SIST EN 13138-3:2021
(Main)Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats into which a user is positioned
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for swim seats into which a user is positioned
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 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 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, lifebuoys, buoyancy aids, lifejackets or aquatic toys.
Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3: Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper getragen werden
Dieser Teil 3 der EN 13138 legt für Schwimmsitze sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen an Gestaltung, Größe, Werkstoffe, Festigkeit und Verhalten im Wasser fest sowie Vorgaben für die Kennzeichnung und die Informationen, die vom Hersteller bereitgestellt werden. Er legt zudem die entsprechenden Prüfverfahren fest. Diese Norm gilt nicht für Produkte, die durch EN 13138 1 und 2 abgedeckt werden.
Dieser Teil 3 der EN 13138 gilt ausschließlich für Auftriebshilfen, in die Benutzer gesetzt werden und die entweder einen Feststoffauftrieb besitzen oder aufgeblasen werden können oder beides. Er gilt nur für Auftriebshilfen der Klasse A, die dazu vorgesehen sind, den Benutzer mit den Bedingungen im Wasser vertraut zu machen. Diese Auftriebshilfen sind nur für Kinder bis zu einem Alter von 36 Monaten mit einem Körpergewicht bis 18 kg vorgesehen. Er gilt nicht für Auftriebshilfen der Klasse B oder der Klasse C, für Armzug-Trainingsgeräte, Schwimmringe, Rettungsringe, Schwimmhilfen, Rettungswesten oder Wasserspiel¬zeuge.
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la natation - Partie 3 : Exigences de sécurité et méthodes d'essai relatives aux dispositifs dans lesquels l'enfant est placé
Le présent document spécifie les exigences de sécurité relatives à la conception, à la taille, aux matériaux, à la solidité et aux performances dans l'eau ainsi qu'aux dispositions pour le marquage et les informations fournies par le fabricant des sièges flottants. Il spécifie également les méthodes d'essai appropriées. Le présent document n'est pas applicable aux produits couverts par l'EN 13138 1 et l'EN 13138 2.
Le présent document s'applique uniquement aux dispositifs de natation dans lesquels l'utilisateur est placé et qui sont dotés d'une flottabilité inhérente ou qui sont gonflables, ou les deux. Il s'applique uniquement aux dispositifs de natation de classe A conçus dans le but de familiariser l'utilisateur avec l'environnement aquatique. Ces dispositifs de natation sont uniquement destinés aux enfants âgés de jusqu'à 36 mois et d'un poids inférieur ou égal à 19 kg. Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux dispositifs de natation de classe B ou de classe C, aux bouées de traction, aux bouées de sauvetage, aux aides à la flottabilité, aux gilets de sauvetage ou aux jouets aquatiques.
Plavajoči pripomočki za učenje plavanja - 3. del: Varnostne zahteve in preskusne metode za plavajoče sedeže, v katere je uporabnik nameščen
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
SIST EN 13138-3:2021
01-december-2021
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 13138-3:2015
Plavajoči pripomočki za učenje plavanja - 3. del: Varnostne zahteve in preskusne
metode za plavajoče sedeže, v katere je uporabnik nameščen
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for
swim seats into which a user is positioned
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 relatives aux dispositifs dans lesquels l'enfant est placé
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 13138-3:2021
ICS:
13.340.70 Rešilni jopiči, vzgonska Lifejackets, buoyancy aids
pomagala in plavajoči and floating devices
pripomočki
97.220.40 Oprema za športe na Outdoor and water sports
prostem in vodne športe equipment
SIST EN 13138-3:2021 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
October 2021
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Supersedes EN 13138-3:2014
English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety
requirements and test methods for swim seats into which
a user is positioned
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3:
natation - Partie 3 : Exigences de sécurité et méthodes Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und
d'essai relatives aux dispositifs dans lesquels l'enfant Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper
est placé getragen werden
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 4 July 2021.
