EN 14404
Protection for work in a kneeling postion
This standard specifies requirements for knee protectors designed to reduce the risk of injuries when working in a kneeling position. It sets out the test methods and performance levels for various types of knee protection - whether integrated into garments, used as separate pads, or applied as mats and systems. Compliant knee protection helps prevent both immediate and long-term strain or injury caused by mechanical pressure on the knees.
EN 14404-certified knee protectors are intended for workplaces and tasks that involve frequent or extended kneeling, such as flooring, construction, plumbing, tiling, electrical installations, or assembly work.
The standard specifically applies to occupational knee protection used in industrial and professional settings.
About the EN 14404:2024 standard
EN 14404:2024 is the current European standard specifying the requirements, test methods and performance levels for personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects the knees during work in kneeling positions. It replaces the previous EN 14404:2004 + A1:2010 version and introduces a more detailed structure divided into six distinct parts, each addressing a specific type of knee protection.
The six parts of EN 14404:2024 are:
- EN 14404-1:2024: Test methods for knee protectors.
- EN 14404-2:2024: Requirements for wearable knee protectors (Type 1).
- EN 14404-3:2024: Requirements for individual combinations of kneepads and garments (Type 2).
- EN 14404-4:2024: Requirements for interoperable combinations of kneepads and garments (Type 2).
- EN 14404-5:2024: Requirements for knee mats (Type 3).
- EN 14404-6:2024: Requirements for kneeling systems (Type 4).
Performance requirements under EN 14404
The performance of a knee protector is determined by its resistance to puncture and its ability to distribute pressure effectively.
1. Types of knee protection
The EN 14404:2024 standard defines four types of knee protectors, depending on how they are used and integrated into workwear.
| Type | Description | Configuration / Use |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | Wearable knee protectors | Worn independently from clothing; attached directly to the body, typically with straps. |
| Type 2 | Integrated or combined systems | Kneepads designed to fit into or be used together with certified garments. Can be: - Individual combinations - Interoperable combinations |
| Type 3 | Knee mats | Separate mats placed on the floor to kneel on during work. |
| Type 4 | Kneeling systems | Complete kneeling supports or mobile platforms offering extended cushioning and movement. |
2. Performance levels of knee protectors in EN 14404:2024
The EN 14404:2024 standard defines four performance levels based on a protector’s resistance to penetration and its ability to distribute pressure. Higher levels indicate greater protection against mechanical stress and sharp or uneven surfaces.
| Performance level | Penetration resistance | Force distribution | Test surface | Protection offered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 0 | No protection | < 30 N | Flat surface | No resistance to penetration; minimal pressure reduction. |
| Level 1 | ≥ 100 N | < 30 N | Flat surface | Basic protection against mechanical stress on smooth floors. |
| Level 1U | ≥ 100 N | < 30 N | Uneven surface | Protection suitable for irregular or rough surfaces. |
| Level 2 | ≥ 250 N | < 30 N | Uneven surface | Highest level of protection against sharp or uneven surfaces. |
