Overview
EN ISO 11393-2:2019 - "Protective clothing for users of hand‑held chainsaws - Part 2: Performance requirements and test methods for leg protectors (ISO 11393-2:2018)" is a CEN-adopted international standard that specifies performance, test methods, design, marking and identification requirements for leg protectors (e.g., trousers, chaps, leggings) intended to reduce injury from cutting by hand‑held chainsaws. The standard replaces earlier EN 381 parts and was prepared by ISO/TC 94 in collaboration with CEN/TC 162. It also maps to EU Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on personal protective equipment.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard covers the full lifecycle of leg-protector assessment and certification, including:
- Scope and terminology: Definitions for leg protectors and protected zones.
- Performance requirements: Resistance to cutting by chainsaws (including classification by chain speed), durability, and strength of attachment for protective inserts.
- Test methods:
- Cut‑resistance testing with defined test specimens, apparatus and mounting.
- Pre‑treatment procedures (cleaning, temperature/spinning effects) and measurement of dimensional and other changes.
- Measurement of protective coverage for different designs (Trousers, Chaps, Design A/B/C).
- Tests for strength of attachment of protective inserts and strap attachments.
- Ergonomic assessment and surface‑condition testing.
- Design and marking:
- Requirements for sizing, ergonomics, innocuousness of materials (no harmful effects), and maximum user impediment.
- Mandatory marking, pictograms and manufacturer information for safe use and conformity.
- Documentation: Test reports and requirements for instruction and information to users.
Applications and users
This standard is essential for stakeholders involved in chainsaw safety and PPE:
- PPE manufacturers and designers - to design leg protectors that meet recognized performance and marking requirements.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies - to perform standardized cut‑resistance, attachment strength and ergonomic tests.
- Procurement officers and safety managers - to specify compliant leg protection for forestry workers, arborists, utility crews and land managers.
- Regulatory compliance teams - to demonstrate conformity with EU Regulation (EU) 2016/425 when the standard is referenced in the Official Journal.
Related standards
- Supersedes: EN 381-2:1995 and EN 381-5:1995 (previous European provisions for leg protection).
- Part of the ISO 11393 series on protective clothing for hand‑held chainsaw users; consult other parts for garments beyond leg protectors.
Keywords: EN ISO 11393-2:2019, leg protectors, chainsaw protective clothing, chainsaw cut resistance, PPE test methods, personal protective equipment, performance requirements.
