SIST EN 13138-3:2015
(Main)Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn
This European Standard specifies safety requirements for design, sizing, materials, strength and in-water performance as well as provisions for marking and the information supplied by the manufacturer for swim seats. It also specifies the relevant test methods. This standard is not applicable to products covered by EN 13138-1 and -2.
This part of EN 13138 covers class A buoyancy devices in which children are seated. These devices are only intended for children aged up to 36 months with a body mass less than or equal to 18 kg.
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werden
Diese Europäische Norm legt sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen an Gestaltung, Größen, Werkstoff, Festig-keit und Verhalten im Wasser von Schwimmsitzen, die am Körper getragen werden, fest sowie Vorgaben für die Kennzeichnung und die Informationen, die vom Hersteller bereitgestellt werden. Sie legt zudem die ent-sprechenden Prüfverfahren fest. Diese Norm gilt nicht für Produkte, die durch EN 13138-1 und EN 13138-2 abgedeckt werden.
Diese Europäische Norm gilt für Auftriebshilfen der Klasse A, in die Kinder gesetzt werden. Diese Auftriebs-hilfen sind nur für Kinder bis zu einem Alter von 36 Monaten mit einem Körpergewicht weniger als oder gleich 18 kg vorgesehen.
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les sièges flottants devant être portés
La présente Norme européenne fixe les exigences de sécurité s’appliquant à la fabrication, aux performances, à la taille, au marquage et aux informations fournies par le fabricant des sièges flottants. Elle spécifie également les méthodes d’essai appropriées. La présente norme n’est pas applicable aux produits couverts par l’EN 13138-1 et -2.
La présente partie de l’EN 13138 couvre les dispositifs de classe A, qui sont des dispositifs flottants dans lequel les enfants sont assis. Ces dispositifs sont uniquement destinés aux enfants d’un âge inférieur ou égal à 36 mois et d’une masse corporelle inférieure ou égale à 18 kg.
Plavajoči pripomočki za učenje plavanja - 3. del: Varnostne zahteve in preskusne metode za plavajoče sedeže, ki se oblečejo
Ta evropski standard določa varnostne zahteve za zasnovo, velikost, materiale, moč in zmogljivost v vodi ter zahteve za označevanje in informacije o plavajočih sedežih, ki se oblečejo, ki jih zagotovi proizvajalec. Določa tudi ustrezne preskusne metode. Ta standard ne velja za izdelke, ki jih zajemata standarda EN 13138-1 in EN 13138-2.
Ta del standarda EN 13138 zajema plavajoče pripomočke razreda A, v katerih otroci sedijo. Ti pripomočki so namenjeni otrokom, mlajšim od 36 mesecev, s telesno težo 18 kg ali manj.
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werdenAides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les sièges flottants devant être portésBuoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn13.340.70SULSRPRþNLLifejackets, buoyancy aids and floating devicesICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 13138-3:2014SIST EN 13138-3:2015en,fr,de01-februar-2015SIST EN 13138-3:2015SLOVENSKI
STANDARDSIST EN 13138-3:20071DGRPHãþD
SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 13138-3
December 2014 ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Supersedes EN 13138-3:2007English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les sièges flottants devant être portés
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werden This European Standard was approved by CEN on 16 August 2014.
