EN 14404 Standardized Workwear: Knee Pads and Knee Protection
The EN 14404 standard concerns workwear with knee protection and specifies the requirements for the design, performance, and marking of professional knee pads. These personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential for people who work frequently on their knees, reducing the risk of injury and providing optimal comfort during prolonged kneeling.
The 4 types of knee protection according to the EN 14404 standard
- Type 1: Knee pads independent of the garment, fastened around the leg. Ideal for trades such as masonry, plumbing, or tiling that require flexibility in protection.
- Type 2: Plastic foam inserted into pockets integrated into the work trousers. This is the most common format for professional trousers with knee pad pockets.
- Type 3: Protective equipment placed on the ground during the user's movements, designed for one or both knees at a time. Convenient for mobile workers.
- Type 4: Innovative accessories with additional functions (e.g., frame to assist with standing up or kneeling), for enhanced ergonomics and MSD prevention.
The 3 protection levels of the EN 14404 standard
- Level 0: No protection against the penetration of sharp objects.
- Level 1: Suitable for flat and irregular surfaces, protects against the penetration of objects smaller than 1 cm, with resistance to a force of 100 N. Ideal for professionals in the construction, public works, or industrial sector.
- Level 2: Designed for extreme conditions or difficult terrains (e.g. mines, quarries), protects against the penetration of objects > 1 cm, resistance to a force of 250 N. Recommended for intensive work or abrasive environments.
What is the purpose of the EN 14404 standard? The benefits for professionals
The EN 14404 standard ensures that the "knee pad pocket + knee pad" set has been tested and provides effective knee protection.Attention, the indicated performance is only valid with the correct knee pad adapted to the garment!
Wearing a certified ergonomic knee pad EN 14404 is essential to prevent knee bursitis, injuries caused by impacts, repeated friction on hard or uneven surfaces, as well as the onset of occupational diseases such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Examples of exposed professions: tilers, plumbers, electricians, installers, mechanics, construction workers, industrial or agricultural sector workers… Any job requiring periods spent kneeling on hard surfaces.
Technical requirements and user comfort
The EN 14404 standard requires:
- Minimum values for the dimensions of the protection zones
- Mechanical requirements (pressure resistance, force dispersion, etc.)
- Comfort criteria (knee pad stability, no hindrance to venous drainage)
- The obligation of CE marking and the compatibility of knee pads and garments
It is crucial that the knee pad stays securely in place during movement and does not impede blood circulation. It is also important that workers can regularly change their position to limit the onset of chronic pain or medical complications.
Why choose EN 14404 clothing and knee pads?
Choosing work trousers with EN 14404 certified knee pads means opting for safety, comfort, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Professional knee pads and knee protection clothing improve the prevention of workplace accidents, employee health, and the durability of PPE equipment.
In summary:
The EN 14404 standard is intended for all professionals exposed to risks during prolonged work on their knees. To ensure optimal protection, it is essential to select EN 14404 certified workwear and knee pads that are suited to your needs and your work environment.
