Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn

This European Standard specifies safety requirements for construction, performance, sizing, marking and information supplied by the manufacturer for swimming aids intended to assist beginners with movement through the water whilst learning to swim or whilst learning part of a swimming stroke. It also gives methods of test for verification of these requirements. This Part 1 European Standard applies only to devices that are designed to be worn, to be securely attached to the body and which have either inherent buoyancy or can be inflated. It only applies to Class B devices intended to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes. It does not apply to Class A or Class C devices, to swim rings, lifebuoys, buoyancy aids, lifejackets or aquatic toys.

Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 1: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für am Körper getragene Auftriebshilfen

Diese Europäische Norm legt sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen an Konstruktion, Gebrauchstauglichkeit, Größen, Kennzeichnung und Informationen des Herstellers von Auftriebshilfen fest, die dazu bestimmt sind, Schwimmanfängern bei der Bewegung im Wasser beim Schwimmenlernen oder beim Erlernen eines Teils einer Schwimmbewegung zu helfen. Weiterhin werden Prüfverfahren zur Verifizierung dieser Anforderungen angegeben.
Dieser Teil 1 der Europäischen Norm EN 13138 gilt ausschließlich für Auftriebshilfen zum Anziehen, die dafür ausgelegt sind, sicher am Körper befestigt zu werden, und die entweder einen Feststoffauftrieb besitzen oder aufgeblasen werden können. Er gilt nur für Auftriebshilfen der Klasse B, die dafür bestimmt sind, den Be-nutzer mit den unterschiedlichen Schwimmbewegungen vertraut zu machen. Er gilt nicht für Auftriebshilfen der Klasse A oder der Klasse C, für Schwimmringe, Rettungsringe, Schwimmhilfen, Rettungswesten oder Wasserspielzeuge.

Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les aides à la flottabilité portées au corps

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 aides à la natation conçues pour aider les utilisateurs débutant à évoluer dans l’eau, lorsqu’ils apprennent à nager ou lorsqu’il apprennent une partie d’un mouvement de natation. Elle indique également des méthodes d’essai de vérification du respect de ces exigences.
La présente partie 1 de l’EN 13138 s’applique uniquement aux dispositifs qui sont conçus pour être portés, solidement attachés au corps, et qui sont dotés d’une flottabilité inhérente ou qui sont gonflables. Elle s’applique uniquement aux dispositifs de classe B destinés à initier l’utilisateur à la gamme de mouvements de nage. Elle ne s'applique pas aux dispositifs de type A ou de type C, aux bouées de natation, aux bouées de sauvetage, aux aides à la flottabilité, aux gilets de sauvetage ou aux jouets aquatiques.

Plavajoči pripomočki za učenje plavanja - 1. del: Varnostne zahteve in preskusne metode za plavajoče pripomočke, ki se oblečejo

Ta evropski standard določa varnostne zahteve za izdelavo, delovanje. velikost, označevanje in informacije, ki jih mora proizvajalec priložiti plavalnim pripomočkom, namenjenih pomoči začetnikom pri gibanju v vodi med učenjem plavanja ali učenjem dela plavalnega zamaha. Podaja tudi preskusne metode za preverjanje teh zahtev. Ta 1. del evropskega standarda se uporablja samo za pripomočke, ki se nosijo, varno pritrdijo na telo in vsebujejo plovni material ali se lahko napihnejo. Uporablja se samo za pripomočke razreda B, ki so namenjeni seznanjanju uporabnika z različnimi plavalnimi zamahi. Ne uporablja se za pripomočke razreda A ali C, plavalne obroče, rešilne pasove, plavajoče pripomočke, rešilne jopiče ali vodne igrače.