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, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre:
Avenue Marnix 17,
B-1000 Brussels © 2014 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Members. Ref. No. EN 13138-3:2014 ESIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 2 Contents Page Foreword .5 Introduction .6 1 Scope .8 2 Normative references .8 3 Terms and definitions .9 4 Classification . 10 4.1 General . 10 4.2 Categorization . 11 5 Safety requirements . 11 5.1 General . 11 5.2 Design . 12 5.2.1 Avoidance of similarities to aquatic toys . 12 5.2.2 Innocuousness . 12 5.2.3 Edges, corners and points . 12 5.2.4 Buckles, zippers and other fixings . 12 5.2.5 Small parts . 13 5.2.6 Valves and stoppers . 13 5.3 Sizing . 13 5.4 Materials . 13 5.4.1 Thread . 13 5.4.2 Resistance to puncturing . 14 5.4.3 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant material to water absorption . 14 5.4.4 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant materials to compression . 14 5.4.5 Migration of certain elements . 14 5.4.6 Resistance to chlorinated salt water . 14 5.4.7 Material used for markings . 14 5.4.8 Resistance of the markings to perspiration . 15 5.4.9 Adhesion of markings . 15 5.5 Strength . 15 5.5.1 Strength of entire seat . 15 5.5.2 Seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 15 5.6 In-water performance . 15 5.6.1 Residual buoyancy . 15 5.6.2 Fit and positioning . 15 5.6.3 In-water behaviour, static stability . 16 5.6.4 In-water behaviour, static stability, capsizing under extreme condition (option 1 to 3) . 16 5.6.5 Escape from the swim seat (body entrapment, leg / foot entanglement) . 16 5.6.6 In-water behaviour, static stability retention of function . 17 5.6.7 Swim seats with special seat designs . 17 6 Test methods . 17 6.1 Enhanced conditioning . 17 6.2 Test apparatus and procedure . 17 7 Warnings and markings . 18 7.1 General . 18 7.2 Warnings and markings on the product . 18 7.3 Information supplied by the manufacturer . 19 SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 3 7.4 Consumer information at the point of sale . 19 Annex A (normative)
Test manikins I to III . 21 A.1 Dimensions . 21 A.2 Specifications . 22 A.3 Density of components . 23 A.4 Centre of gravity . 23 A.4.1 Location . 23 A.4.2 Calibration on land (dry) . 23 A.4.3 Calibration in water (wet) . 24 A.4.4 Test manikins I . III, variant: upright sitting manikin . 24 Annex B (normative)
Test procedures for swim seats . 26 B.1 Fit and positioning . 26 B.1.1 General . 26 B.1.2 In-water behaviour, static stability in calm water . 26 B.1.2.1 Static stability of inflatable swim seats . 26 B.1.2.2 Static stability of swim seats made from inherent buoyant material, e.g. foam . 27 B.1.3 Efficiency of residual buoyancy and retention of function . 27 B.2 Self-righting test, options 1 to 3 . 28 B.2.1 General . 28 B.2.2 Escape test. 28 B.3 Strength of entire seat (weldings, sewings, straps etc.) . 32 Annex C (normative)
Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 34 Annex D (normative)
Procedures for testing efficiency of valves of inflatable devices . 35 Annex E (normative)
Security of the pressure release of buckles . 36 Annex F (normative)
Procedures for testing non-objectively measurable features like donning, adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners and points by panel assessment . 37 F.1 General . 37 F.2 Assessment of risks . 37 F.3 Guidance to panel assessment of complete device . 38 F.4 Re-assessment of instructions supplied with the device . 39 Annex G (normative)
Test procedures for seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 40 Annex H (normative)
Test procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable devices . 41 Annex I (normative)
Test procedure for size of leg holes . 42 Annex J (normative)
Test procedure for seat depth adjustment of swim seats of sizes I; II; III related to equal height of centre of gravity . 43 J.1 Dimensions . 43 J.2 Testing . 45 J.2.1 Marking a reference point . 45 SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 4 J.2.2 Measurement . 45 Annex K (informative)
Significant technical changes between this document and the previous edition EN 13138-3:2007 . 46
SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 5 Foreword This document (EN 13138-3:2014) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 162 “Protective clothing including hand and arm protection and lifejackets”, 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 June 2015 and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by June 2015. Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. This document supersedes EN 13138-3:2007. Annex K provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the previous edition EN 13138-3:2007. This European Standard is one of a series consisting of three standards dealing with buoyant devices for swimming instructions for the various stages of the learning process. − EN 13138-1, Buoyant aids for swimming instructions – Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn − EN 13138-2, Buoyant aids for swimming instructions – Part 2: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be held − EN 13138-3, Buoyant aids for swimming instructions – Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats − prEN 13138-4, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction – Part 4: Test manikin for in water performance testing of buoyant aids to be worn 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, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom. SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 6 Introduction The entire process of learning to swim is considered to include two stages: — getting familiar with the water environment and movements in it; — acquiring skills