BS EN 14404‑4:2024

BSI Standards Publication

Personal protective equipment — Knee

protectors for work in the kneeling position

Part 4: Requirements for the combination of interoperable

knee pads and garments (type 2)
BS EN 14404‑4:2024 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 14404‑4:2024. It
supersedes BS EN 14404:2004+A1:2010, which will be withdrawn upon
publication of the rest of the series.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee PH/3/14.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on
request to its committee manager.
Contractual and legal considerations
This publication has been prepared in good faith, however no
representation, warranty, assurance or undertaking (express or
implied) is or will be made, and no responsibility or liability is or will be
accepted by BSI in relation to the adequacy, accuracy, completeness or
reasonableness of this publication. All and any such responsibility and
liability is expressly disclaimed to the full extent permitted by the law.
This publication is provided as is, and is to be used at the
recipient’s own risk.
The recipient is advised to consider seeking professional guidance with
respect to its use of this publication.
This publication is not intended to constitute a contract. Users are
responsible for its correct application.
This publication has been prepared under a mandate given to the
European Standards Organizations by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association. It is intended to support requirements
of the EU legislation detailed in the European Foreword. A European
Annex, usually Annex ZA or ZZ, describes how this publication relates to
that EU legislation.
For the Great Britain market (England, Scotland and Wales), if UK
Government has designated this publication for conformity with UKCA
marking (or similar) legislation, it may contain an additional National
Annex. Where such a National Annex exists, it shows the correlation
between this publication and the relevant UK legislation. If there is no
National Annex of this kind, the relevant Annex ZA or ZZ in the body
of the European text will indicate the relationship to UK regulation
applicable in Great Britain. References to EU legislation may need to be
read in accordance with the UK designation and the applicable UK law.
Further information on designated standards can be found at
www.bsigroup.com/standardsandregulation.
For the Northern Ireland market, UK law will continue to implement
relevant EU law subject to periodic confirmation. Therefore
Annex ZA/ZZ in the European text, and references to EU legislation, are
still valid for this market.
UK Government is responsible for legislation. For information on
legislation and policies relating to that legislation, consult the relevant
pages of [http://www.gov.uk%3c/ext-link%3e.%3c/p]www.gov.uk.
© The British Standards Institution 2024
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2024
ISBN 978 0 539 02663 4
BRITISH STANDARD BS EN 14404‑4:2024

ICS 13.340.10; 13.340.50

Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 May 2024.

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

Date Text affected
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 14404-4

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM May 2024

ICS 13.340.50 Supersedes EN 14404:2004+A1:2010

English Version

Personal protective equipment - Knee protectors for work

in the kneeling position - Part 4: Requirements for the
combination of interoperable knee pads and garments
(type 2)
Équipements de protection individuelle - Protecteurs Persönliche Schutzausrüstung - Knieschutz für
de genoux pour le travail à genoux - Partie 4 : Arbeiten in kniender Haltung - Teil 4: Anforderungen
Exigences relatives à la combinaison de plaques de für die Kombination von interoperablen Kniepolstern
genouillères interopérables et de vêtements (type 2) und Bekleidung (Typ 2)

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 20 June 2022.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels

© 2024 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 14404-4:2024 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Contents Page

European foreword....................................................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 4
1 Scope .................................................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Normative references .................................................................................................................................... 6
3 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................................................... 6
4 Performance levels of knee protectors ................................................................................................... 7
5 Requirements ................................................................................................................................................... 8
5.1 Interoperable knee pad ................................................................................................................................ 8
5.2 Garments ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
6 Marking ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
6.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
6.2 Specific ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
7 Information to be supplied by the manufacturer ............................................................................. 16
7.1 Interoperable knee pad ............................................................................................................................. 16
7.2 Garment ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
Annex A (informative) Rationale ......................................................................................................................... 18
Annex B (informative) Information on the problems of using knee protectors for work in
the kneeling position .................................................................................................................................. 21
Annex C (informative) Information for Type 2 knee protector for arrangement of the knee
protection pocket ......................................................................................................................................... 22
Annex D (informative) Assessment of the combination of interoperable knee pad and
garment with interoperable pockets .................................................................................................... 23
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 of the European Parliament and of the
Council of 9 March 2016 on personal protective equipment aimed to be covered.............. 25
Bibliography ................................................................................................................................................................. 27

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European foreword

This document (EN 14404-4:2024) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 162 “Protective
clothing including hand and arm protection and life jackets”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by November 2024 and conflicting national standards shall
be withdrawn at the latest by November 2024.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

This document, together with EN 14404-1 to EN 14404-3 and EN 14404-5 to EN 14404-6, will supersede
EN 14404:2004+A1:2010.

