EN 14404 - What you need to know about knee protection/knee pads.

EN 14404

KNEE PROTECTION FOR WORK IN A KNEELING POSITION

The topic of knee pads in accordance with EN 14404, particularly in the context of knee protection for work in a kneeling position, is becoming increasingly important in the world of work. Work that requires constant kneeling puts considerable strain on the knee joints and can lead to long-term health problems. The EN 14404 standard was developed to protect workers in such situations while ensuring efficiency and comfort.

This standard specifies requirements for knee pads that can be integrated into workwear to provide effective protection against mechanical stress and injuries in the knee area. In the following, we will take a closer look at the standards and requirements of EN 14404 and highlight the importance of knee protection for work in a kneeling position in the context of workplace safety and health protection.

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Description

This standard specifies the requirements for knee protection for work in a kneeling position. In addition to the requirements for the labelling of knee protection and manufacturer information, test methods and performance levels are defined.

Knee protection must be safe in use and fit for its purpose. It must be designed and manufactured to provide protection when used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions without endangering the wearer.

Requirements

EN 14404 sets out the following requirements:

Minimum values for the dimensions of the protective zones

Mechanical requirements for puncture resistance

Mequirements for comfort (e.g. no edges, seams or other unevenness on the inner surfaces of the product)

Requirements for manufacturing materials and substances contained therein

Requirements for the labelling of the knee protector and the manufacturer's information to be provided

Performance levels

Level 0: Knee protection suitable for a flat floor surface and offering no protection against puncture.
Level 1: Knee protection suitable for use on a flat or uneven floor surface providing protection against puncture at a force of at least 100 (± 5) N.
Level 2: Knee protection suitable for use on a flat or uneven floor surface under difficult conditions and providing protection against puncture at a force of at least 250 (± 10) N.

EN 14404 recognises four types of knee protection:

Type 1: Knee protection that is independent of other clothing and is attached to the leg.
Type 2: Foam plastic or other pads in pockets on the trouser legs or pads permanently attached to the trousers.
Type 3: Equipment that is not attached to the body.
Type 4: Knee protection that is part of devices with additional functions.

The knee protection used by BP® always corresponds to performance level 0 or 1, type 2.

Areas of application

Knee protection according to EN 14404 is used for all work where a lot of work is done on the knees. As this applies to many trades and industrial sectors, we refrain from listing individual areas of application.