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, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, 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: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2021 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 13138-3:2021 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Classification. 10
4.1 General. 10
4.2 Manikin characteristics . 10
5 Safety requirements concerning design and material . 10
5.1 General. 10
5.2 Design . 11
5.3 Sizing . 12
5.4 Materials — Mechanical properties . 13
5.5 Measurement of buoyancy of complete swimming device . 14
5.6 Markings on swimming devices. 14
5.7 Strength . 15
5.8 Safety requirements concerning in-water performance . 15
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
7.4 Consumer information at the point of sale . 19
Annex A (normative) Dimensions of manikins I to III . 21
Annex B (normative) Test procedures for swim seats . 27
Annex C (normative) Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 33
Annex D (normative) Procedures for testing efficiency of valves of inflatable swimming
devices . 34
Annex E (normative) Procedure for testing the security of the pressure release of buckles
without double action (simultaneous/sequential) release . 35
Annex F (normative) Procedures for testing non-objectively measurable features like donning,
adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners and points by panel assessment . 36
Annex G (normative) Procedures for testing for seam strength and durability of inflatable
swimming devices . 39
Annex H (normative) Procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable
swimming devices . 40
Annex I (normative) Procedure for testing the size of leg holes. 41
2
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
Annex J (normative) Testing and measurement of means of seat depth adjustment . 42
Annex K (normative) Detailed illustrations regarding the layout of information symbols,
general safety signs and their arrangement on the product . 46
Annex L (normative) Procedure for testing entanglement on protruding parts . 53
Annex M (informative) Significant technical changes between this document and the previous
edition EN 13138-3:2014 . 54
Bibliography . 55
3
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
European foreword
This document (EN 13138-3:2021) 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 2022 and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by April 2022.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 13138-3:2014.
Annex M provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the
previous edition EN 13138-3:2014.
EN 13138, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction consists of the following parts dealing with buoyant
swimming 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 into which a user is positioned
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: 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, Republic of North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United
Kingdom.
4
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
Introduction
The entire process of learning to swim is considered to include two stages:
— getting familiar with the water environment and movements in it, and
— 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 swimming 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
swimming devices will by itself eliminate the risk of drowning as this depends also on the behaviour of
the user and any supervision.
Although this document sets performance requirements to ensure that swimming devices perform
appropriately, it is essential that the swimming 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 swimming 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 swimming 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 document.
For the above reasons and to differentiate these swimming devices from aquatic toys, advisory safety
measures, including marking, warning notices and user instructions are included in this document.
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
swimming devices that are intended to allow the user to become familiar with water (passive user),
swimming devices that are worn (active user) and those swimming devices that are held by the user to
improve swimming strokes.
— Part 1 of this series is only for products that are securely attached to the body (Class B swimming
devices = for an active user). They are intended to introduce the user to the range of swimming
strokes.
— Part 2 of this series is for products that are held either in the hands or by the body (class C swimming
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 series deals only with products (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).
5
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
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 document provide a stable, floating position for a child sitting in the swim
seat and avoid entrapment in case of capsizing. Children in swim seats do however require very close
parental supervision. Overload beyond specified body mass, 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.
6
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
1 Scope
This document 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 document is not applicable to products
covered by EN 13138-1 and EN 13138-2.
This document applies only to swimming 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 swimming devices
intended to introduce the user to the water environment. These swimming devices are only intended for
children aged up to 36 months with a body mass less than or equal to 19 kg. It does not apply to class B
or class C swimming devices, to pull buoys, lifebuoys, buoyancy aids, lifejackets or aquatic toys.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018, Safety of toys — Part 1: Mechanical and physical properties
EN 20105-A02:1994, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in
colour (ISO 105-A02:1993)
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-E04:2013, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part E04: Colour fastness to perspiration
(ISO 105-E04:2013)
EN ISO 105-X12:2016, Textiles — Tests for colour fastness — Part X12: Colour fastness to rubbing
(ISO 105-X12:2016)
EN ISO 3696:1995, Water for analytical laboratory use — Specification and test methods (ISO 3696:1987)
EN ISO 12402-7:2020, Personal flotation devices — Part 7: Materials and components — Safety
requirements and test methods (ISO 12402-7:2020)
ISO 3864-1, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 1: Design principles for safety signs
and safety markings
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
buoyancy
resultant upthrust of a swimming device when totally submerged in fresh water with its uppermost part
just below the water surface
7
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
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
garment or swimming 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
Note 1 to entry: In brief: swimming device.
3.4
minimum buoyancy
least buoyancy required by the standard
3.5
original buoyancy
buoyancy provided by the complete swimming device when first tested
3.6
class A swimming device
swimming device for children up to 36 months of age 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
Note 1 to entry: This swimming device is intended to allow the user to become familiar with the water
environment.
Note 2 to entry: For swimming devices class A for children above 36 months, see EN ISO 25649-4.
3.7
class B swimming device
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 swimming device
swimming 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
conditioning
process to which the complete swimming device is 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 swimming device is likely to be subjected in normal use and storage
3.10
component
sub-group of the entire swimming device which contributes to either buoyancy, function or safety
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EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
3.11
swim seat
buoyant swimming device intended to introduce the user to the aquatic environment and to build water
confidence as a pre-requisite to learning to swim
Note 1 to entry: Swim seats provide safety for the user but do not guarantee protection against drowning.
Note 2 to entry: Swim seats are learning aids and should not be mistaken with aquatic toys as defined in
EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018.