General Information

Status
Withdrawn
Public Enquiry End Date
19-Jun-2012
Publication Date
24-Nov-2014
Withdrawal Date
07-Nov-2021
Current Stage
9900 - Withdrawal (Adopted Project)
Start Date
03-Nov-2021
Due Date
26-Nov-2021
Completion Date
08-Nov-2021

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2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 1: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für am Körper getragene AuftriebshilfenAides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les aides à la flottabilité portées au corpsBuoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn13.340.70SULSRPRþNLLifejackets, buoyancy aids and floating devicesICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 13138-1:2014SIST EN 13138-1:2014en,fr,de01-december-2014SIST EN 13138-1:2014SLOVENSKI
STANDARDSIST EN 13138-1:20081DGRPHãþD



SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 13138-1
October 2014 ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Supersedes EN 13138-1:2008English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour les aides à la flottabilité portées au corps
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 1: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für am Körper getragene Auftriebshilfen 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 13138-1:2014 ESIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 2 Contents Page Foreword .4 Introduction .5 1 Scope .7 2 Normative references .7 3 Terms and definitions .7 4 Classification .9 5 Safety Requirements .9 5.1 General .9 5.2 Buoyancy . 10 5.2.1 Buoyancy characteristics of the complete device . 10 5.2.2 Residual buoyancy . 10 5.3 Design, fit and positioning . 11 5.3.1 Adjustability - Class B devices . 11 5.3.2 Buckles, zippers and other fixings . 11 5.3.3 Retention of function . 11 5.3.4 Innocuousness . 12 5.4 Entire assembly and components . 12 5.4.1 Integrity of the entire assembly of worn devices . 12 5.4.2 Thread . 13 5.4.3 Valves, stoppers and other protruding parts . 13 5.5 Materials - mechanical properties . 13 5.5.1 Seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 13 5.5.2 Resistance to puncturing . 13 5.5.3 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant materials to compression . 13 5.6 Materials and markings . 13 5.6.1 General . 13 5.6.2 Resistance to chlorinated salt water . 14 5.6.3 Resistance of the markings to saliva . 14 5.6.4 Resistance of the markings to perspiration . 14 5.6.5 Adhesion of markings . 14 6 Test methods . 14 7 Warnings and markings . 15 7.1 General . 15 7.2 Warnings and markings on the product . 15 7.3 Information supplied by the manufacturer . 16 7.4 Consumer information at the point of sale . 16 Annex A (normative)
Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 18 Annex B (normative)
Procedures for testing efficiency of valves of inflatable devices . 19 Annex C (normative)
Security of the pressure release of buckles . 20 Annex D (normative)
Procedures for testing adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners and points by assessment panel . 21 D.1 General . 21 D.2 Assessment of Risks . 21 D.3 Re-assessment of instructions supplied with the device. 21 SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 3 Annex E (normative)
Test procedures for seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 24 Annex F (normative)
Test procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable devices. 25 Annex G (normative)
Test procedures for integrity of the entire assembly . 26 G.1 Test description . 26 G.2 Test parameters . 26 Annex H (informative)
Significant changes between this document and the previous edition of EN 13138-1:2008 . 27 Annex ZA (informative)
Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential Requirements of EU Directive 89/686/EEC . 29 Bibliography . 30
SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 4 Foreword This document (EN 13138-1:2014) 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 April 2015 and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by April 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 13138-1:2008. This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the European Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive(s). For relationship with EU Directive(s), see informative Annex ZA which is an integral part of this document. Annex H provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the previous edition EN 13138-1:2008. This European Standard is one of a series consisting of four standards dealing with buoyant devices for swimming instructions for the various stages of the learning process: − EN 13138-1, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction — Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn − EN 13138-2, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction — Part 2: Safety requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be held − EN 13138-3, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction — 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 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 5 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 instruction (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). 