap may at least partially expose the first outer flap and subsequently at least partially expose the zipper due to possible harsh weather conditions. In the above two cases, the wearer can be at risk to be exposed to the CBRN threats. However, by fastening the first outer flap and the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket, the chance of at least partially exposing the zipper and / or the first outer flap to the CBRN threats is largely decreased, thereby improving safety conditions of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0079]

[0060] As an advantage, the first fastening means and the second fastening means are useful or helpful in making the second outer flap fast and secure when covering the first outer flap and the zipper. Moreover, the first fastening means and the second fastening means refer to something useful or helpful in making the second outer flap fix firmly and securely to the chest section and the belly section below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Preferably, the first fastening means and the second fastening means are hook-and-loop fasteners, which are also known as hook-and-pile fasteners, touch fasteners or any other alternative name. Alternatively, the first fastening means and the second fastening means can be referred to by the genericized trademark Velcro. Preferably, the first fastening means and the second fastening means allow the second outer flap to be repeatedly fastened and unfastened to the chest section and the belly section below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0080]

[0061] Preferably, the first fastening means and the second fastening means can be two linear fabric strips or smaller segments that are attached to opposing surfaces configurated to be fastened together. Furthermore, one of the first fastening means and the second fastening means comprises tiny hooks, and the other of the first fastening means and the second fastening means comprises smaller loops. One of the opposing surfaces is the surface of the second outer flap facing the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The other of the opposing surfaces is the surface of the chest section and the belly section facing the ambient environment below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The two linear fabric strips or smaller segments can be sewn, glued and / or via any other suitable adhering method to the respective opposing surfaces.

[0062] Preferably, the first fastening means and the second fastening means may follow the path of the zipper from the start end of the zipper towards the finishing end of the zipper which is located below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. This improvement has the advantage in ensuring a secure and fast covering of the second outer flap over the full path of the zipper, thereby ensuring a secure and fast sealing of the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, one or both of the first fastening means and the second fastening means may be longer in dimension than a length of the zipper which is located below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket, and at least the start end of the zipper can be covered by both the first fastening means and the second fastening means.

[0081]

[0063] Preferably, each of the first fastening means and the second fastening means run along a chain of the zipper. Preferably, each of the first fastening means and the second fastening means run continuously along the chain of the zipper, which means that the first fastening means and the second fastening means are single-piece respectively being free of interruption. Alternatively, one or both of the first fastening means and the second fastening means can comprise more than one pieces, meaning that one or both the first fastening means and the second fastening means can be multiple-piece. In the case of one or both of the first fastening means and the second fastening means being multiple-piece, preferably, the gaps between every two of adjacent fastening pieces are small, such as for example being equal to or smaller than 5 cm, preferably being equal to or smaller than 3 cm, e.g. 2.5 cm or less. Preferably, vertical centres of the fastening pieces either of the first fastening means or of the second fastening means are centre aligned. Both the first fastening means and the second fastening means may be located at the right or left side of the zipper.

[0082]

[0064] Alternatively, the first fastening means and the second fastening means can be one or more of the following:

[0083] - an elastic band;

[0084] - a snap button;

[0085] - a buckle and a clip;

[0086] - a drawstring and a cord lock;

[0087] - a hook-and-loop fastener;any other possible solution.

[0088]

[0065] According to some embodiments, the second outer flap above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket may comprise third fastening means comprising an elastic element. The third fastening means may fasten the second outer flap to the first outer flap, thereby fastening the second outer flap to the back section of the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0089]