3.12
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 a capsizing emergency
3.13
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
3.14
assessment panel
group of three people, all of whom are experienced in assessing buoyant swimming devices appointed to
witness and assess the swimming device
3.15
sinking angle
angle to which a test manikin is intentionally calibrated when hung on its centre of gravity and completely
immersed under water
3.16
passive user
user who does not need to make conscious efforts to keep their airway above water level since this is
achieved by the swimming device
3.17
active user
user who needs to make conscious efforts to keep their airway above water level since this is not achieved
by the swimming device
3.18
swimming device intended to be worn
swimming 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 be removed and so as to provide
the user with buoyancy
3.19
swimming device intended to be held
device held either in the hands or by the body and which provides buoyancy whilst it is being held by the
user
9
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
4 Classification
4.1 General
Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1.
Table 1 — Classification of buoyant aids for swimming instruction
Class Description
Buoyant swimming device in which the child is in contact with the water positioned
inside the buoyant structure. This swimming device is intended to allow the user to
A become familiar with the water environment and movements through it. The swimming
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 and
B
to introduce the active user to the range of swimming strokes.
Swimming device intended to be held either in the hands or by the body and to assist
C
with swimming strokes and/or improving specific elements of the strokes.
4.2 Manikin characteristics
The characteristics given in Table 2 were chosen to ensure compliance between swim seat sizes and
manikin in all relevant test procedures.
Table 2 — Values for manikins
Age years Mass Manikin
≤ 1 ≤ 11 kg I
> 1 to 2 > 11 kg to 15 kg II
> 2 to 3 > 15 kg to 19 kg III
5 Safety requirements concerning design and material
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, swimming 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 swimming 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.
10
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
For safety reasons and to assist in supervising children when used 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 may make use of the specifications with regard to conspicuity led down in
EN 13138-1:2021, 5.2.
The assessment panel shall agree, by at least a 2 : 1 majority or by unanimity, that the swimming device
is visible when used in the water.
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
sunshade.
5.2.1.2 Special features
Special features or equipment, like handles etc., shall not impair the safety of the swimming device.
Requirements given in 5.6, in water behaviour, shall be met with and without detachable equipment.
5.2.2 Health and comfort
5.2.2.1 Innocuousness
Class A swimming devices shall not adversely affect the health or hygiene of the user. The materials shall
not, in the foreseeable conditions of normal use, release substances general know to be toxic,
carcinogenic, mutagenic, allergenic, toxic to reproduction or otherwise harmful.
Testing shall be carried out verifying:
— Materials specifications;
— Safety data sheets relating to the materials;
— Information relating to the suitability of the materials for use with food, in medical swimming
devices, or other relevant applications;
— Information relating to toxicological, allergenic, carcinogenic, toxic to reproduction or mutagenic
investigations on the materials;
— Information relating to ecotoxicological and other environmental investigations on the materials.
5.2.2.2 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 F.1.
11
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SIST EN 13138-3:2021
EN 13138-3:2021 (E)
5.2.2.3 Buckles, zippers and other fixings
If buckles, zippers or other detachable fastening devices are used as parts of the entire swimming device
in order to attach the swimming 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 F.
Buckles for seat depth adjustment are exempted from this requirement.
Verification shall be agreed by the assessment panel according to Annex F in the context of the relevant
opening/closing system.
5.2.2.4 Attached small parts
Attached small parts on the swimming device shall withstand a pull of (90 ± 2) N in the direction most
likely to cause failure without becoming detached from the swimming d
...