in standard swimming strokes. Buoyant aids for swimming instructions (in brief: swimming device(s)) are intended to assist users (in particular children) to learn to swim. The design and purpose of the devices are related to the above stages. Swimming devices are intended to give the user positive buoyancy in the water while maintaining the correct body position for swimming. However, it should not be assumed that standard conformity of the devices will by itself eliminate the risk of drowning as this depends also on the behaviour of the user and any supervision. Although this European Standard sets performance requirements to ensure that swimming devices perform appropriately, it is essential that the devices are used correctly and under constant and close supervision. It is important to ensure that they are securely fitted to the appropriate size of user and that when correctly fitted, they cannot become displaced. Swim seats however should allow immediate escape in case of capsizing. Therefore the use of these devices is recommended to be restricted to water out of standing depth of the user. The highest degree of protection against drowning can only be achieved by using lifejackets. It is essential that there is a clear distinction between devices intended to preserve life and those which are intended only to assist buoyancy for the user when learning to swim. As swimming devices are not life preservers, they should only be used in swimming pools and other situations free from current, tides and waves. The bulk storage of some types of swimming devices could, under certain conditions, result in a potential fire hazard. The perceived risk of such a hazard was evaluated against the actual risk to the user from materials treated with certain known toxic fire retardant chemicals. However, the fire hazard is less of a problem to the user than the risk associated with the swimming devices being put in the mouth, especially by children. For this reason, flammability requirements do not apply to this European Standard. For the above reasons and to differentiate these devices from aquatic toys, advisory safety measures, including marking, warning notices and user instructions are included in this standard. The range both of the design and function of buoyant aids for swimming instruction varies considerably and for this reason, the standard for swimming devices has been prepared in three parts, namely devices that are intended to allow the user to become familiar with water (passive user), devices that are worn (active user) and those devices that are held by the user to improve swimming strokes. Part 1 of this European Standard is only for devices that are securely attached to the body (class B devices = for an active user). They are intended to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes. Part 2 of this European Standard is for devices that are held either in the hands or by the body (class C devices = for an active user) and are intended to assist with improving specific elements of the swimming stroke. For adult beginners or more advanced users they can also be used for further stages of the process to learn to swim. Part 3 of this European Standard deals only with swim seats to assist children up to 36 months in their first attempts to learn to swim (i.e. to get familiar with the "in water environment" and moving through it). The child is positioned inside the buoyant structure, which provides buoyancy and lateral support to the body, thereby keeping the child's head above water level (class A devices = for a passive user). SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 7 Swim seats allow young children to experience the water environment and being moved through it. Movements of lower limbs and arms are possible. The use of swim seats does however not replicate any form of a correct swimming stroke. Swim seats complying with this standard provide a stable, floating position for a child sitting in the swim seat and avoids entrapment in case of capsizing. Children in swim seats do however require very close parental supervision. Overload beyond specified body weight, breaking waves and violent external forces are remaining risks that can cause capsizing. Use of these devices in water that is of the child’s standing depth will increase the risk of capsizing and will hinder or block the escape from the seat in case of emergency. Buoyant swimming aids should be only a class A or a class B or a class C device. SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 8 1 Scope This part 3 of EN 13138 specifies safety requirements for design, sizing, materials, strength and in-water performance as well as provisions for marking and the information supplied by the manufacturer for swim seats. It also specifies the relevant test methods. This standard is not applicable to products covered by EN 13138-1 and EN 13138−2. This part 3 of EN 13138 applies only to devices into which the user is placed and which have either inherent buoyancy or can be inflated or a combination of both. It only applies to Class A devices intended to introduce the user to the range to the water environment. These devices are only intended for children aged up to 36 months with a body mass less than or equal to 18 kg. It does not apply to Class B or Class C devices, to pull buoys, swim rings, lifebuoys, buoyancy aids, lifejackets or aquatic toys. 2 Normative references The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. EN 71-1, Safety of toys — Part 1: Mechanical and physical properties EN 71-3, Safety of toys — Part 3: Migration of certain elements EN 15649-1:2009+A2:2013, Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water — Part 1: Classification, materials, general requirements and test methods EN 