[0066] It is advantageous to fasten the second outer flap to the back section of the CBRN-protective jacket via the third fastening means comprising an elastic element. Due to the wearer’s head movement, such as looking over the shoulder, lowering the head or any other possible movement, especially during long-term wearing, the first outer flap, which is adapted to cover the zipper, may at least partially expose the zipper to the ambient environment. Moreover, the second outer flap, which is adapted to cover the first outer flap may at least partially expose the first outer flap and subsequently at least partially expose the zipper due to the wearer’s movement, especially during extended wearing. The zipper can be the weak points through which CBRN threats may leak, thereby exposing the wearer to CBRN threats. In addition, due to possible adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds, heavy rain or any other possible weather conditions, the first outer flap for covering the zipper may at least partially expose the zipper to the surrounding environment. The second outer flap, which is adapted to cover the first outer flap may at least partially expose the first outer flap and subsequently at least partially expose the zipper due to possible harsh weather conditions. In both of the above cases, the wearer may face the risk of being exposed to CBRN threats. However, by fastening the first outer flap and the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket, the possibility of the zipper and / or the first outer flap being at least partially exposed to the CBRN threats is greatly reduced, thereby improving the safety conditions of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0090]

[0067] As an advantage, the third fastening means is useful or helpful in making the second outer flap fast and secure when covering the first outer flap and the zipper. Moreover, the third fastening means refers to something useful and helpful in making the second outer flap fix firmly and securely to the back section above the shoulderline of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. Preferably, the third fastening means comprise at least one drawstring and at least one cord lock. Preferably, the third fastening means allow the second outer flap to be repeatedly fastened and unfastened to the back section above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. The at least one drawstring can be threaded through a hem or a casing (a continuous tube of material) or laced through holes, which may be lined with eyelets. Alternatively, the at least one drawstring may be laced through loops attached to the material, like belt loops. Preferably, the at least one drawstring is threaded through a casing, which is a space formed between two parallel lines of stitching through at least two layers of cloth into which the at least one drawstring can be inserted. The at least two layers of cloth can be part of the second outer flap. Preferably, the second outer flap is oriented with its opening facing down towards a ground when the CBRN-protective jacket is worn by the wearer and a rim of the second outer flap is fastened by the at least one drawstring and the at least one cord lock. This improvement has an advantage in protecting the wearer against splashes and / or droplets and / or aerosols of chemical or bacteriological weapons and / or any other liquid that may fall down due to gravity, the splashes and / or droplets and / or aerosols and / or any liquid flying towards the wearers during combat.

[0091]

[0068] It is advantageous that the third fastening means comprise at least one drawstring and at least one cord lock, because such third fastening means are efficient in fastening and in inspecting. The cord lock allows the wearer to fasten the second outer flap to the first outer flap, thereby fastening the second outer flap to the back section of the CBRN-protective jacket in conditions when the fingers are encased in heavy gloves and / or the arms have limited flexibility to press / touch the rim of the second outer flap. By squeezing a barrel and a toggle / plunger together and pulling the drawstring, the third fastening means can be fastened within seconds. Meanwhile, the third fastening means can be loosened within seconds by squeezing the barrel and the toggle / plunger together and releasing the drawstring. Preferably, the third fastening means comprise one drawstring and one cord lock, wherein the cord lock is located at other than the finishing end of the zipper. Alternatively, the third fastening means comprise two cord locks, wherein the cord locks are located at the left side and the right side of the wearer. Preferably, the drawstring can be independently fastened / loosened by any of the at least one cord lock.

[0069] Preferably, the third fastening means may follow the path of the zipper from the start end of the zipper towards the finishing end of the zipper which is located above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket. This improvement has the advantage in ensuring a secure and fast covering of the second outer flap over the full path of the zipper, thereby ensuring a secure and fast sealing of the CBRN-protective jacket. Alternatively, the third fastening means may be longer in dimension than a length of the zipper which is located above the shoulder line of the wearer, and at least the finishing end of the zipper can be covered by both the third fastening means.

[0092]

[0070] Preferably, the third fastening means run along a chain of the zipper. Preferably, the third fastening means run continuously along the chain of the zipper, which means that the third fastening means is single-piece being free of interruption. Alternatively, the third fastening means can comprise more than one pieces being connected together via sewing, gluing and / or any other suitable solution.

[0093]

[0071] According a second aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure relates a method for donning the CBRN-protective jacket, the method for donning the CBRN-protective jacket comprises the steps of:

[0094] - pulling the rim of the headgear over the wearer’s head; and

[0095] - zipping the zipper following a closing path, which extends continuously from the start end towards the finishing end.

