EN 1509:2008

Overview

EN 1509:2008 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies the functional and safety requirements for badminton playing field equipment, excluding rackets and shuttlecocks. Applicable to indoor badminton equipment for both standing and wheelchair players, this standard covers three types and four classes of equipment designed for competition and training use. The document addresses key components, including posts, nets, and fixing devices, ensuring safety, dimension accuracy, and durability for high-quality badminton infrastructure.

Key Topics

• Scope and Classification
  EN 1509:2008 applies to indoor badminton equipment, classifying it into three types based on the post anchoring method:

  • Type 1: Equipment with ground sockets
  • Type 2: Equipment with bases and ground fixings
  • Type 3: Freestanding equipment
    The four classes distinguish between competition and training setups, also covering wheelchair badminton:
  • Class A: Competition standing equipment
  • Class B: Competition wheelchair equipment
  • Class C: Training standing equipment
  • Class D: Training wheelchair equipment

• Dimensions and Design Requirements
  Strict adherence to specified net heights and court dimensions is mandated:

  • Net height at doubles side lines: 1550 mm (standing), 1400 mm (wheelchair)
  • Net height at the center: 1524 mm (standing), 1374 mm (wheelchair)
    Posts must remain vertical with minimal tilt and have no protrusions into the playing area to ensure player safety and fair play.

• Material Specifications

  • Posts: Made from steel, light metal, or synthetic materials with corrosion protection.
  • Nets: Constructed from synthetic fibres with defined mesh size and tensile strength.
  • Top Net Line: Synthetic cord or cable with high breaking resistance to withstand game tension.

• Safety Requirements
  The equipment must comply with EN 913 for general safety, focusing on stability, strength, and device design. Tensioning devices and other fixings should pose no risk and not be directed towards the court to avoid player injuries.

• Test Methods and Reporting
  Testing includes verification of structural dimensions, material resistance (net mesh and top liner), and safety device inspections. Test reports should document test conditions, equipment states, and results thoroughly for traceability and compliance verification.

• Use Instructions and Marking
  Every piece of equipment must come with clear installation, adjustment, maintenance instructions, and proper markings indicating compliance, manufacturer details, and production year.

Applications

EN 1509:2008 is essential for manufacturers, suppliers, sports facility designers, and organizers who aim to provide badminton equipment that meets European safety standards and performance benchmarks. Its practical applications include:

• Ensuring safe and standardized playing conditions in indoor badminton courts for competitive and training environments.
• Facilitating inclusive sporting opportunities by covering both standing and wheelchair badminton equipment.
• Guiding manufacturers in selecting materials, dimensions, and construction methods that comply with safety directives.
• Supporting facility managers and operators in maintaining equipment as per standardized guidelines to prolong product lifespan and ensure player protection.

Related Standards

• EN 913 – Gymnastic equipment: Provides general safety requirements and test methods applicable to badminton equipment as referenced within EN 1509 for stability and strength.
• EN ISO 1806 – Fishing nets: Specifies test methods used for determining net mesh breaking force relevant to badminton nets.
• EN ISO 2307 – Fibre ropes: Defines mechanical property testing used for the top net lines and other cordage components in badminton equipment.

By following EN 1509:2008, stakeholders ensure badminton playing field equipment meets rigorous functional, safety, and performance standards, promoting fair play and player safety throughout indoor badminton activities.