This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.

For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this
document.

EN 14404 “Personal protective equipment — Knee protectors for work in the kneeling position” is split into
6 parts:

— Part 1: Test methods;

— Part 2: Requirements for wearable knee protectors (type 1);

— Part 3: Requirements for the individual combination of knee pads and garments (type 2);

— Part 4: Requirements for the combination of interoperable knee pads and garments (type 2);

— Part 5: Requirements for knee mats (type 3);

— Part 6: Requirements for kneeling systems (type 4).

With the splitting of the standard, the following changes were made:

— definition of the protection zone;

— new combination of interoperable knee pads with interoperable garments (EN 14404-4);

— a bend test for interoperable knee pad was introduced;

— normative references were updated, further normative references are included;

— the cleaning of garments was taken into account;

— an uneven test surface and test was introduced;

— no more "UNISIZE" size; adjustment of size designation;

— additional markings were added.

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Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.

According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland,
Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and the United
Kingdom.

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Introduction

Kneeling is a frequently occurring working position, but one which is problematic from an occupational
health viewpoint. Without knee protectors, workers can suffer immediate injuries from hard surfaces and
small stones and similar objects lying on the surfaces. However, no knee protector can ensure that
workers will not suffer medical complications if they are required to kneel for long periods.
It is important that knee protectors do not compromise venous drainage in the leg while kneeling or
standing up. Therefore, it is important that it is easy for workers to change position and to stand up to re-
establish a normal blood circulation at frequent intervals while wearing knee protectors.
Work in a kneeling position involves the risk of chronic diseases such as prepatellar bursitis and cartilage
injuries caused by continuous pressure on the knees. Knee protection is therefore recommended for all
work in the kneeling position. The protection should distribute forces evenly and prevent small hard
objects on the ground causing injuries. Many workers have pre-existing damage to their knees,
particularly to their cartilages from sports injuries and from previous work. These injuries will be made
worse by further kneeling. Wearing knee protectors cannot correct existing damage but should slow
down further damaging effects.
Work in a kneeling position can expose the skin of the shins, knees and thighs to toxic and corrosive
materials normally kept off the body while walking and standing by waterproof or water-resistant
footwear. Knee protectors and trousers for use with such wet materials and particularly wet cement,
should take this into account and provide adequate protection.
For working in a kneeling position, four types of knee protectors exist:
— wearable knee protectors (type 1),

— knee pads in combination with garments (type 2),

— knee mats (type 3), and

— kneeling systems (type 4).

Interoperable knee pads as removable protectors can be sold on their own. In these cases, the attention
should be given to the Guidelines of the PPE Regulation application (April 2018): "In case removable
protectors are placed on the market, they are required to be certified as PPE on their own, as these must
fulfil all the applicable requirements of the PPE Regulation (EU declaration of conformity, CE Marking, etc.)".
This document has been drafted to cover this situation as well.

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1 Scope
This document specifies requirements for interoperable knee pads to use in garments and for garments
to use with interoperable knee pads and defines performance levels for use when working in a kneeling
position in order to reduce injuries to the knees caused by continuous pressure and penetration.
Requirements for the marking of the interoperable knee pad and the information to be supplied by the
manufacturer are given. Where protection against additional hazards is claimed, performance
requirements from other standards are applicable.
This document does not apply to knee protectors that are medical devices or are intended for sports and
motorcycles.
In this document requirements are given for a combination of a garment with a fixed sized knee pad
pocket and fixed sized knee pad (interoperable pad).
A specific combination of an individual pad and accordingly designed garment is described in EN 14404-3
and is excluded from this part.

2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 14404-1:2024, Personal protective equipment - Knee protectors for work in the kneeling position - Part
1: Test methods

EN ISO 13688:2013, Protective clothing - General requirements (ISO 13688:2013)

EN ISO 8559-2:2020, Size designation of clothes - Part 2: Primary and secondary dimension indicators (ISO
8559-2:2017)

3 Terms and definitions

For the purpose of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp/

— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/

3.1
knee protector (type 2)
combination of a garment with knee pockets or other means of attachment and pads forming the knee
protection

3.2
interoperable knee protector to use in garments (type 2)
combination of a garment with a fixed sized knee pad pocket and fixed sized knee pad (interoperable
pad)

3.3
individual combination of knee pads and garments (type 2)
specific combination of an individual pad and an accordingly designed garment

Note 1 to entry: Specifications are contained in EN 14404-3:2024.

