Portwest - Do You Know Booklet

WHAT IS EN14404? DO YOU KNOW 37

This is the European standard which specifies the performance requirements for kneepads. Here are 3 examples of specific tests conducted as part of the standard.

PENETRATION RESISTANCE TEST This test is used to assess the performance level of a kneepad to protect the knee against objects. In order to pass the test, the internal surface of the kneepads must not deflect by more than 5mm when a particular level of force is applied.

RESTRAINT TESTING This test is used to gauge how well the kneepads stay in position during use. This test is solely for Type 1 strap on kneepads. The straps must have a maximum width of 30mm and cannot stretch more than 40mm when a force of 10N is applied. This is to ensure that they stay in position and that they are not overly constrictive causing discomfort to the user. A type 1 kneepad is deemed to pass the restraint test based on feedback collated from test subjects.

SHOCK ABSORPTION TEST This test aims to simulate kneeling several times in quick succession. It involves a machine using a force of five joules of energy which strikes various parts of the knee pad five times within five minutes. The transmitted force (i.e. the residual impact not absorbed by the kneepad) is measured in Kn. In order for the kneepad to pass, the mean average of the 5 tests cannot exceed 3Kn and no single measurement can exceed 4Kn.

FORCE APPLIED

DEFLECTION

LEVEL

100N 100N 250N

> 5mm

0 1 2

< or = 5mm < or = 5mm

PORTWEST HAS 7 STYLES (KP55, KP44, S156, KP50, KP40, KP30 & KP20)CERTIFIED TO EN14404