Overview
EN ISO 11393-5:2019 (adoption of ISO 11393-5:2018) specifies performance requirements and test methods for protective gaiters used with hand-held chainsaws. The standard focuses on assessing cut resistance of gaiter materials and assemblies when struck by chainsaw chains, plus secondary properties such as fastener performance, twisting resistance and the strength of underfoot (attachment) straps. It applies to gaiters intended to be used only with a defined model of safety footwear (steel toecap conforming to ISO 20345, design C or D) and tested together. The document does not cover gaiters intended for high tripping-risk activities (e.g., tree climbing).
Key topics and requirements
- Cut resistance and classification - Requirements and test methods to evaluate how gaiter materials resist cutting action from hand‑held chainsaws; includes classification according to chain speed.
- Test methods - Procedures for preparing samples and performing chainsaw resistance tests, ergonomic assessments, twisting resistance and attachment strength tests.
- Attachment system and underfoot straps - Performance and test method for the strength of straps and fasteners that secure gaiters to footwear.
- Ergonomics and innocuousness - Requirements to limit user impediment, ensure comfort and avoid hazards from materials or design.
- Specified protective area - Definition of the area of the lower leg that must provide protection.
- Marking, pictogram and manufacturer information - Required labeling and documentation to support correct use and conformity.
- Conformity and legal alignment - Harmonised with EU requirements for PPE and referenced in relation to Regulation (EU) 2016/425 when cited in the Official Journal.
Applications and who uses this standard
- Manufacturers and designers of gaiters and protective lower‑leg assemblies who need to develop products tested together with defined footwear models.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies conducting cut‑resistance and mechanical performance testing.
- Procurement officers and safety managers specifying PPE for ground‑based chainsaw operations (forestry clearing, arboriculture ground crew, landscaping, municipal works) where gaiters are appropriate.
- Footwear manufacturers integrating gaiters with steel‑toecap boots to achieve complete lower‑leg protection.
Note: this standard is not intended for gaiters used where there is a significant tripping risk (e.g., tree climbing).
Related standards
- ISO 20345 - Safety footwear requirements (steel toecap).
- Supersedes EN 381‑8 and EN 381‑9 (previous editions).
- Aligns with ISO 11393 series (protective clothing for chainsaw users) and EU Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on PPE.
Keywords: protective gaiters, chainsaw protective clothing, cut resistance, EN ISO 11393-5:2019, ISO 11393-5:2018, underfoot straps, safety footwear, chainsaw test methods.