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN 13138-3:2018
01-april-2018
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Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety requirements and test methods for
swim seats into which a user is positioned
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 relatives aux dispositifs dans lesquels l'enfant est placé, Sièges
flottants
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 13138-3
ICS:
13.340.70 5HãLOQLMRSLþLY]JRQVND Lifejackets, buoyancy aids
SRPDJDODLQSODYDMRþL and floating devices
SULSRPRþNL
97.220.40 Oprema za športe na Outdoor and water sports
prostem in vodne športe equipment
oSIST prEN 13138-3:2018 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
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oSIST prEN 13138-3:2018
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oSIST prEN 13138-3:2018
DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
prEN 13138-3
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
February 2018
ICS 13.340.70; 97.220.40 Will supersede EN 13138-3:2014
English Version
Buoyant aids for swimming instruction - Part 3: Safety
requirements and test methods for swim seats into which
a user is positioned
Aides à la flottabilité pour l'apprentissage de la Auftriebshilfen für das Schwimmenlernen - Teil 3:
natation - Partie 3: Exigences de sécurité et méthodes Sicherheitstechnische Anforderungen und
d'essai relatives aux dispositifs dans lesquels l'enfant Prüfverfahren für Schwimmsitze, die am Körper
est placé, Sièges flottants 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, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, 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
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2018 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 13138-3:2018 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
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Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Classification . 9
5 Safety requirements . 10
6 Test methods . 16
7 Warnings and markings . 16
Annex A (normative) Test manikins I to III . 20
A.1 Dimension of test manikins I to III . 20
A.2 Specifications . 22
A.3 Density of components . 22
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) . 23
A.4.4 Test manikins I . III, variant: upright sitting manikin . 24
Annex B (normative) Test procedures for swim seats . 25
B.1 Fit and positioning . 25
B.1.1 General . 25
B.1.2 In-water behaviour, static stability in calm water . 25
B.1.2.1 Static stability of inflatable swim seats . 25
B.1.2.2 Static stability of swim seats made from inherent buoyant material, e.g. foam . 26
B.1.3 Efficiency of residual buoyancy and retention of function . 26
B.2 Self-righting test, options 1 to 3 . 27
B.2.1 General . 27
B.2.2 Escape test . 27
B.3 Strength of entire seat (weldings, sewings, straps etc.) . 30
Annex C (normative) Procedures for testing resistance of markings to saliva . 31
Annex D (normative) Procedures for testing efficiency of valves of inflatable devices . 32
Annex E (normative) Security of the pressure release of buckles . 33
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Annex F (normative) Procedures for testing non-objectively measurable features like
donning, adjustability, retention of function, edges, corners and points by panel
assessment . 34
F.1 General . 34
F.2 Assessment of risks . 34
F.3 Guidance to panel assessment of complete device . 35
F.4 Re-assessment of instructions supplied with the device . 36
Annex G (normative) Test procedures for seam strength and durability of inflatable
devices . 37
Annex H (normative) Test procedures for determining the puncture resistance of inflatable
devices . 38
Annex I (normative) Test procedure for size of leg holes . 39
Annex J (normative) Testing and measurement of means of seat depth adjustment . 40
J.1 General . 40
J.2 Dimensions . 41
J.3 Testing . 43
J.3.1 Marking a reference point . 43
J.3.2 Measurement . 44
Annex K (normative) Detailed illustrations regarding the layout of information symbols,
general safety signs and their arrangement on the product . 45
K.1 Product safety information symbols . 45
K.1.1 General . 45
K.1.2 Graphical Symbols characterising the category of information and heading arrayed
groups of symbols . 45
K.1.3 Graphical Symbols expressing warnings . 45
K.1.4 Graphical Symbols expressing prohibitions . 46
K.1.5 Graphical Symbols expressing instructions . 47
K.1.6 Safety information symbol . 48
K.1.6.1 Size of graphical symbols . 48
K.1.6.2 Colour of graphical symbols . 48
K.1.6.3 Arrangement of graphical symbols . 48
Annex L (informative) Significant technical changes between this document and the
previous edition EN 13138-3:2014 . 50
Annex M (normative) Test procedure for entanglement on protruding parts . 52
Bibliography . 53
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European foreword
This document (prEN 13138-3:2018) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 162
“Protective clothing including hand and arm protection and liefjackets”, the secretariat of which is held
by DIN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 13138-3:2014.
Annex L provides details of significant technical changes between this European Standard and the
previous edition EN 13138-3:2014.
EN 13138, Buoyant aids for swimming instruction, consists of the following parts 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
— Part 4: In-water performance testing of buoyant aids 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 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.
This part 1 of prEN 13138 is applicable only in connection with part 4 of prEN 13138.
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
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.
Part 4 of this European Standard deals with in-water performance testing for class B devices and
provides objective methods of measuring the lifting and turning capacity of a swimming device by
applying test manikins of various sizes. It is applicable only in connection with part 1.
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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 -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 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, 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 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.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
buoyancy
resultant upthrust of a swimming device when totally submerged in fresh water with its uppermost
part just below the water surface
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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.
Note 1 to entry: 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
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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.
Note 1 to entry: Swim seats provide safety for the user but do not guarantee protection against drowning.
Note 2 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
3.18
turning-lifting-capacity (TLC)
Turning Lifting Capacity of a swimming device is its capability to turn the user’s body into a specified
floating angle and to lift him to a level where the body floats at least just on equal level with the water
surface or above
Note 1 to entry: It is expressed as angle x between calibrated sinking angle and floating angle achieved by the
device.
3.19
sinking angle
angle to which a test manikin is intentionally calibrated when hung on its centre of gravity and
completely immersed under water
4 Classification
4.1 General
Buoyant swimming devices shall be classified according to Table 1:
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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 familiar with the water
A
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 body and to
B
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 Manikin characteristics
The characteristics given in Table 2 were chosen to ensure compliance between swim seat sizes and
manikin in all relevant test procedures.
Table 2 — Values for manikins
Age years Mass 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 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 safety reasons and to assist in supervising children when used 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 used in the water.
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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
...
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