Overview
ISO 10256-5:2026 sets out the performance requirements and testing methods for neck laceration protectors used in ice hockey. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this standard ensures that neck protectors effectively reduce the risk of laceration injury from skate blades for players, including goalkeepers and referees. Notably, ISO 10256-5:2026 does not address neck protection from impacts with pucks, sticks, or other objects; its focus lies firmly on mitigating cut risks in the designated protected area.
As ice hockey remains a high-speed, collision sport with inherent injury risks, proper neck protection is critical to player safety. Compliance with ISO 10256-5:2026 helps manufacturers, teams, and athletes select and utilize neck laceration protectors that meet rigorous international safety criteria.
Key Topics
- Scope of Protection: The standard applies specifically to protectors worn to reduce laceration risks from skate blades and is relevant for ice hockey players, goalkeepers, and referees.
- Types of Neck Laceration Protectors:
- Type E1: Includes a bib that covers both the neck and upper chest area.
- Type E2: Covers only the neck region.
- Requirements:
- Ergonomics: Must conform to wearer anatomy, be comfortable, and integrate well with other ice hockey equipment.
- Innocuousness: Protectors must not pose risks to the user or others during normal use and must permit access to the protected area in emergencies.
- Coverage: Clearly defined protected area based on neck form size and designation.
- Stability and Recovery: The protector must maintain its coverage even after being subjected to force.
- Cut Resistance: Verified through rigorous testing, ensuring effective cut protection in vulnerable areas.
- Markings and Information: Must display size, designation, and warnings regarding the limits of protection.
- Testing Methods:
- Tests include sample washing, ambient conditioning, and cut resistance evaluations according to international test standards (e.g., ISO 13997).
Applications
Ice Hockey Equipment Manufacturers:
Adopting ISO 10256-5:2026 is essential for manufacturers seeking to market compliant neck laceration protectors globally. Demonstrating adherence to the standard assures customers and regulatory bodies of product safety and quality.
Sports Teams and Associations:
Teams can specify compliance to ISO 10256-5:2026 in their equipment procurement policies to enhance player safety and reduce liability. Referees and goalkeepers, who have unique risk profiles, especially benefit from standardized protective gear.
Retailers and Distributors:
Retailers can use compliance as a key selling point and provide clear guidance to customers on choosing the right neck laceration protectors based on fit, intended use, and level of coverage (Type E1 or Type E2).
Testing Laboratories and Certification Bodies:
The standard’s detailed testing and reporting requirements support third-party evaluation and certification of ice hockey neck laceration protectors, ensuring market transparency and consumer trust.
Related Standards
- ISO 10256-1:2024 – General requirements for protective equipment in ice hockey
- ISO 13997 – Determination of resistance to cutting by sharp objects
- ISO 6330:2021 – Washing and drying procedures for textile testing
These related standards provide the testing protocols and baseline definitions that underpin ISO 10256-5:2026, supporting comprehensive assessment of protective ice hockey gear.
For manufacturers, teams, and users seeking reliable ice hockey neck protection, ISO 10256-5:2026 is a cornerstone international standard ensuring cut resistance, fit, and wearer safety.
Open preview (PDF)Protective equipment for use in ice hockey — Part 5: Neck laceration protectors for use in ice hockey
