EN 1985:1998

• Abstract:

  This standard specfies requirements and test methods for Walking Aids manipulated by one arm (Walking Aids used singly or in pairs, each manipulated by one arm, possibly in combination with the upper body) and Walking Aids manpulated by both arms (Walking Aids used singly, manipulated by both arms, possibly in combination with the upper body), as covered by the subclasses 1203 and 1206 in EN ISO 9999:1998. This standard does not apply to walking aids specially designed or with adaptations for specific disabled persons. NOTE: Appropriate parts of this standard may be applied to the above products and other walking aids outside this scope.

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 17-Nov-1998
• Withdrawal Date: 30-May-1999
• ICS: 11.180 - Aids for disabled or handicapped persons
• Technical Committee: CEN/TC 293 - Technical aids for disabled persons
• Drafting Committee: CEN/TC 293/WG 1 - Walking aids
• Current Stage: 9093 - Decision to confirm - Review Enquiry
• Start Date: 10-Mar-2026
• Completion Date: 17-Sep-2026
• Directive: Not Harmonized93/42/EEC - Medical devices
  OJ Ref: C, C 227, C 16 OJ Date: 18-Jan-2011
• Mandate: M/023 - Standardization mandate to CEN/CENELEC concerning the development of European standards relating to medical devices
• Ref Project: SIST EN 1985:2000 - Walking aids - General requirements and test methods

• Refers: EN ISO 9999:1998 - Technical aids for disabled persons - Classification (ISO 9999:1998)
• Effective Date: 28-Jan-2026
• Refers: EN 12182:1999 - Technical aids for disabled persons - General requirements and test methods
• Effective Date: 28-Jan-2026
• Refers: EN ISO 14971:2019 - Medical devices - Application of risk management to medical devices (ISO 14971:2019)
• Effective Date: 28-Jan-2026

Overview - EN 1985:1998 (Walking aids - General requirements and test methods)

EN 1985:1998 is a CEN standard that sets general requirements and test methods for walking aids. It covers walking aids manipulated by one arm (used singly or in pairs, possibly together with upper‑body support) and those manipulated by both arms (used singly, possibly with upper‑body support). The standard aligns with classifications in EN ISO 9999:1998 (subclasses 1203 and 1206). It does not apply to walking aids specially designed or adapted for particular disabled persons, although appropriate parts may be applied beyond the stated scope.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and classification: Defines which types of mobility aids (one‑arm and two‑arm devices) the standard applies to, referencing EN ISO 9999 product subclasses.
• General safety requirements: Sets expectations for user safety, structural integrity and basic ergonomics for walking aids and mobility aids.
• Performance and durability: Specifies test methods to evaluate mechanical performance, durability and continued safe operation under expected use.
• Stability and strength: Requires assessment of load‑bearing capacity and resistance to failure during normal use.
• Usability and dimensions: Covers aspects of device design that affect fit, handling and effective support for users.
• Exclusions and applicability notes: Clarifies that devices specially adapted for individual disabilities are out of scope, while noting that relevant clauses may be applied more widely.

(EN 1985:1998 describes test methods and requirements at a general level rather than product‑specific measurements; consult the full standard for precise procedures.)

Applications - who uses EN 1985:1998

• Manufacturers and product designers: To design and validate walking frames, canes, crutches and other mobility aids for general use.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies: To perform standardized tests and demonstrate compliance with CEN requirements.
• Procurement and healthcare buyers: To specify minimum safety and performance criteria when purchasing mobility aids.
• Regulators and conformity assessors: For market surveillance and ensuring products meet recognized European standards.
• Clinicians and rehabilitation specialists: To understand baseline safety/performance expectations for off‑the‑shelf walking aids.

Related standards

• EN ISO 9999:1998 - referenced classification system (subclasses 1203 and 1206).
• National adoptions (example: SIST EN 1985:2000) reflect local publication of the CEN text.

Keywords: EN 1985:1998, walking aids, walking frames, crutches, mobility aids, general requirements, test methods, CEN, EN ISO 9999, product safety.

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2000
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Walking aids - General requirements and test methods
Gehhilfen - Allgemeine Anforderungen und Prüfmethoden
Aides a la marche - Prescriptions générales et méthodes d'essai
Ta slovenski standar
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