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3.4
interoperable knee pad
fixed sized piece of foam plastic or other materials able to be exchanged with another piece of the same
characteristics when positioned in the same interoperable (knee) pocket

3.5
restraint, interoperable knee pad
part of the knee protector which keeps the interoperable knee pad in the required position to protect the
knee

Note 1 to entry: The interoperable knee pads are inserted in a fixed sized knee pocket on the garment.

3.6
zone of protection
area of the interoperable knee pad that is intended to provide the user with protection of patellar and
infrapatellar areas against continuous pressure and penetration

3.7
interoperable pocket
fixed sized knee pocket in which an interoperable knee pad can be inserted

3.8
garment with interoperable pockets
garment with interoperable pockets intended for placement of interoperable knee pads

Note 1 to entry: According to EN ISO 13688, this refers to protective clothing where garments, including body
protectors, includes or replaces personal garments and is intended as protection against one or more hazards.
Trousers with knee pockets (here for interoperable knee pad) are thus regarded as PPE.

4 Performance levels of knee protectors

The performance level of knee protectors is only specified by the penetration resistance and the force
distribution.
4 performance levels are specified. The tests for the performance levels are described in 4.4 and 4.5 of
EN 14404-1:2024.
— Level 0: knee protectors providing no protection against penetration and with a force distribution
less than 30 N when tested on flat even surface.

— Level 1: knee protectors providing protection against penetration at a force of at least 100 N and
with a force distribution less than 30 N when tested on flat even surface.

— Level 1U: knee protectors providing protection against penetration at a force of at least 100 N and a
force distribution less than 30 N when tested on uneven surface.

— Level 2: knee protectors providing protection against penetration at a force of at least 250 N and
with a force distribution less than 30 N when tested on uneven surface.

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5 Requirements
5.1 Interoperable knee pad
5.1.1 Summary of the requirements for interoperable knee pad

The summary of the requirements and the tests applicable are given in Table 1.
Table 1 — Summary of requirements for the interoperable knee pads and the tests applicable

Clause Level Clauses describing the tests

Subject
number 0 1 1U 2 applicable

5.1.2 General requirements X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.1 and 4.2

X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.1
5.1.2 Innocuousness
EN ISO 13688:2013, 4.2
5.1.3 Products for testing X X X X 5.1.3
Orientation of the interoperable knee X X X X
5.1.4.1 pad 5.1.4.1
Vertical alignment
Orientation of the interoperable knee X X X X
5.1.4.2 pad 5.1.4.2
Knee, right/left
X X X X 5.1.5.1
Dimensions of the interoperable
5.1.5.1 EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.2, 4.3.3 and
knee pad
4.3.4
Penetration resistance n.a. X X X
5.1.5.2 EN 14404-1:2024, 4.4
(Performance levels 1, 1U and 2)
5.1.5.3.1 Force distribution on an even surface X X n.a. n.a. EN 14404-1:2024, 4.5.2.1
Force distribution on an uneven n.a. n.a. X X
5.1.5.3.2 EN 14404-1:2024, 4.5.2.2
surface
5.1.5.4 Peak transmitted force X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.6.2
5.1.5.5 Bend test X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.9
Comfort during use on an even X X n.a. n.a.
5.1.6 EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3
surface
Comfort during use on an uneven n.a. n.a. X X
5.1.6 EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3
surface
6.1 General Marking X X X X 6.1
6.2.1 Specific Marking X X X X 6.2.1
7.1 Manufacturer information X X X X 7.1

n.a.: non-applicable

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5.1.2 General requirements for interoperable knee pad

Interoperable pads shall be safe to use and fit for their intended application specified by the
manufacturer.
They shall be designed and manufactured to provide knee protection when used according to the
information supplied by the manufacturer, without endangering the user.
There shall not be hard or sharp edges, seams, buckles or other items on the inner surfaces (especially
within the zone of protection) of the products that could harm the user during normal use. Visual and
tactile examination shall be made according EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.1.
Interoperable pads shall meet the innocuousness requirements of EN ISO 13688:2013, 4.2. Construction
materials and incorporated substances shall not harm those being in or coming into contact with them.
5.1.3 Products for testing

The manufacturer shall submit complete and ready-to-use 8 pairs of interoperable knee pad for testing.
The manufacturer shall provide the documents and data required for the testing.
5.1.4 Orientation of the interoperable knee pad

5.1.4.1 Vertical alignment

The marking below (Figure 1) shall be used on the side facing the knee and pointing upwards.

Figure 1 — Graphical symbol – Indication for vertical alignment

5.1.4.2 Knee right, left

When a differentiation is necessary to indicate the side of the body (left/ right) the following marking
(Figure 2 and Figure 3) shall be used respectively for the left knee and for the right knee.