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. SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 6 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. SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 7 1 Scope This European Standard specifies safety requirements for construction, performance, sizing, marking and information supplied by the manufacturer for swimming aids intended to assist beginners with movement through the water while learning to swim or while learning part of a swimming stroke. It also gives methods of test for verification of these requirements. This part 1 of EN 13138 applies only to devices that are designed to be worn, to be securely attached to the body and which have either inherent buoyancy or can be inflated. It only applies to Class B devices intended to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes. It does not apply to Class A 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 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) 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 SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 8 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 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. SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 9 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 Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1. Table 1 — Classification of buoyant devices Class Definition A 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. 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 active user to the range of swimming strokes. C 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 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. SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 10 These products shall be manufactured in bright colours that are in contrast to the water surface so as to be visible at all times and at any angle when in use. Wholly transparent or materials in any shade of undecorated blue in the visible areas when in use are not acceptable. For garments, these colour requirements apply only to the neck, shoulder and upper chest area. For safety reasons and to assist in supervising children when in the water, the visible areas of these products when being used shall be clearly visible from the water’s edge or the poolside when the water is crowded, moving or may not be clear. Where criteria cannot be objectively assessed, they shall be subject to evaluation by the assessment panel. The assessment panel shall agree, by at least a 2:1 majority or by unanimity, that the device is visible when worn in the water. 5.2 Buoyancy 5.2.1 Buoyancy characteristics of the complete device When tested in accordance with the procedures in EN ISO 12402-9, the device shall, with all of its buoyant components, have minimum buoyancy in accordance with Table 2. Where the Table shows a “dash” (-), this is intended to indicate that the device is not appropriate for the type of user. Table 2 — Buoyancy characteristics including illustration of class of device
Class of buoyant aid for swimming instruction Mass range kg Agea years Minimum buoyancy N
Garment Collar Arm bands per pair Chest belt Backpack ≤ 11 ≤ 1 20 20 20 - - > 11 to 15 > 1 to 2 20 20 20 - - > 15 to 18 > 2 to 3 20 25 25 15 20 > 18 to 30 > 3 to 6 20 25 25 15 20 > 30 to 60 > 6 to 12 25 30 30 20 25 > 60 > 12 30 40 40 25 30 a Age groups are for orientation only. The correlation between the age and the body mass can vary considerably. 5.2.2 Residual buoyancy Any inflatable device for swimming instruction when tested in accordance with EN ISO 12402-9:2006, 5.5.9, shall, after complete deflation of one chamber, provide no less than 50 % of the minimum buoyancy according to Table 2. Where buoyancy is not provided by inherently buoyant material the device shall have at least two independent air chambers. Where an inflatable device or component consists of two or more components, after deflating SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 11 the one chamber most likely to fail in the component, this component shall provide at least 25 % of the total minimum buoyancy for the device set out in Table 2. NOTE Devices that have buoyancy provided by inherently buoyant material are not considered likely to fail in normal use. 5.3 Design, fit and positioning 5.3.1 Adjustability - Class B devices Each device shall be designed in such a way as to ensure that: — it can be securely fitted to the appropriate size of user; — its position on the body shall not, when correctly fitted, allow it to be able to be accidentally displaced when in normal use; — its position on the body permits the wearer to adopt the correct position for the stroke being learned. The position of the device when worn is shown in Figure 1. Garment Collar Arm bands (per pair) Chest ring or chest belt Backpack
Figure 1 — Position of the device on the body The testing procedures for this device shall be in accordance with Annex D. Sizing of class B devices shall be in accordance with the range of body weights as specified in Figure 5. The suitability of the device for a wearer shall be indicated on the product (see Figure 5) and by marking the relevant box(es) according to Figure 5, by ticking “q” in the appropriate box. 5.3.2 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. Where one single action can be applied and relies on pressure for release, it shall be necessary to apply a force of at least 50 N. Testing shall be in accordance with Annex C. Verification shall be executed by the assessment panel according to Annex D in the context of the relevant opening/closing system. 5.3.3 Retention of function Class B devices shall retain their intended function in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions even if there is a failure of a component or part of the device. SIST EN 13138-1:2014