15649-2:2009+A2:2013, Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water — Part 2: Consumer information EN 20105-A02, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour (ISO 105-A02) EN ISO 105-E03:2010, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E03: Colour fastness to chlorinated water (swimming-pool water) (ISO 105-E03:2010) EN ISO 105-E04, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E04: Colour fastness to perspiration (ISO 105-E04) EN ISO 105-X12, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part X12: Color fastness to rubbing (ISO 105-X12) EN ISO 3696:1995, Water for analytical laboratory use — Specification and test methods (ISO 3696:1987) EN ISO 12402-9:2006, Personal flotation devices — Part 9: Test methods (ISO 12402-9:2006) SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 9 3 Terms and definitions For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply. 3.1 buoyancy resultant upthrust of a swimming device when totally submerged in fresh water with its uppermost part just below the water surface 3.2 inherent buoyancy upthrust provided by material which is less dense than water or by sealed chambers that are not inflatable and are filled with air or gas 3.3 buoyant aid for swimming instruction (in brief ‘swimming device’) garment or device which when worn or held correctly will provide the buoyancy required to become familiar with movement through the water, assist with learning to swim or to improve swimming strokes 3.4 minimum buoyancy least buoyancy required by the standard 3.5 original buoyancy buoyancy provided by the complete device when first tested 3.6 class A device buoyant device in which the child is in contact with the water positioned inside the buoyant structure so that it will keep the passive user in a stable floating position where the base of the chin is at or above the surface of the water. This device is intended to allow the user to become familiar with the water environment 3.7 class B device buoyant swimming device intended to be worn, to be securely attached to the body and to introduce the active user to the range of swimming strokes 3.8 class C device device intended to be held either in the hands or, by the body and to assist with swimming strokes and/or improving specific elements of the strokes 3.9 device to be worn device having either inherent buoyancy or may be inflated to provide buoyancy and which is securely attached to the body in such a way that it cannot be accidentally removed and so as to provide the user with buoyancy 3.10 device to be held device held either in the hands or by the body and provides buoyancy whilst it is being held by the user SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 10 3.11 conditioning process to which the complete device shall be submitted that includes immersion in chlorinated swimming pool water and storage in cold and hot conditions and comprising a number of cycles, to simulate the conditions to which the device is likely to be subjected in normal use and storage 3.12 component sub group of the entire device which contributes to either buoyancy, function or safety 3.13 swim seat buoyant device intended to introduce the user to the aquatic environment and to build water confidence as a pre-requisite to learning to swim. Swim seats provide safety for the user but do not guarantee protection against drowning Note 1 to entry: Swim seats are learning aids and should not be mistaken with aquatic toys as defined in EN 71–1. 3.14 swim seat system all integrated components (parts) of a swim seat which contribute to stable floating conditions and to safety during normal use or after an emergency capsizing 3.15 escape complete separation between the test dummy and the swim seat in case of a deliberate capsizing of the swim seat or swim seat system 3.16 assessment panel group of three people who are appointed by a test house, all of whom are experienced in assessing buoyant swimming devices 3.17 kick board buoyant device designed to be held in the hands or by the arms in order to support the body in the water to assist the user to improve swimming strokes 4 Classification 4.1 General Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1: SIST EN 13138-3:2015
EN 13138-3:2014 (E) 11 Table 1 — Classification of buoyant devices Class Description A Device in which the child is positioned inside the buoyant structure and is in contact with the water. This device is intended to allow the user to become familiar with the water environment and movement through it. The device will keep the passive user in a stable floating position so that the base of the chin is at or above the surface of the water. B Buoyant swimming device intended to be worn, to be securely attached to the body and to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes. C Device intended to be held in the hands or by the body to assist with swimming strokes. 4.2 Categorization The requirements given in Table 2 were chosen to ensure compliance between swim seat sizes and manikin in all relevant test procedures. Table 2 — Values for categorization Age years Mass (equivalent to age)a Manikin ≤ 1 ≤ 11 kg I > 1 to 2 > 11 kg to 15 kg II > 2 to 3 > 15 kg to 18 kg III 5 Safety requirements 5.1 General Construction of a buoyant swimming device shall be such that it corresponds in terms of design, dimensions, safety, strength and durability for its intended use. The requirements set out were chosen to ensure compliance with these considerations. Where buoyant swimming devices are provided in several components, the requirements apply to each of the components as specified in the relevant paragraphs below. Buoyancy may be provided by inherent buoyancy materials, by inflatable chambers or by both. Where buoyancy is not inherent, devices shall have a minimum of two independent chambers safeguarding function and to allow the user to maintain the airway above water level at all times if one chamber fails. A device shall be only Class A or Class B or Class C. These products shall be manufactured in bright colours that are in contrast to the water sur