Figure 2 — Graphical symbol –Marking of left knee side at which the interoperable knee pad is
to be worn

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Figure 3 — Graphical symbol –Marking of right knee side at which the interoperable knee pad is
to be worn

5.1.5 Specific requirements for the interoperable knee pad

5.1.5.1 Dimensions of the interoperable knee pad

The length and width of the interoperable knee pad coincide with the dimension of the zone of protection.
The dimensions of the interoperable knee pad shall be as follows:
l1 - Length: 240 mm ± 10 mm
l2 - Width: 145 mm ± 5 mm
The shape of the zone of protection of interoperable knee pad is shown in Figure 4.
The length and the width have to determine as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.2.
In addition to the previous dimensions the thickness of the interoperable knee pad shall be:
20 mm ± 4 mm.
The thickness has to be determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.4.
If the pad is preshaped or molded, the fitting test according to EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.3 shall be done with
the test pocket and the interoperable knee pad has to fit into the test pocket.
Furthermore, the requirements in accordance with Table 2 apply.
Table 2 —Dimensions of the radius of curvature

Maximum values for the radius of curvature

Knee protector type of corners of zones of protection [mm]
Proximal, r1 Distal, r2
interoperable knee pad 25 25

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Key
l1 length of the zone of protection
l2 width of the zone of protection
r1 radius of curvature of a proximal (upper) corner of the zone of protection
r2 radius of curvature of a distal (lower) corner of the zone of protection

Figure 4 — Shape of the zone of protection of interoperable knee pad

5.1.5.2 Penetration resistance

The interoperable knee pad of performance level 1 and 1U shall resist penetration at a force of at least
100 N, and interoperable knee pad of performance level 2 shall resist penetration at a force of at least
250 N, when determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.4. One interoperable knee pad shall be
tested. At each of the five test sites the minimum value has to be reached.
5.1.5.3 Force distribution

5.1.5.3.1 Force distribution on an even surface

When determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.5.2.1, at each transducer the calculated mean value
for the force shall be ≤ 30 N. The highest value of a single recorded force shall be ≤ 35 N.
5.1.5.3.2 Force distribution on an uneven surface

When determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.5.2.2, at each transducer the calculated mean value
for the force shall be ≤ 30 N. The highest value of a single recorded force shall be ≤ 35 N.
5.1.5.4 Peak transmitted force

The peak transmitted forces in test impacts shall not exceed the values in Table 3, when determined as
described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.6.2.

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Table 3 — lmpact performance requirements

Mean of all peak Highest value of a

Impact energy transmitted force single peak
measurements transmitted force
J kN kN
5 3 4

5.1.5.5 Bend test

One interoperable knee pad shall be tested. The force shall not exceed 10 N, when determined as
described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.9.
5.1.6 Ergonomic requirements

Interoperable knee pad shall be found ergonomically acceptable after knee tests have been conducted,
when determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3.
5.2 Garments
5.2.1 Summary of the requirements for garment to use with interoperable knee pads

The summary of the requirements and the tests applicable are given in Table 4.
Table 4 — Summary of requirements for the garments to use with interoperable knee pads and
the tests applicable

Level Clauses describing the

Clause number Subject
0 1 1U 2 tests applicable

EN ISO 13688:2013, 5.2

5.2.2 General requirements for garment X X X X
and 5.3
5.2.3 Products for testing X X X X 5.2.3
5.2.4.1 Size designation of garment X X X X 5.2.4.1
Dimension of the interoperable
5.2.4.2 X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.5
pocket
5.2.4.3.1 General requirements for restraint X X X X 5.2.4.2
5.2.4.3.2 Restraint in pockets X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.7.2.2
5.2.5 Water resistance X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.8.2.3
5.2.6 Ergonomic requirements X X X X EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3
6.1 General Marking X X X X 6.1
6.2.2 Specific Marking X X X X 6.2.2
7.2 Manufacturer information X X X X 7.2

5.2.2 General requirements for garment to use with interoperable kneepads

Garment shall fulfil the requirements of EN ISO 13688:2013, 4.2, 4.4, 5.2 and 5.3.