[0096]

[0072] Hence, the method according to the second aspect of the disclosure may enable the wearer to don the CBRN-protective jacket according to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0097]

[0073] It is advantageous to don the CBRN-protective jacket in two steps, because this improvement facilitates fast and reliable donning of the CBRN-protective jacket. The wear can obtain reliable protection against the CBRN threats after a minimized donning time, thereby improving the safety conditions of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0074] Preferably, the wearer puts on the CBRN-protective jacket but leaves the zipper unzippered. The wearer puts on the gasmask. After that, the wearer may pull and / or release the opening in the headgear to accommodate the gasmask extending at least partially through the opening. Alternatively, the wearer may further fasten at least one drawstring being located in the circumference of the opening by at least one cord lock. Then, the wearer pulls the rim of the headgear from a position in front of the wearer’s head to over the wearer’s head. Subsequently, the wearer zips up the zipper following a closing path, which extends continuously from the start end towards the finishing end. The zipper may be a two-way zipper. Following that, the wearer may cover the zipper with the first outer flap. It can be checked whether the first outer flap is properly covering the zipper by touching and / or pressing the first outer flap along the closure path of the zipper. Afterwards, the wearer may fasten the second outer flap onto the first outer flap, thereby fastening the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket. The wearer may align the first fastening means with the second fastening means and may press the first fastening means and the second fastening means together. As a result, the second outer flap below the shoulder line of the wearer is fastened onto the first fastening means, thereby fastening the second outer flap to the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket. Following that, the wearer may squeeze the at least one cord lock and pull the at least one drawstring, thereby fastening the third fastening means. As a result, the second outer flap above the shoulder line of the wearer is fastened to the back section of the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0098]

[0075] The method may further comprise any one or more of the following: inserting arms into sleeves, inserting legs into trouser legs of a CBRN-protective suit, fastening fourth fastening means and fifth fastening means around the wrists, donning two protective gloves, fastening sixth fastening means and seventh fastening means around the ankles, donning two protective boots or overboots.

[0099]

[0076] According to a third aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure relates a method for doffing the CBRN-protective jacket, the method for doffing the CBRN-protective jacket comprises the steps of:

[0100] - unzipping the zipper following an opening path, which extends continuously from the start end towards the finishing end; andpulling the rim of the headgear away from the wearer’s head.

[0101]

[0077] Hence, the method according to the third aspect of the disclosure may enable the wearer to doff the CBRN-protective jacket according to the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0102]

[0078] It is advantageous to doff the CBRN-protective jacket by pulling the rim of the headgear away from the wearer’s head. In addition to protecting the wearer from exposure to the CBRN threats, preferably, the CBRN-protective jacket can also protect the wearer from being contaminated by the contaminated CBRN-protective jacket. By pulling the rim of the headgear away from the wearer’s head, the potentially contaminated headgear is removed from the wearer’s head and the subsequently exposed face and / or throat. This improvement reduces the chance of secondary contamination and further protects the wearer, even during the doffing process.

[0103]

[0079] To doff the CBRN-protective jacket, the wearer can firstly unfasten the first fastening means and the second fastening means by removing / detaching the first fastening means from the second fastening means. In sequence, the wearer can unfasten the third fastening means by squeezing the at least one cord lock and releasing the at least one drawstring. As a result, the second outer flap below the shoulder line of the wearer can be unfastened from the chest section and the belly section of the CBRN-protective jacket. Moreover, the second outer flap above the shoulder line of the wearer can be unfastened from the back section of the CBRN-protective jacket. After that, the first outer flap can be pulled aside to uncover the zipper from the start end to the finishing end of the zipper. Following that, the wearer unfastens the zipper following an opening path, which extends continuously from the start end towards the finishing end. The zipper is preferably a two-way zipper. Next, the wearer pulls the rim of the headgear away from the wearer’s head. The wearer can further pull the rim of the headgear away from the gasmask. Alternatively, the wearer may squeeze at least one cord lock and loosen at least one drawstring in the opening to unfasten the opening. The gasmask can be removed. Thereafter, the CBRN-protective jacket can be completely doffed.