EN 13138-1:2014 (E) 12 Devices will be tested through inspection by members of an assessment panel in accordance with Annex D. 5.3.4 Innocuousness 5.3.4.1 General Class B devices shall be of a design and construction such that they cannot cause harm to the user. 5.3.4.2 Edges, corners and points 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 Table D.1. 5.3.4.3 Small parts Attached small parts shall withstand a pull of (90 ± 2) N in the direction most likely to cause failure withou
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN 13138-1:2012
01-maj-2012
3ODYDMRþLSULSRPRþNL]DXþHQMHSODYDQMDGHO9DUQRVWQH]DKWHYHLQSUHVNXVQH
PHWRGH]DSODYDMRþHSULSRPRþNHNLVHREOHþHMR
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 1: Safety requirements and test methods for
buoyant aids to be worn
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 1: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen
und Prüfverfahren für am Körper getragene Auftriebshilfen
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité
et méthodes d'essai pour les aides à la flottabilité portées au corps
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 13138-1
ICS:
13.340.70 5HãLOQLMRSLþLY]JRQVND Lifejackets, buoyancy aids
SRPDJDODLQSODYDMRþL and floating devices
SULSRPRþNL
oSIST prEN 13138-1:2012 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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oSIST prEN 13138-1:2012

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oSIST prEN 13138-1:2012


EUROPEAN STANDARD
DRAFT
prEN 13138-1
NORME EUROPÉENNE

EUROPÄISCHE NORM

March 2012
ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Will supersede EN 13138-1:2008
English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 1: Safety
requirements and test methods for buoyant aids to be worn
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 1:
Partie 1: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai pour Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für
les aides à la flottabilité portées au corps am Körper getragene Auftriebshilfen
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 13138-1:2012: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

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Contents Page
Foreword .4
Introduction .5
1 Scope .7
2 Normative references .7
3 Terms and definitions .7
4 Classification .9
5 Safety requirements .9
5.1 General .9
5.2 Buoyancy . 10
5.2.1 Buoyancy characteristics of the complete device . 10
5.2.2 Residual buoyancy . 10
5.3 Design, fit and positioning . 11
5.3.1 Adjustability - Class B devices . 11
5.3.2 Buckles, zippers and other fixings . 11
5.3.3 Retention of function . 11
5.3.4 Edges, corners and points . 12
5.3.5 Small parts . 12
5.3.6 Migration of certain elements . 12
5.4 Entire assembly and components . 12
5.4.1 Integrity of the entire assembly of worn devices . 12
5.4.2 Thread . 13
5.4.3 Valves, stoppers and other protruding parts . 13
5.5 Materials - mechanical properties . 13
5.5.1 Seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 13
5.5.2 Resistance to puncturing . 13
5.5.3 Resistance of foam and other inherent buoyant materials to compression . 13
5.6 Materials and markings - Chemical properties . 13
5.6.1 General . 13
5.6.2 Resistance to chlorinated salt water . 13
5.6.3 Resistance of the markings to saliva. 14
5.6.4 Resistance of the markings to perspiration . 14
5.6.5 Adhesion of markings . 14
6 Test methods . 14
6.1 Conditioning . 14
6.2 Test methods . 14
7 Warnings and markings . 15
7.1 General . 15
7.2 Warnings and markings on the product . 15
7.3 Information supplied by the manufacturer . 16
7.4 Consumer information at the point of sale . 17
Annex A (normative) Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 18
Annex B (normative) Procedures for testing efficiency of non-return valves of inflatable devices . 19
Annex C (normative) Security of the pressure release of buckles . 20
Annex D (normative) Procedures for testing adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners
and points by assessment panel . 21
D.1 General . 21
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D.2 Assessment of Risks . 21
D.3 Re-assessment of instructions supplied with the device . 21
Annex E (normative) Test procedures for seam strength and durability of inflatable devices . 24
Annex F (normative) Test procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable
devices. 25
Annex G (normative) Test procedures for integrity of the entire assembly . 26
G.1 Test description . 26
G.2 Test parameters . 26
Annex H (informative) Significant technical changes between this document and the previous
edition EN 13138-1:2007 . 27
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential
Requirements of EU Directive 89/686/EEC . 28


Figures
Figure 1 — Position of the device on the body. 11
Figure 2 — Additional safety sign for armbands: swimming aid to be worn on upper arm . 16
Figure 3 — Additional safety sign for devices comprising more than one component: do not omi parts to
achieve full buoyancy . 16
Figure C.1 — Example of test method for buckle security . 20
Figure G.1 — Test procedures for assembly integrity . 26

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Foreword
This document (prEN 13138-1:2012) 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 13138-1:2008.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive(s).
For relationship with EU Directive(s), see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.
Annex H provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the previous
edition EN 13138-1:2008.
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
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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
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).