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SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN 13138-3:2012
01-maj-2012
3ODYDMRþLSULSRPRþNL]DXþHQMHSODYDQMDGHO 9DUQRVWQH]DKWHYHLQSUHVNXVQH
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Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for
swim seats to be worn
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen
und Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werden
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité
et méthodes d'essai pour les sièges flottants devant être portés
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 13138-3
ICS:
13.340.70 5HãLOQLMRSLþLY]JRQVND Lifejackets, buoyancy aids
SRPDJDODLQSODYDMRþL and floating devices
SULSRPRþNL
oSIST prEN 13138-3:2012 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
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oSIST prEN 13138-3:2012
EUROPEAN STANDARD
DRAFT
prEN 13138-3
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
March 2012
ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Will supersede EN 13138-3:2007
English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety
requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3:
Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für
les sièges flottants devant être portés Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werden
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee CEN/TC 162.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, 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.
This draft European Standard was established by CEN 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, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2012 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 13138-3:2012: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
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prEN 13138-3:2012 (E)
Contents Page
Foreword .4
Introduction .4
1 Scope .6
2 Normative references .6
3 Terms and definitions .6
4 Classification .8
4.1 General .8
4.2 Categorisation .8
5 Safety requirements .9
5.1 General .9
5.2 Design .9
5.2.1 Avoidance of similarities to aquatic toys .9
5.2.2 Edges, corners and points . 10
5.2.3 Buckles, zippers and other fixings . 10
5.2.4 Small parts . 10
5.2.5 Valves and stoppers . 10
5.3 Sizing . 10
5.4 Materials . 11
5.4.1 Thread . 11
5.4.2 Resistance to puncturing . 11
5.4.3 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant material to water absorption . 11
5.4.4 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant materials to compression . 11
5.4.5 Migration of certain elements . 11
5.4.6 Resistance to chlorinated salt water . 11
5.4.7 Material used for markings . 11
5.4.8 Resistance of the markings to perspiration . 11
5.4.9 Adhesion of markings . 12
5.5 Strength . 12
5.5.1 Strength of entire seat . 12
5.5.2 Seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 12
5.6 In-water performance . 12
5.6.1 Residual buoyancy . 12
5.6.2 Fit and positioning . 12
5.6.3 In-water behaviour, static stability . 12
5.6.4 In-water behaviour, static stability, capsizing under extreme condition (option 1 to 3) . 12
5.6.5 Escape from the swim seat (body entrapment, leg l foot entanglement) . 13
5.6.6 In-water behaviour, static stability retention of function . 13
6 Test methods . 13
6.1 Enhanced conditioning . 13
6.2 Test apparatus and procedure . 14
7 Warnings and markings . 14
7.1 General . 14
7.2 Warnings and markings on the product . 14
7.3 Information supplied by the manufacturer . 15
7.3.1 Instructions for use . 15
7.4 Consumer information at the point of sale . 15
Annex A (normative) Test manikins I to III . 17
2
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prEN 13138-3:2012 (E)
Annex B (normative) Test methods for swim seats . 21
Annex C (normative) Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 27
Annex D (normative) Procedures for testing efficiency of non-return valves of inflatable devices . 28
Annex E (normative) Security of the pressure release of buckles . 29
Annex F (normative) Procedures for testing non-objectively measurable features like donning,
adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners and points by panel assessment . 30
Annex G (normative) Test procedures for seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 33
Annex H (normative) Test procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable
devices. 34
Annex I (normative) Test procedure for size of leg holes . 35
Annex J (informative) Significant technical changes between this document and the previous
edition EN 13138-3:2007 . 36
Bibliography . 38
Figures
Figure 1 — Recommended layout of the product information label . 16
Figure A.1 — Dimensions . 18
Figure A.2 — calibration of centre of gravity . 20
Figure B.1 — Positioning of manikin when testing static and dynamic stability . 21
Figure B.2 — Force application and tipping angle at self righting test . 22
Figure B.3 — Test board for escape test . 24
Figure B.4 — Test board installation inside pool . 25
Figure B.5 — Strength of entire seat assembly . 26
Figure E.1 — Example of test method for buckles security . 29
Figure I.1 — Torso probe . 35
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oSIST prEN 13138-3:2012
prEN 13138-3:2012 (E)
Foreword
This document (prEN 13138-3:2012) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 162 “Protective
clothing including hand and arm protection and lifejackets”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 13138-3:2007.