[0080] The method may further comprise any one or more of the following: removing the arms from the sleeves, removing the legs from the trouser legs of the CBRN-protective suit, unfastening the fourth fastening means and the fifth fastening means around the wrists, removing the two protective gloves, unfastening the sixth fastening means and the seventh fastening means around the ankles, removing the two protective boots or overboots.

[0104]

[0081] According a fourth aspect of the disclosure, a CBRN-protective suit comprising the CBRN-protective jacket.

[0105]

[0082] A CBRN-protective suit comprises the CBRN-protective jacket according to the first aspect of the disclosure. The CBRN-protective suit may comprise two separate pieces, i.e. the CBRN-protective jacket and a CBRN-protective trouser. Alternatively, the CBRN-protective can be an integral garment, so that the CBRN-protective jacket forms an integral part with the CBRN-protective trouser. The CBRN-protective jacket according to the first aspect of the disclosure can be part of an overall, a jumpsuit, a coverall or any other suitable solution.

[0106]

[0083] The features of the CBRN-protective jacket according to the first aspect of the disclosure may be combined with these CBRN-protective suits according to the fourth aspect of the disclosure.

[0107]

[0084] It is clear that one or more features of one of the aspects of the disclosure may be construed with one, more or all aspects of one or more other aspects of the disclosure.

[0108] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0109]

[0085] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0110]

[0086] Fig. 1 depicts schematically a front view of a CBRN-protective jacket according to the disclosure.

[0087] Fig. 2 depicts schematically a back view of the CBRN-protective jacket with an unfastened volume-reducing element according to the disclosure.

[0111]

[0088] Fig. 3 depicts schematically the back view of the CBRN-protective jacket with a fastened volume-reducing element according to the disclosure.

[0112]

[0089] Fig. 4 depicts schematically a left view of the CBRN-protective jacket with the fastened volume-reducing element according to the disclosure.

[0113]

[0090] Fig. 5 depicts schematically a right view of the CBRN-protective jacket with the fastened volume-reducing element according to the disclosure.

[0114]

[0091] Fig. 6 depicts schematically a first variant regarding a closing of a zipper being covered with flaps on an inner side and an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket according to the disclosure.

[0115]

[0092] Fig. 7 depicts schematically a second variant regarding the closing of the zipper being covered with the flaps on the inner side and the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket according to the disclosure.

[0116]

[0093] In different figures, identical reference / signs refer to the same or a similar feature having or performing a same or a similar function.

[0117] Detailed Description of Embodiment(s)

[0118]

[0094] Axes 2, 3 and 4 are orthogonal to each other and indicate directions from which a CBRN-protective jacket 100 according to the present disclosure is observed. Axis 4 is a longitudinal direction of the CBRN-protective jacket 100, axis 2 is a transverse direction of the CBRN-protective jacket 100, and axis 3 is a third direction transverse to axis 2 and axis 4. Dashed arrow 5 indicates a center line of the CBRN-protective jacket 100.

[0095] Fig. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a CBRN-protective jacket 100 according to the present disclosure. Fig. 1 depicts schematically a front view of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 according to the disclosure.

[0119]

[0096] The CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprises two chest sections 110, a headgear 130 and a zipper. The headgear 130 is connected to the chest section 110. The headgear comprises an opening 140 for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening 140. The opening 140 has an uninterrupted circumference. The zipper 150 comprises a start end 151 and a finishing end 152. The finishing end 152 is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100.