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5.2.3 Products for testing

Within the purpose of ergonomic testing according to EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3, the garment
manufacturer shall provide one garment suitable for each test person and also suitable for the
interoperable knee pad described in clause 5.1. The required tests will be carried out on the provided
garments.
The manufacturer shall provide the documents and data required for the testing.
5.2.4 Specific requirements for the garments to use with interoperable knee pads

5.2.4.1 Size designation of garment

The size system used by the manufacturer shall be based on the waist girth and the inside leg length
(ranges for which the garment has been designed, expressed in cm) and expressed as in
EN ISO 8559-2:2020.
5.2.4.2 Dimensions of the interoperable pocket

To check the volume of the interoperable pockets, the fitting test according to EN 14404-1:2024, 4.3.5
shall be done with the test knee pad which has to fit into interoperable pockets of one garment.
5.2.4.3 Restraint

5.2.4.3.1 General

Interoperable knee pad shall remain in their intended position when working in a kneeling position when
tested according to EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3.
The manufacturer shall give details in the information supplied of how adequate positioning and/or
restraint of the knee protection knee pad can be achieved.
5.2.4.3.2 Interoperable Pocket

The knee pocket shall be positioned so that the knee is within the defined zone of protection in the
kneeling working position when tested according to EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3.
NOTE Information of the knee protection pocket is given in Annex C.

Any interoperable knee pad has to fit into the interoperable pocket. Due to various pocket constructions,
the dimensions of the interoperable pocket are tested according EN 14404-1:2024, 4.7.2.2.
Any interoperable knee pads shall not be removed by a force of 100 N, when determined as described in
EN 14404-1:2024, 4.7.2.2.
5.2.5 Optional requirement - Water resistance

When water resistance is claimed, the filter paper shall remain dry, when determined as described in
EN 14404-1:2024, 4.8.2.3.
The water resistance for garment with interoperable pocket shall be given by garment material(s) in
contact with wetted ground.
5.2.6 Ergonomic requirements

Garment with interoperable pockets shall be found ergonomically acceptable after knee tests have been
conducted, when determined as described in EN 14404-1:2024, 4.10.3.

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6 Marking
6.1 General

Each interoperable knee pad and each garment with interoperable pockets shall be marked.
The marking shall be:
— on the product itself or on labels attached to the product;

— affixed so as to be visible and legible.

The marking and the graphical symbols should be large enough to convey immediate understanding and
to allow the use of readily legible numbers.
6.2 Specific
6.2.1 Interoperable knee pad

The marking shall include the following information:

a) Name, trademark or other means of identification of the manufacturer and the address;

b) Designation of the product type, commercial name or code;

c) Dimensions of the knee pad according to 5.1.5.1;

d) Marking using Figure 5 (left: level 0, right: other levels), showing the use of the combination of
garment and knee pad;

a) Marking for level 0 b) Marking for levels 1, 1U and 2

Figure 5 —Markings (left: level 0, right: other levels)

X in Figure 5 indicates the level of performance (1, 1U or 2) that shall be positioned anywhere next
to the graphical symbol for the protection against mechanical hazards (Graphical symbol
ISO 7000-2490);
e) Reference to this standard, EN 14404-4:2024;

f) If the manufacturer intends to indicate on the marking that the manufacturer’s instructions have to
be consulted using a graphical symbol, then Figure 6 shall be used.

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Figure 6 — Graphical symbol ISO 7000 – 1641 for operator’s manual; operating instructions

g) A marking of the vertical alignment (Figure 1);

h) When a differentiation is necessary to indicate the side of the body (left/right) the additional marking
(Figure 2 and Figure 3) shall be used.

6.2.2 Garment

The marking shall include the following information:

a) Name, trademark or other means of identification of the manufacturer and the address;

b) Designation of the product type, commercial name or code;

c) Size designation according to 5.2.4.1;

d) Marking using Figure 7, showing the use of the combination of garment and knee pad;

Figure 7 — Marking

e) Reference to product standard, EN 14404-4:2024;

f) If the manufacturer intends to indicate on the marking that the manufacturer’s instructions have to
be consulted using a graphical symbol, then Figure 8 shall be used;

Figure 8 — Graphical symbol ISO 7000 – 1641 for operator’s manual; operating instructions

g) Care instructions.

15
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

7 Information to be supplied by the manufacturer

7.1 Interoperable knee pad

The interoperable knee pad shall be supplied with information and instructions for fitting and use that
will promote their safe and effective use. The information shall contain at least the following:
a) Identification of the product (e.g. product type, commercial name or code);

b) Name and full address of the manufacturer;

c) Reference number of this document and any others applicable with the year(s) of publication;

d) How to select knee protectors of the correct level of performance. An explanation of the levels of
performance of knee protectors available under this standard;

e) An explanation of the mark designating the inner (or outer) surface and the orientation of the
interoperable knee pad;

f) An indication that the interoperable knee pad shall be used according to this standard only with
tested garments as per EN 14404-4:2024;

g) A warning about any changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature, that would
significantly reduce the performance of the knee protector;

h) A warning that no knee protector can offer full protection against injuries, and details of the problems
that can occur (further information can be found in Annex A);

i) A warning about any contamination, alteration or damage to the knee protector, or misuse that would
dangerously reduce the performance of the knee protector;

j) Instructions concerning inspection of the interoperable knee pad, and how to decide that it should be
thrown away because it may no longer provide adequate protection;

k) The type of use for which the interoperable knee pad is intended;

l) The hazards and ageing specific to kneeling work against which protection is not given (this
information should be emphasized by the use of bold type);

m) Care instructions;

n) Insofar as replacement parts are available, the corresponding information for correct replacement
shall be provided. An indication shall be provided that only original replacement parts may be used.