Annex J provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the previous
edition EN 13138-3:2007.
This European Standard is one of a series consisting of three standards dealing with buoyant devices for
swimming instructions for the various stages of the learning process:
Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn
Part 2: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be held
Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats to be worn
Introduction
The entire process of learning to swim is considered to include two stages:
getting familiar with the water environment and movements in it;
acquiring skills in standard swimming strokes.
Buoyant devices for swimming instructions (in brief: swimming device(s)) are intended to assist users (in
particular children) to learn to swim. The design and purpose of the devices are related to the above stages.
Swimming devices are intended to give the user positive buoyancy in the water whilst maintaining the correct
body position for swimming. However, it should not be assumed that standard conformity of the devices will by
itself eliminate the risk of drowning as this depends also on the behaviour of the user and any supervision.
Although this European Standard sets performance requirements to ensure that swimming devices perform
appropriately, it is essential that the devices are used correctly and under constant and close supervision. It is
important to ensure that they are securely fitted to the appropriate size of user and that when correctly fitted,
they cannot become displaced. Swim seats however shall allow immediate escape in case of capsizing.
Therefore the use of these devices is recommended to be restricted to water out of standing depth of the user.
The highest degree of protection against drowning can only be achieved by using lifejackets. It is essential
that there is a clear distinction between devices intended to preserve life and those which are intended only to
assist buoyancy for the user when learning to swim. As swimming devices are not life preservers, they should
only be used in swimming pools and other situations free from current, tides and waves.
The bulk storage of some types of swimming devices could, under certain conditions, result in a potential fire
hazard. The perceived risk of such a hazard was evaluated against the actual risk to the user from materials
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treated with certain known toxic fire retardant chemicals. However, the fire hazard is less of a problem to the
user than the risk associated with the swimming devices being put in the mouth, especially by children. For
this reason, flammability requirements are not included in this European Standard.
For the above reasons and to differentiate these devices from aquatic toys, advisory safety measures,
including marking, warning notices and user instructions are included in this standard.
The range both of the design and function of swimming devices varies considerably and for this reason, the
standard for swimming devices has been prepared in three parts, namely devices that are intended to allow
the user to become familiar with water (passive user), devices that are worn (active user) and those devices
that are held by the user to improve swimming strokes.
Part 1 of this European Standard is only for devices that are securely attached to the body (class B devices =
for an active user). They are intended to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes.
Part 2 of this European Standard is for devices that are held either in the hands or by the body (class C
devices = for an active user) and are intended to assist with improving specific elements of the swimming
stroke. For adult beginners or more advanced users they can also be used for further stages of the process to
learn to swim.
Part 3 of this European Standard deals only with swim seats to assist children up to 36 months in their first
attempts to learn to swim (i.e. to get familiar with the „in-water-environment“ and moving through it). The child
is positioned inside the buoyant structure, which provides buoyancy and lateral support to the body, thereby
keeping the child's head above water level (class A devices = for a passive user).
Swim seats allow young children to experience the water environment and being moved through it.
Movements of lower limbs and arms are possible. The use of swim seats does however not replicate any form
of a correct swimming stroke.