[0120]

[0097] The finishing end 152 of the zipper 150 is provided below the ear and in line with a shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The start end 151 is positioned at a lefthand side 101 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The finishing end 152 of the zipper is positioned at a righthand side 102 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The zipper follows a closing path which extends continuously from the start end 151 towards a rim of the headgear 130, and towards the finishing end 152. The zipper is a two-way zipper, meaning that the zipper can be unzipped from the start end 151 to the finishing end 152 of the zipper and the zipper can be unzipped from the finishing end 152 to the start end 151 of the zipper. The CBRN-protective jacket 100 further comprises two belly sections 170. The start end 151 is positioned in the belly section 170. It is understandable that the start end 151 can be alternatively positioned in the chest section 110. The CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprises a lefthand-side chest section 112, a righthand-side chest section 111, a lefthand-side belly section 172 and a righthand-side belly section 171.

[0121]

[0098] The uninterrupted circumference of the opening 140 in the headgear 130 is provided with elastic properties. It is understandable that there can be fastening means inside the circumference of the opening 140 to seal the connection between the gasmask and the circumference of the opening 140. The fastening means can be such as for example a drawstring and a cord lock.

[0099] The zipper is covered at an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 by two outer flaps, comprising a second outer flap 154 as indicated in Fig. 1. The lefthandside chest section 112 and the lefthand-side belly section 172 below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprise first fastening means. The second outer flap 154 below the shoulder line of the wearer comprises second fastening means. The second fastening means fastens onto the first fastening means, thereby fastening the second outer flap 154 to the lefthand-side chest section 112 and the lefthand-side belly section 172 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The second outer flap 154 above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprises third fastening means 157 comprising an elastic element.

[0122]

[0100] Fig. 2 depicts schematically a back view of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 with an unfastened volume-reducing element 160 according to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 fulfil the same function.

[0123]

[0101] The CBRN-protective jacket 100 further comprises a back section 120 opposite to the chest section 110. The zipper connects the headgear 130 to the back section 120, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The headgear 130 comprises one volume-reducing element 160 for fitting the hood to the wearer’s head when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The zipper follows a closing path which extends continuously from the start end 151 towards the rim of the headgear 130, along the rim of the headgear 130 covering the nape of the wearer, and towards the finishing end 152. More specifically, the zipper extends in the headgear 130 covering the nape of the wearer below the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The zipper is a two-way zipper.

[0124]

[0102] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the volume-reducing element 160 is provided on the headgear 130 above and covering the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The volume-reducing element 160 comprises a soft band 162 and a soft patch 161. The soft band 162 and the soft patch 161 can be elastic. Alternatively, the soft band 162 and the soft patch 161 can be nonelastic. The soft band 162 is fastened to the soft patch 161 via a hook-and-loop fastener. A side of the softband 162 facing the headgear 130 comprises tiny hooks along the entire length of the soft band 162. The soft patch 161 comprises small loops. As a result, the soft band 162 can be fastened to the soft patch 161 at a plurality of points so that the hood can be customized to fit the wearer’s head when the CBRN-protective jacket 100 is worn. Alternatively, the side of the soft band 162 facing the headgear 130 comprises small loops along the entire length of the soft band 162. The soft patch 161 comprises tiny hooks. It is understandable that the volume-reducing element 160 comprising the soft band 162 and the soft patch 161 may have any different dimension, shape, position, material and / or fastening means from the example embodiments as illustrated in Fig.

[0125] 2.

[0126]

[0103] The zipper is covered at the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 by at least two outer flaps, comprising the second outer flap 154 adapted to cover the zipper. As illustrated in Fig. 2, the second outer flap 154 above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprises the third fastening means 157 comprising an elastic element. The third fastening means 157 fastens the second outer flap 154 to the back section 120 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The third fastening means 157 comprise at least one drawstring and at least one cord lock. The second outer flap 154 is oriented with its opening towards a waist of the wearer.

[0127]

[0104] In Fig. 2, the soft band 162 of the volume-reducing element 160 is not yet fastened to the soft patch 161 and the soft band 162 is flipped over to illustrate the fastening method, such as for example the hook-and-loop fastener. In Fig. 3, the soft band 162 of the volume-reducing element 160 is fastened to the soft patch 161 , thereby the hood fitting better to the wearer’s head.