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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.
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1 Scope
This European Standard specifies safety requirements for construction, performance, sizing, marking and
information supplied by the manufacturer for swimming aids intended to assist beginners with movement
through the water whilst learning to swim or whilst learning part of a swimming stroke. It also gives methods of
test for verification of these requirements.
This part 1 of EN 13138 applies only to devices that are designed to be worn, to be securely attached to the
body and which have either inherent buoyancy or can be inflated. It only applies to Class B devices intended
to introduce the user to the range of swimming strokes. It does not apply to Class A or Class C devices, to
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 20105-A02, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
(ISO 105-A02)
EN 15649-1:2010, Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water — Part 1: Classification, materials,
general requirements and test methods
EN 15649-2:2010, Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water — Part 2: Consumer Information
EN ISO 105-E03:1996, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E03: Colour fastness to chlorinated water
(swimming-pool water) (ISO 105-E03:1994)
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 12402-9:2006, 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
Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1.
Table 1 — Classification of buoyant devices
Class Definition
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
A
the water environment. 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 body
B
and to introduce the active user to the range of swimming strokes.
Device intended to be held either in the hands or by the body and to assist with
C
swimming strokes and/or improving specific elements of the strokes
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.
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 separate chambers safeguarding function and
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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 surface so as to be
visible at all times and at any angle when in use. Wholly transparent or materials in any shade of undecorated
blue in the visible areas when in use are not acceptable. For garments, these colour requirements apply only
to the neck, shoulder and upper chest area.
For safety reasons and to assist in supervising children when in the water, the visible areas of these products
when being used shall be clearly visible from the water’s edge or the poolside when the water is crowded,
moving or may not be clear.
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 Buoyancy
5.2.1 Buoyancy characteristics of the complete device
When tested in accordance with the procedures in EN ISO 12402-9, the device shall, with all of its buoyant
components, have minimum buoyancy in accordance with Table 2. Where the Table shows a "dash" ( - ), this
is intended to indicate that the device is not appropriate for the type of user.
Table 2 — Buoyancy characteristics including illustration of class of device
Category of user Class of buoyant aid for swimming instruction
a
Mass range Minimum buoyancy
Age
kg N
years
 Arm bands
Garment Collar Chest belt Backpack
per pair
≤ 1 ≤ 11 20 20 20 - -
> 1 to 2 > 11 to 15 20 20 20 - -
20 25 25 15 20
> 2 to 3 > 15 to 18
> 3 to 6 > 18 to 30 20 25 25 15 20
> 6 to 12 > 30 to 60 25 30 30 20 25
> 12 > 60 30 40 40 25 30
a
Age groups are for orientation only. The correlation between the age and the body mass can vary considerably.

5.2.2 Residual buoyancy
Any device for swimming instruction providing buoyancy by inflation shall provide, when tested in accordance
with 5.5.9 of EN ISO 12402-9:2006, a residual buoyancy of no less than 50% of the minimum buoyancy
according to Table 2 after complete deflation of one chamber.
Where buoyancy is not provided by inherently buoyant material the device shall have at least two separate air
chambers.
Where an inflatable device consists of two or more components, after deflating the one chamber most likely to
fail in the component, this component shall provide at least 25 % of the total minimum buoyancy for the device
set out in Table 2.
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NOTE Devices that have buoyancy provided by inherently buoyant material are not considered likely to fail in normal
use.
5.3 Design, fit and positioning
5.3.1 Adjustability - Class B devices
The position of the device shall be as high as possible on the chest, back and shoulder area as shown in
Figure 1 above. Each device shall be designed in such a way as to ensure that:
 it can be securely fitted to the appropriate size of user;
 its position on the body shall not, when correctly fitted, allow it to be able to be accidentally displaced
when in normal use;
 its position on the body permits the wearer to adopt the correct position for the stroke being learned.
Arm bands Chest ring or
Garment Collar Backpack
(per pair) chest belt


Figure 1 — Position of the device on the body

The testing procedures for this device shall be in accordance with Annex D.
Sizing of class B devices shall be in accordance with the range of body weights as specified in Figure 3. The
size of the device shall be indicated on the product (see Figure 3) and by marking the relevant box(es)
according to Fi
...

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