Swim seats complying with this standard provide a stable, floating position for a child sitting in the swimseat
and avoids entrapment in case of capsizing. Children in swim seats do however require very close parental
supervision. Overload beyond specified body weight, breaking waves and violent external forces are
remaining risks that can cause capsizing. Use of these devices in water that is of the child’s standing depth
will increase the risk of capsizing and will hinder or block the escape from the seat in case of emergency.
Buoyant swimming aids shall be only a class A or a class B or a class C device.
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1 Scope
This European Standard specifies safety requirements for design, sizing, materials, strength and in-water
performance as well as provisions for marking and the information supplied by the manufacturer for swim
seats. It also specifies the relevant test methods. This standard is not applicable to products covered by
EN 13138-1 and -2.
This part of EN 13138 covers class A buoyancy devices in which children are seated. These devices are only
intended for children aged up to 36 months with a body mass less than or equal to 18 kg.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 71-1, Safety of toys – Part 1: Mechanical and physical properties.
EN 71-3, Safety of toys – Part 3: Migration of certain elements.
EN 15649-1:2010, Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water – Part 1: Classification, materials,
general requirements and test methods.
EN 20105-A02, Textiles – Tests for colour fastness – Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
(ISO 105-A02).
EN ISO 105-E03:2010, Textiles – Tests for colour fastness – Part E03: Colour fastness to chlorinated water
(swimming-pool water) (ISO 105-E03:2010).
EN ISO 105-E04, Textiles – Tests for colour fastness – Part E04: Colour fastness to perspiration (ISO 105-
E04).
EN ISO 105-X12, Textiles – Tests for colour fastness – Part X12: Colour fastness to rubbing (ISO 105-X12).
EN ISO 3696:1995, Water for analytical laboratory use – Specification and test methods (ISO 3696:1987).
EN ISO 12402-7:2006, Personal flotation devices – Part 7: Materials and components - Safety requirements
and test methods (ISO 12402-7:2006).
EN ISO 12402-9:2006, Personal flotation devices – Part 9: Test methods (ISO 12402-9:2006).
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
buoyancy
resultant upthrust of a swimming device when totally submerged in fresh water with its uppermost part just
below the water surface
3.2
inherent buoyancy
upthrust provided by material which is less dense than water or by sealed chambers that are not inflatable and
are filled with air or gas
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3.3
buoyant swimming device
garment or device which when worn or held correctly will provide the buoyancy required to become familiar
with movement through the water, assist with learning to swim or to improve swimming strokes
3.4
minimum buoyancy
least buoyancy required by the standard
3.5
original buoyancy
buoyancy provided by the complete device when first tested
3.6
class A device
buoyant device in which the child is in contact with the water positioned inside the buoyant structure. This
device is intended to allow the user to become familiar with the water environment.
Note 1 to entry: The device will keep the passive user in a stable floating position so that the base of the chin is at or
above the surface of the water
3.7
class B device
buoyant swimming device intended to be worn, to be securely attached to the body and to introduce the active
user to the range of swimming strokes
3.8
class C device
device intended to be held either in the hands or, by the body and to assist with swimming strokes and/or
improving specific elements of the strokes.
3.9
device to be worn
device having either inherent buoyancy or may be inflated to provide buoyancy and which is securely attached
to the body in such a way that it cannot be accidentally removed and so as to provide the user with positive
buoyancy
3.10
device to be held
device held either in the hands or by the body and provides buoyancy whilst it is being held by the user
3.11
conditioning
process to which the complete device shall be submitted and comprising a number of cycles, to simulate the
conditions to which the device is likely to be subjected in normal use and storage.
Note 1 to entry: The conditioning process includes immersion in chlorinated swimming pool water and storage in cold and
hot conditions
3.12
component
sub group of the entire device which contributes to either buoyancy, function or safety
3.13
swim seat
buoyant device intended to introduce the user to the aquatic environment and to build water confidence as a
pre-requisite to learning to swim. Swim seats provide safety for the user but do not guarantee protection
against drowning.
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Note 1 to entry: Swim seats are learning aids and should not be mistaken with aquatic toys as defined in EN 71-1.
