Overview
ISO 10256-3:2024 - Protective equipment for use in ice hockey - Part 3: Face and eye protectors for skaters specifies performance requirements and test methods for eye and face protectors (visors and faceguards) used in ice hockey by skaters (non-goalkeepers) and referees. This second edition replaces the 2016 version and is focused on reducing localized injuries to the eyes and face through standardized safety, optical and mechanical performance criteria.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard covers these main technical areas:
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Types of protectors
- Designates two face protector types (B1, B2) and one eye protector type (C) for skaters.
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Ergonomics and fit
- Requirements for “as worn” positioning, interaction with certified head protectors (ISO 10256-2), and comfort/retention.
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Innocuousness (materials & design)
- Material safety and non-hazardous design to avoid sharp edges, toxic materials or skin irritation.
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Protected area and geometry
- Defined protected zones for each protector type to ensure consistent coverage.
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Mechanical resistance tests
- Penetration (test blade) and puck impact resistance tests to verify structural integrity under realistic hazards.
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Optical performance
- Field of vision, visual inspection, luminous transmittance, haze, and optical power (dioptre) requirements and test methods (referencing ISO methods such as ISO 13468‑2 and ISO 14782).
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Markings, information and test reporting
- Required labelling, user information, assembly/use guidance and standardized test-report format.
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Test methods and conditioning
- Sampling, conditioning, headform placement (EN 960 / CSA headforms) and sequence of tests; Annex A includes puck specifications.
Applications - who uses this standard
ISO 10256-3:2024 is primarily used by:
- Protective equipment manufacturers designing visors, faceguards and combined units with head protectors.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies performing compliance and type-testing.
- Sports federations, leagues and equipment procurement teams specifying minimum safety for player gear.
- Design engineers and R&D teams developing new transparent materials and retention systems.
- Rink operators and team equipment managers selecting compliant protective gear for players and referees.
Related standards
- ISO 10256-1:2024 - General requirements for ice hockey protective equipment
- ISO 10256-2:2024 - Head protectors for skaters
- EN 960:2006 - Headforms for helmet testing
- ISO 13468‑2:2021 - Luminous transmittance test for plastics
- ISO 14782:2021 - Haze determination for transparent materials
- CSA Z262.6‑14, ASTM D2240‑15 - Related test guidance
ISO 10256-3:2024 helps ensure consistent, testable safety performance for ice hockey face and eye protectors, supporting safer play through harmonized design, testing and labelling.
Open preview (PDF)Protective equipment for use in ice hockey — Part 3: Face and eye protectors for skaters