7.2 Garment

Garment with interoperable pockets shall be supplied with information and instructions for fitting and
use that will promote their safe and effective use. The information shall contain at least the following:
a) Name, trademark or other means of identification of the manufacturer and the address;

b) Designation of the product type, commercial name or code;

c) Reference number of this document and any others applicable with the year(s) of publication;

16
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

d) A warning that only the combination of the described garment with interoperable pockets and
interoperable knee pads is proved;
e) How to select knee protectors of the correct level of performance. An explanation of the performance
levels of interoperable knee pad available according to this standard;
f) There shall be an indication that only the performance level of the inserted interoperable knee pad
is applicable;
g) If the manufacturer intends to indicate on the marking that the manufacturer’s instructions have to
be consulted using a graphical symbol, then Figure 8 shall be used;
h) A statement if the garment at the knee area is water resistant;
i) Information concerning additional protection provided by the garment if it complies with additional
standards relating for example to fire resistance or chemical resistance;
j) How the interoperable knee pad is to be inserted in the interoperable pocket of the garment;
k) Instructions about wearing other PPE to obtain the protection desired;
l) A warning that no knee protector can offer full protection against injuries, and details of the problems
that can occur (further information can be found in Annex A);
m) A warning about any contamination, alteration or damage to the garment, or misuse that would
dangerously reduce the performance of the protector;
n) A warning that only the interoperable knee pad of EN 14404-4 covers the penetration risks;
o) Instructions concerning inspection of the garment, and how to decide that it should be thrown away
because it may no longer provide adequate protection;
p) The hazards specific to kneeling work against which protection is not given (this information should
be emphasized by the use of bold type);
q) Care instructions;
r) Insofar as replacement parts are available, the corresponding data for correct replacement shall be
provided. An indication shall be provided that only original replacement parts may be used.

17
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Annex A
(informative)

Rationale

A.1 Protection zone

A.1.1 General

This Annex covers the protection zone for all types of knee protectors.
The determination of the dimensions of the “protection zone” is based on the dimensions of the human
body zones to be protected: prepatellar and infrapatellar zones (Figure A.1).
Medical studies related to the patella dimensions show dimensions and/or dimension ratios which are
useful to determine the protection zone.
These dimensions and/or dimension ratios are:
— Patella width range: 44 mm to 64 mm

— Patella width-to-height ratio of 1,3

— Patella tendon length /patella length ratio range: 0,8 to 1,2

Key
1 patella
2 prepatellar zone
3 infrapatellar zone

Figure A.1 — Human knee

A.1.2 Minimum width of the protection zone

A.1.2.1 Small size (patella widths 44 mm to 54 mm)

The protection zone in its width was specified to cover at least the patella width and take into
consideration a safety factor due to the placement and displacement of the protection.

A patella width of 51 mm (≈ 95 % of 54 mm) has been taken as reference, associated to a safety factor of
1,7, and then the minimum width of the protection zone results in 85 mm (rounded to the nearest 5 mm).

18
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

A.1.2.2 Large size (patella widths 55 mm to 64 mm)

The protection zone in its width was specified to cover at least the patella width and take into
consideration a safety factor due to the placement and displacement of the protection.

A patella width of 60 mm (≈ 95 % of 64 mm) has been taken as reference, associated to a safety factor of
1,7, and then the minimum width of the protection zone results in 100 mm (rounded to the nearest
5 mm).

A.1.3 Minimum length of the protection zone

A.1.3.1 Small size

The protection zone in its length was specified to cover at least half of the patella length and the patella
tendon length and take into consideration a safety factor due to the placement and displacement of the
protection (displacement in length lower than in width).
A patella length of 65 mm (≈ 1,3 × 51 mm, rounded to the nearest 5 mm) and a patella tendon length of
80 mm (≈ 1,2 × 65 mm, rounded to the nearest 5 mm) have been taken as references to estimate the
length to protect of 115 mm (≈ 65 mm/2 + 80 mm, rounded to the nearest 5 mm). Associated to a safety
factor of 1,15, the calculation leads to the specification of 130 mm (rounded to the nearest 5 mm) for the
minimum length of the protection zone.
A.1.3.2 Large size

