EN 958:2006/FprA1

Overview

EN 958:2006/FprA1 is an important European Standard amendment addressing mountaineering equipment, specifically the energy absorbing systems used in klettersteig (via ferrata) climbing. This standard sets out updated safety requirements and test methods that manufacturers and users must follow to ensure the reliability and safety of energy absorbers designed for via ferrata activities. The amendment focuses on improvements related to marking requirements and manufacturer information, enhancing clarity for safe usage and maintenance.

Developed by the CEN Technical Committee CEN/TC 136, this standard amendment supports essential safety criteria under EU directives. It is widely adopted by national standardization bodies across Europe, ensuring uniform safety benchmarks for equipment used in protected climbing routes.

Key Topics

• Energy Absorbing Systems: Specifies the safety requirements and testing procedures for fall arrest devices that reduce the impact force during a fall while climbing via ferrata.

• Deployment Position: Introduces the concept and definition of the deployment position, indicating the correct arrangement of energy absorbing devices to ensure proper function during a fall.

• Visual Inspection Requirements: Mandates that energy absorbers be designed so their deployment position is easily visible for user verification before each climb.

• Marking Requirements: Adds specific marking instructions including:

  • Clear indication of the deployment position on the product.
  • Reference to the EN 958 European Standard to certify compliance.

• Manufacturer’s Information: Enhances guidelines for information manufacturers must supply with the equipment, emphasizing:

  • Explanation of all marks on the product.
  • Detailed instructions about identifying and verifying the deployment position for safe use.

• Terminology Updates: Adds new definitions such as “deployment position” to standardize terminology in documentation and training.

Applications

• Via Ferrata Climbing: Ensures climbers using energy absorbing systems on fixed-route mountain climbs benefit from tested, clearly marked, and reliable safety equipment.

• Outdoor Sports Safety Equipment Manufacturing: Guides manufacturers in designing, marking, and providing information for energy absorbers to meet legal and industry standards, fostering consumer trust.

• Climbing Training and Instruction: Assists instructors and safety personnel in teaching proper equipment inspection methods, emphasizing visual checks of deployment positions.

• Quality Control and Product Testing: Provides a reference framework for certifying bodies and labs to verify conformity of energy absorbers with international safety standards.

Related Standards

• EN 958:2006 - Original standard outlining baseline safety requirements and test methods for energy absorbing systems used in via ferrata climbing.

• Other CEN Standards for Climbing Equipment:

  • EN 12277: Safety requirements for mountaineering harnesses.
  • EN 892: Dynamic ropes for mountaineering.
  • EN 353-2: Fall arresters on a guided type fall protection system.

• EU Directives on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): EN 958 aligns with safety mandates under the PPE Directive, ensuring energy absorbing systems meet essential health and safety requirements.

Conclusion

EN 958:2006/FprA1 updates are essential for enhancing the safety and reliability of energy absorbing systems in via ferrata climbing. By refining the marking, design visualization, and manufacturer information, the standard promotes safer climbing experiences and fosters compliance among manufacturers. Whether you are a climber, instructor, or equipment producer, understanding and applying EN 958 amendments ensures adherence to internationally recognized safety criteria in the dynamic field of mountaineering and outdoor sports equipment.