[0128]

[0105] Fig. 3 depicts schematically the back view of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 with a fastened volume-reducing element 160 according to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 fulfil the same function.

[0129]

[0106] Fig. 4 depicts schematically a left view of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 with the fastened volume-reducing element 160 according to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 fulfil the samefunction. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the zipper connects the headgear 130 to the back section 120, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The example CBRN-protective jacket 100 comprises one volume-reducing element 160 being located around the middle of the headgear 130. By fastening the volume-reducing element 160, fabric of the hood is mostly folded on the back of the headgear 130, while the fabric of the hood at the front side of the headgear 130 is more straightened due to tension(s) applied by the volume-reducing element 160 located on the back of the headgear 130. The folding of the fabric of the hood is indicated by the thin solid curves under the volume-reducing element 160.

[0130]

[0107] The start end 151 of the zipper is positioned at the lefthand side 101 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100, which is located at the left belly section 172. The zipper follows a closing path which extends continuously from the start end 151 at the left belly section 172 towards the left chest section 112, further towards a rim of the headgear 130, along the rim of the headgear 130 covering the nape of the wearer. The zipper extends in the headgear 130 covering the nape of the wearer below the occipital bone of the wearer. The second outer flap 154 adapted to cover the zipper is fastened with the third fastening means 157 above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The third fastening means 157 is provided with elastic properties through at least one drawstring and at least one cord lock. The second outer flap 154 is oriented with its opening towards the waist of the wearer.

[0131]

[0108] Fig. 5 depicts schematically a right view of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 with the fastened volume-reducing element 160vaccording to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 fulfil the same function.

[0132]

[0109] In Fig. 5, the finishing end 152 of the zipper is further illustrated, which is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The headgear 130 is connected to the chest section 110. The zipper connects the headgear 130 to the back section 120, thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. More specifically, the finishing end 152 of the zipper is providedbelow the ear and in line with a shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The finishing end 152 of the zipper is fully covered by the second outer flap 154 and the second outer flap 154 is further fastened by the third fastening means 157. This embodiment extends the distance that the CBRN threats need to travel from the ambient environment to the zipper. An end of the second outer flap 154 being located above the finishing end 152 of the zipper is further secured to the CBRN-protective jacket 100 via sewing, thereby causing the end of the second outer flap 154 to be closed. It is understandable that the end of the second outer flap 154 can be secured to the CBRN-protective jacket 100 via any other suitable method, such as for example gluing.

[0133]

[0110] Fig. 6 depicts schematically a first variant regarding a closing of the zipper 150 being covered with flaps on an inner side and an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 according to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 or Fig. 5 fulfil the same function.

[0134]

[0111] The first variant regarding the closing of the zipper 150 depicts the zipper 150 being sealed below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. As illustrated in Fig. 6, the zipper 150 is covered at the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 by two outer flaps, comprising a first outer flap 153 adapted to cover the zipper 150 and a second outer flap 154 adapted to cover the first outer flap 153. An inner closing flap 158 is provided to cover at least both tapes of the zipper 150. The zipper 150 couples the lefthand side 101 and the righthand side 102 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. As depicted in Fig. 6, the zipper 150 couples the left chest section 112 and the right chest section 111. In addition, the zipper 150 couples the left belly section 172 and the right belly section 171. The first outer flap 153 is sewed to the lefthand side 101 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 and the second outer flap 154 is sewed to the righthand side 102 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The first outer flap 153 is dimensioned such that a non-connected side of the first outer flap 153 extends at least beyond both tapes of the zipper 150. The second outer flap 154 is dimensioned to extend at least over a width of the zipper 150 and a width of the first outer flap 153. The second outer flap 154 is fastened to the left chest section 112 and to the left belly section 172 via the first fastening means 155 and the second fastening means 156. The first fastening means 155 and the second fastening means156 are demonstrated in the detailed enlargement (circled and directed by the dashed circles and the dashed lines). The second fastening means 156 is positioned in the second outer flap 154 and the first fastening means 155 is positioned in the left chest section 112 and the left belly section 172. With the first fastening means 155 and the second fastening means 156, the second outer flap 154 is fastened to the left chest section 112 and the left belly section 172 of the CBRN-protective jacket. It is understandable that the first outer flap 153 and / or the second outer flap 154 can be oriented towards an opposite direction to the direction as indicated in Fig. 6. The first fastening means 155 and the second fastening means 156 can be located at a righthand side of the zipper 150. The first fastening means 155 and the second fastening means 156 form a hook-and-loop fastener. The first fastening means 155 comprise small loops and the second fastening means 156 comprise tiny hooks. Alternatively, it is understandable that the first fastening means 155 may comprise small loops and the second fastening means 156 may comprise tiny hooks. It is also understandable that the first fastening means and the second fastening means may comprise one or more of the following:

[0135] - an elastic band;

[0136] - a snap button;

[0137] - a buckle and a clip;

[0138] - a drawstring and a cord lock;

[0139] - a hook-and-loop fastener;

[0140] - and alike.

[0141]

[0112] Fig. 7 depicts schematically a second variant regarding the closing of the zipper 150 being covered with the flaps on the inner side and the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 according to the disclosure. Components having identical reference numbers than on Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 or Fig. 5 or Fig. 6 fulfil the same function.

[0142]

[0113] The second variant regarding a closing of a zipper 150 depicts the zipper 150 sealed above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket 100. As illustrated in Fig. 7, the zipper 150 is covered at the outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 by two outer flaps, comprising a first outer flap 153 adapted to cover the zipper 150 and a second outer flap 154 adapted to cover the first outer flap153. An inner closing flap 158 is provided to cover at least both tapes of the zipper 150. The zipper 150 couples the back section 120 and the headgear 130 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The first outer flap 153 is sewed to the back section 120 and the second outer flap 154 is sewed to the headgear 130 of the CBRN-protective jacket 100. The first outer flap 153 is dimensioned such that a non-connected side of the first outer flap 153 extends at least beyond both tapes of the zipper 150. The second outer flap 154 is dimensioned to extend at least over a width of the zipper 150 and a width of the first outer flap 153. The second outer flap 154 is fastened to the back section 120 via the third fastening means 157. The third fastening means 157 comprise an elastic element, which is at least one drawstring and at least one cord lock. The third fastening means 157 is positioned at the rim of the second outer flap 154. It is understandable that Fig. 7 shows an example embodiment of the third fastening means 157 and the third fastening means 157 may vary from the example embodiment as shown in Fig. 7, in terms of such as for example dimension, shape, position, and / or material. The third fastening means 157 may be any other suitable fastening means with elastic properties. The third fastening means 157 may further comprise one or more of the following:

[0143] - an elastic band;

[0144] - a snap button;

[0145] - a buckle and a clip;

[0146] - a hook-and-loop fastener;

[0147] - and alike.

[0148]

[0114] It is understandable that the first outer flap 153 and / or the second outer flap 154 can be oriented towards an opposite direction to the direction as indicated in Fig. 7. The third fastening means 157 can be located at the headgear 130.

[0149]

[0115] The CBRN-protective jacket 100 is made of a layered textile material that meets military requirements, such as for example NATO requirements. The outer layer of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 is preferably a water- and / or oil-repellent textile layer to provide protection from liquid chemical warfare agents. Moreover, the outer layer of the CBRN-protective jacket 100 has appropriate infrared, IR reflectance. The outer surface of the outer layer may have a camouflage print to suit a specific environment in which the CBRN-protective jacket 100 will be used. Preferably, the outer layer isflame-retardant. Under the outer layer, one or more intermediate layers may be provided, such as for example an intermediate layer comprising activated carbon. Underneath this or these intermediate layers, a liner may be provided to improve the comfort of the wearer.

[0150]

[0116] The zipper 150 is water-tight, water-repellent, and gas-tight. It is understandable that the zipper 150 may have varied embodiments as illustrated in Fig. 1 -7, such as for example, the dimension, the location, the material, and / or the shape.