The protection zone in its length was specified to cover at least half of the patella length and the patella
tendon length and take into consideration a safety factor due to the placement and displacement of the
protection (displacement in length lower than in width).
A patella length of 80 mm (≈ 1,3 × 60 mm, rounded at the nearest 5 mm) and a patella tendon length of
100 mm (≈ 1,2 × 80 mm, rounded to the nearest 5 mm) have been taken as references to estimate the
length to protect of 140 mm (≈ 80 mm/2 + 100 mm). Associated to a safety factor of 1,15, the calculation
leads to the specification of 160 mm (rounded to the nearest 5 mm) for the minimum length of the
protection zone.
A.1.4 Extended protection zone

A.1.4.1 General

When the protection is placed in a pocket, an additional factor was taken into consideration due to the
needed allowance of the displacement of the protection inside the pocket.
This is due to the different leg lengths and the associated individual knee positions of the users.
In case of pocket differences in width a (displacement) factor in width of the protection zone of 1,2 is
recommended.
For the interoperable knee pad a factor in width of the protection zone of 1,4 is recommended, because
there are no ergonomic tests for the combination of interoperable knee pad and garment.
A.1.4.2 Small size

The minimum width of the extended protection zone was specified to be 100 mm (85 mm × 1,2) (rounded
to the nearest 10 mm).
A (displacement) factor in length of 1,4 has been found suitable, and then minimum length of the
extended protection zone results in 180 mm (rounded to the nearest 10 mm).

19
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

A.1.4.3 Large size

The minimum width of the extended protection zone was specified to be 120 mm (100 mm × 1,2).
A (displacement) factor in length of 1,4 has been found suitable, and then minimum length of the
extended protection zone results in 230 mm (160 mm × 1,4) (rounded to the nearest higher 10 mm).
A.1.4.4 Interoperable knee pad

The minimum width of the extended protection zone was specified to be 140 mm (100 mm × 1,4)
(rounded to the nearest 10 mm).
A (displacement) factor in length of 1,4 has been found suitable, and then minimum length of the
extended protection zone results in 230 mm (160 mm × 1,4) (rounded to the nearest higher 10 mm).
A.1.5 Extended protection zone for knee mats

The length 1 × 230 mm (following A.1.4) plus a safety factor of 10 mm (for the distance of an offset knee
position) results in 240 mm.
The width 2 × 100 mm (following A.1.2) plus the distance between the knees in the kneeling position
1 × 200 mm (supposition) results in 400 mm.

20
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Annex B
(informative)

Information on the problems of using knee protectors for work in the

kneeling position

B.1 Introduction
The kneeling position is not natural for humans, and the anatomy of the knee is not appropriate for the
long-term loads imposed during kneeling. However, the kneeling position can be very convenient for
some tasks. During them discomfort and injury can occur, hence workers wish to wear knee protectors
which are soft on the inside.
Knee protection provided by something soft to kneel on does not prevent all the problems of pressure
and discomfort, and long-term skin changes can occur. Adoption of a kneeling position can also always
be expected to compromise venous drainage from the lower leg. Inactivity of the calf muscles limits the
pressure driving venous blood up the leg and the bent knee inevitably results in compression of popliteal
veins and an increase in resistance to blood flow through them. Sitting without movement with the knee
bent as in an aircraft is equally well known to lead to circulatory problems such as ankle oedema and
deep vein thrombosis even without pressure on the knee.

B.2 Advice to users

The following advice can be given to users of knee protectors:
a) ensure your knee protectors conform to this document and are in good condition;

b) kneel upright, do not sit on your heels;

c) move around, do not stay still;

d) do not kneel for longer than an hour with any protectors without getting up and walking around;

e) walk around for at least 10 min after kneeling for one hour;

f) seek medical advice if your knees or calves swell during kneeling work.

21
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Annex C
(informative)

Information for Type 2 knee protector for arrangement of the knee

protection pocket

C.1 Introduction
Garments and knee pad form knee protector Type 2. The position of the knee pad pocket on the garments
is of special importance here. The pocket shall be positioned so that the knee is within the defined zone
of protection in the kneeling working position.

C.2 Position
In the case of trousers, the position of the zone of protection can be attained by the corresponding
arrangement of the pocket centre in relation to the inside leg length (±5 %). The inside leg length
measurement refers to long trousers (1/1). See Figure C.1.

