EN 14404 Personal Protective Equipment - Knee Protectors for Working in the Kneeling Position

In the EN 14404 standard, which is a European standard, the requirements and test methods of knee protectors used in the kneeling position are explained. This standard includes the necessary conditions for marking knee protectors and the information to be provided by the manufacturer.

This standard also defines performance levels for knee protectors. However, this standard does not cover knee protectors which are medical devices or for sports purposes. Briefly, knee pads certified according to EN 14404 standard protect the user in the kneeling position while working.

Kneeling is an unnatural working position. Without knee protectors, workers may experience discomfort from hard surfaces and objects on the surfaces. However, no knee protector can ensure that workers are not exposed to medical complications when kneeling is required for extended periods of time.

Knee protectors should not disrupt the natural system of the leg when kneeling or standing. Therefore, it should be easy for workers to change positions and stand up frequently to restore normal blood circulation while wearing knee protectors. Therefore, all workers in the kneeling position must wear knee protection. The guard must distribute forces evenly and prevent disturbance by small objects on the ground.

According to the EN 14404 standard, knee protection classes are classified as follows:

• Protection class 0: For smooth floor surfaces.
• Protection class 1: For flat or uneven floor surfaces. Protects against penetration with a force of at least 100 N.
• Protection class 2: For flat or rough floor surfaces under severe conditions. Protects against penetration with a force of at least 250 N.

According to the said standard, knee pad types are classified as follows:

• Type 1: Knee pads, independent from other clothing, are fixed around the legs.
• Type 2: Foam or other padded knee pads fasten to pockets on the legs.
• Type 3: Knee pads do not stick to the body, but are placed in place while the wearer moves.
• Type 4: A support frame for standing up or a piece of equipment with additional functions such as kneeling.

Our organization, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors, also provides testing services for knee protectors for working in the kneeling position within the scope of EN 14404 standard, with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.