[0151]

[0117] Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the scope of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

[0152]

[0118] It will furthermore be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words “comprising” or “comprise” do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words “a” or “an” do not exclude a plurality, and that a single element may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective claims concerned. The terms “first”, “second”, third”, “a”, “b”, “c”, and the like, when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, and the like are introduced for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described or illustrated above.

Claims

- 38 -CLAIMS1. A CBRN-protective jacket (100) comprising:- at least one chest section (110);- at least one back section (120) opposite to the chest section (110);- a headgear (130) connected to the chest section (110), wherein the headgear (130) comprises an opening (140) for accommodating a gasmask extending at least partially through the opening (140); wherein the opening (140) has an uninterrupted circumference; and- a zipper (150) comprising a start end (151) and a finishing end (152), wherein the finishing end (152) is positioned between an ear and a respective shoulder of a wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100), and wherein the zipper (150) connects the headgear (130) to the back section (120), thereby forming a hood which fully encloses the head and the neck of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

2. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the headgear (130) comprises at least one volume-reducing element (160) for fitting the hood to the wearer’s head when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

3. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the finishing end (152) of the zipper (150) is provided below the ear and in line with a shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

4. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the start end (151 ) is positioned at one of a left- (101 ) and righthand (102) side of the CBRN-protective jacket (100); and wherein the finishing end (152) of the zipper (150) is positioned at the other of the left- (101 ) and righthand (102) side of the CBRN-protective jacket (100) than the start end (151); and wherein the zipper (150) follows a closing path which extends continuously from the start end (151) towards a rim of the headgear (130), along the rim of the headgear (130) covering the nape of the wearer, and towards the finishing end (152).- 39 -5. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 4, wherein the zipper (150) extends in the headgear (130) covering the nape of the wearer below the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

6. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the zipper (150) is a two-way zipper.

7. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the CBRN-protective jacket (100) further comprises at least one belly section (170), and wherein the start end (151) is positioned in the belly section (170) or in the chest section (110).

8. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 2, wherein the volumereducing element (160) is provided:- on the headgear (130) above and / or covering the occipital bone of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100) when the volume-reducing element (160) comprises a soft material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material; or - on the headgear (130) at the nape of the wearer when wearing the CBRN- protective jacket (100) when the volume-reducing element (160) comprises a soft material or a rigid material or an elastic material or a nonelastic material.

9. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 1, wherein the uninterrupted circumference of the opening (140) in the headgear (130) is provided with elastic properties.

10. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the zipper (150) is covered at an outer side of the CBRN-protective jacket (100) by at least two outer flaps, comprising a first outer flap (153) adapted to cover the zipper (150) and a second outer flap (154) adapted to cover the first outer flap (153).

11. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 3 and 10, wherein the chest section (110) and the belly section (170) below the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100) comprise first fastening means (155),- 40 -and wherein the second outer flap (154) below the shoulder line of the wearer comprises second fastening means (156); and wherein the second fastening means (156) fastens onto the first fastening means (155), thereby fastening the second outer flap (154) to the chest section (110) and the belly section (170) of the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

12. The CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to claim 11, wherein the second outer flap (154) above the shoulder line of the wearer when wearing the CBRN-protective jacket (100) comprises third fastening means (157) comprising an elastic element; and wherein the third fastening means (157) fastens the second outer flap (154) to the first outer flap (153), thereby fastening the second outer flap (154) to the back section (120) of the CBRN-protective jacket (100).

13. A method for donning the CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the steps of:- pulling the rim of the headgear (130) over the wearer’s head; and- zipping the zipper (150) following a closing path, which extends continuously from the start end (151 ) towards the finishing end (152).

14. A method for doffing the CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the method comprises the steps of:- unzipping the zipper (150) following an opening path, which extends continuously from the start end (151) towards the finishing end (152); and- pulling the rim of the headgear (130) away from the wearer’s head.

15. A CBRN-protective suit (10) comprising the CBRN-protective jacket (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 12.

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