Figure C.1 — Position of the pocket on the long trouser leg – Example

22
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Annex D
(informative)

Assessment of the combination of interoperable knee pad and garment with

interoperable pockets

Table D.1 — Assessment of the combination of the interoperable knee pad and garment with
interoperable pockets

Influence of Influence
the of the Comment on the Comment on the
Properties
interoperable garment checking assessment
knee pad material(s)
Due to the chemical
nature of the materials, Based on separate test
Innocuousness Important Important
materials are tested reports
separately
Cleansing of the Based on test report on
negligible Important Test only the garments
garments garments
Orientation of the
Based on inspection
interoperable knee Visual inspection on
Important negligible report on interoperable
pad interoperable knee pad
knee pads
Vertical alignment
Orientation of the
Based on inspection
interoperable knee Visual inspection on
Important negligible report on interoperable
pad interoperable knee pad
knee pads
Knee, right/left
Analysis of the size
Based on test report on
Size designation negligible Important measurement tables of
garment
the garments
Due to the nature of the
materials,
interoperable knee Based on separate test
Dimensions Important Important
pads and garment reports
trousers are measured
separately
Penetration
resistance Test only the Based on test report on
Important negligible
(Performance levels interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
1, 1U and 2)
Force distribution Test only the Based on test report on
Important negligible
on an even surface interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
Force distribution
Test only the Based on test report on
on an uneven Important negligible
interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
surface

23
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Influence of Influence
the of the Comment on the Comment on the
Properties
interoperable garment checking assessment
knee pad material(s)
Peak transmitted Test only the Based on test report on
Important negligible
force interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
General
Test only the Based on test report on
requirements for Important negligible
interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
restraint
Restraint of Combination of
interoperable knee interoperable knee pad Based on test reports
Important Important
pad in knee pockets and garment trouser on the combination
on garments are checked conjointly
Test only the Based on test report on
Bending Important negligible
interoperable knee pad interoperable knee pad
Test only the garment
water Based on test report on
negligible Important material(s) in contact
resistance garments
with the wetted ground

24
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Annex ZA
(informative)

Relationship between this European Standard and the essential

requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 of the European Parliament and
of the Council of 9 March 2016 on personal protective equipment aimed to
be covered

This European Standard has been prepared under a Commission’s standardization request M/571 to
provide one voluntary means of conforming to essential requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 of
the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on personal protective equipment.
Once this standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union under that Regulation (EU)
2016/425, compliance with the normative clauses of this standard given in Table ZA.1 confers, within the
limits of the scope of this standard, a presumption of conformity with the corresponding essential
requirements of that Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and associated EFTA regulations.
Table ZA.1 — Correspondence between this European Standard and Regulation (EU) 2016/425

Essential Requirements of Regulation Clause(s)/subclause(s) Remarks/Notes

(EU) 2016/425 of this EN
1.1.1 Ergonomics 5.1.6,
5.2.6
1.1.2.1 Optimum level of protection not covered
1.1.2.2 Classes of protection appropriate 4
to different levels of risk
1.2.1.1 Suitable constituent materials 5.1.2,
5.2.2
1.2.1.2 Satisfactory surface condition of 5.1.2,
all PPE parts in contact with the user 5.2.2
1.2.1.3 Maximum permissible user Not covered
impediment
1.3.1 Adaptation of PPE to user 5.1.5.1,
morphology 5.2.4.1
1.3.2 Lightness and strength Not covered
1.3.3 Compatibility of different types Not applicable
of PPE intended for simultaneous
use
1.3.4 Protective clothing containing 5.2.3
removable protectors
1.4 Manufacturer's instructions and 7
information
2.1 PPE incorporating adjustment Not applicable
systems

25
BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Essential Requirements of Regulation Clause(s)/subclause(s) Remarks/Notes

(EU) 2016/425 of this EN
2.4 PPE subject to ageing 7
2.12 PPE bearing one or more 6
identification markings or indicators
directly or indirectly relating to health
and safety
3.1.1 Impact caused by falling or 5.1.5.4
ejected objects and collisions of parts of
the body with an obstacle
3.2 Protection against static 5.1.5.3,
compression of a part of the body 5.1.5.3.1,
5.1.5.3.2
3.3 Protection against mechanical 5.1.5.2
injuries

WARNING 1 — Presumption of conformity stays valid only as long as a reference to this European
Standard is maintained in the list published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Users of this
standard should consult frequently the latest list published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

WARNING 2 — Other Union legislation may be applicable to the product(s) falling within the scope of
this standard.

26
 BS EN 14404‑4:2024
EN 14404-4:2024 (E)

Bibliography

EN 14404-3:2024, Personal protective equipment - Knee protectors for work in the kneeling position
- Part 3: Requirements for the individual combination of knee pads and garments (type 2)

EN ISO 3758, Textiles - Care labelling code using symbols (ISO 3758)

ISO 7000, Graphical symbols for use on equipment - Registered symbols

27
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