EN 13087-8:2000

Overview

EN 13087-8:2000 is a CEN test-method standard that specifies how to assess the electrical properties of protective helmets. It is part of the EN 13087 series of test methods and is intended to provide standardized procedures for verifying that helmets meet the electrical-performance requirements defined in the applicable helmet performance standards. This standard supports objective evaluation of helmet safety where electrical hazards are a concern.

Key Topics

This part of EN 13087 focuses on standardized test methods and related technical requirements including:

• Electrical insulation assessment of helmet shell and non-conductive components
• Surface and volume resistance measurements to identify conductive pathways
• Continuity and earthing checks for helmets with conductive fittings or integrated earthing features
• Leakage current and dielectric behaviour under defined test conditions
• Test specimen preparation and conditioning to ensure repeatable results
• Instrumentation, test setup and reporting requirements to maintain traceability and comparability between laboratories

The standard defines how to prepare samples, the environmental conditions for testing, and the required documentation so that results can be used to support compliance claims in the appropriate helmet standard.

Applications

EN 13087-8 is practical and relevant to a range of stakeholders involved in head protection and electrical safety:

• Helmet manufacturers - for design verification, production quality checks and demonstrating compliance with electrical-safety requirements
• Independent testing laboratories - to perform accredited type-testing and batch testing of helmets for electrical properties
• Certification bodies and notified bodies - to assess conformity with helmet performance standards that reference electrical properties
• Safety engineers and procurement officers - to specify helmets suitable for environments with electrical hazards (e.g., electrical utilities, construction, maintenance)
• Regulatory authorities and compliance teams - to harmonize safety assessments and document test evidence

Related Standards

• EN 13087-8:2000 should be used alongside the appropriate helmet performance standards that define required electrical performance levels.
• It is part of the broader EN 13087 series of test methods and complements industry-specific helmet standards and CEN guidance for head protective equipment.

By applying EN 13087-8 test methods, organizations can produce consistent, reproducible data on helmet electrical performance-helping to reduce electrical risk and ensure that head protection is suitable for use in electrically hazardous environments.

Keywords: EN 13087-8:2000, protective helmets, electrical properties, helmet test methods, CEN standard, helmet electrical testing, head protective equipment.