3.14
swim seat system
all integrated components (parts) of a swim seat which contribute to stable floating conditions and to safety
during normal use or after an emergency capsizing
3.15
escape
complete separation between the test dummy and the swim seat in case of a deliberate capsizing of the swim
seat or swim seat system
3.16
assessment panel
group of three people who are appointed by an accredited and notified test house, all of whom are
experienced in assessing buoyant swimming devices
3.17
kick board
buoyant device designed to be held in the hands or by the arms in order to support the body in the water to
assist the user to improve swimming strokes
4 Classification
4.1 General
Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1:
Table 1 — Classification of buoyant devices
Class Description
Device in which the child is positioned inside the buoyant structure and is in
contact with the water. This device is intended to allow the user to become
A
familiar with the water environment and movement through it. The device will
keep the passive user in a stable floating position so that the base of the chin is
at or above the surface of the water.
Buoyant swimming device intended to be worn, to be securely attached to the
B
body and to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes.
Device intended to be held in the hands or by the body to assist with swimming
C
strokes.
4.2 Categorisation
The requirements given in Table 2 were chosen to ensure compliance between swim seat sizes and manikin
in all relevant test procedures.
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Table 2 — Values for categorisation
Age Mass Manikin
a
years (equivalent to age)
I
≤ 1 ≤ 11 kg
> 1 to 2 > 11 kg to 15 kg II
> 2 to 3 > 15 kg to 18 kg III
5 Safety requirements
5.1 General
Construction of a buoyant swimming device shall be such that it corresponds in terms of design, dimensions,
safety, strength and durability for its intended use. The requirements set out were chosen to ensure
compliance with these considerations.
Where buoyant swimming devices are provided in several components, the requirements apply to all
components. These components shall be permanently attached to the swim seat or form an integral,
functional part of it in the same way that the entire swim seat cannot be used without all components.
Where buoyancy is not inherent, devices shall have a residual buoyancy and shall be tested for safety using
the dummy test to ensure that the airway is always kept clear of the water. A device may be only class A or
class B or class C.
NOTE When choosing a material for the device, consideration should be given to the eventual disposal of the device
having regard to any possible impact on the environment.
5.2 Design
5.2.1 Avoidance of similarities to aquatic toys
5.2.1.1 Shape
Design and appearance of swim seats shall not evoke the impression of being an aquatic toy.
Inflatable buoyancy chambers or buoyancy chambers filled by air or inherently buoyant material shall be
limited in number and volume to the functional needs of providing sufficient buoyancy and safety. There shall
be no toy elements or above water level structures like e.g. animal imitations, car or boat structures or other
elements evoking the character of an aquatic toy and no wind catching structures e.g. canopy or sun-shade.
5.2.1.2 Colour and Decorations
These products shall be manufactured in bright colours that are in contrast to the water surface so as to be
visible at all times when in use. Wholly transparent or materials in any shade of undecorated blue in the visible
areas are not acceptable. Warnings etc. (see 7.2) shall be printed in contrasting colours to the background on
which they are printed.
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NOTE For safety reasons and to assist in supervising children when in the water, the visible areas of these products
when being used must be clearly visible from the water’s edge or the poolside when the water is crowded, moving or may
not be clear.
5.2.1.3 Special features
Special features or equipment like handles etc shall not impair the safety of the device. Requirements given in
5.6, in water behaviour, shall be met with and without detachable equipment.
5.2.2 Edges, corners and points
Buoyant swimming devices shall be of a design such that they cannot cause harm to the user. Edges and
corners of hard and rigid materials shall be chamfered or rounded.
Round edges or corners shall have a minimum radius of 1 mm and where a chamfer is part of the design, it
shall be of (45 ± 5) ° and at least 1 mm in width. There shall be no barbs or other sharp points or features.
Testing shall be by measurement and tactile assessment in accordance with Annex F.
5.2.3 Buckles, zippers and other fixings
If buckles, zippers or other detachable fastening devices are used as parts of the entire device in order to
attach the device to the body or in order to connect functional parts or components they shall require at least
two simultaneous or sequential actions for their release or opening in order to prevent unintended opening or
where one single action can be applied and relies on pressure for release, it shall be necessary to apply
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