SIST EN 596:1996

Overview

EN 596:1995 (adopted as SIST EN 596:1996) is a CEN standard that specifies a test method for assessing the resistance of timber-framed wall panels to impact by a soft body striking the wall sheathing. The standard defines a repeatable laboratory procedure to evaluate how framed timber walls respond to non-rigid impact events, helping manufacturers, designers and regulators quantify damage performance and durability under impact loading.

Key topics

• Scope and purpose: Defines the objective of the soft-body impact test - to determine the resistance of timber-frame wall panels to impacts on the sheathing.
• Test specimen requirements: Describes the characteristics of the timber framed wall panel to be tested (orientation, construction details and relevant components such as sheathing and fixings) as applicable to reproducible comparison.
• Impactor description: Specifies the use of a soft-body impactor (a deformable mass) to simulate realistic struck conditions rather than rigid impactors.
• Test set-up and procedure: Covers mounting, positioning, and striking locations on the sheathing, plus the sequence of impacts needed to assess performance.
• Instrumentation and measurement: Includes requirements for observing and recording the test (visual inspection, damage extent, any instrumentation to measure impact conditions).
• Assessment criteria: Provides guidance on how to evaluate and report damage (penetration, tearing, deformation, and loss of function) so results can be compared between products or constructions.
• Reporting: Details the information to be recorded in a test report so results are reproducible and interpretable.

Applications

EN 596 is directly useful for:

• Timber-frame wall manufacturers validating product robustness and improving sheathing and fixing systems.
• Independent testing laboratories performing standardized impact tests for certification and quality control.
• Structural and façade engineers assessing suitability of wall systems in applications where soft impacts (e.g., human impact, falling objects, maintenance operations) are a concern.
• Regulators and building authorities referencing a harmonized test method when specifying performance requirements in codes or procurement.
• Product development teams comparing materials, fixings and protective layers to reduce damage from common non-rigid impacts.

Related standards

• EN 596 is part of the family of timber structures test methods published by CEN and adopted by national bodies (e.g., SIST EN 596:1996). Users typically consult other CEN standards on timber design, durability and structural testing for a complete compliance and performance assessment.

Keywords: EN 596:1995, timber structures test methods, soft body impact test, timber framed walls, sheathing impact resistance, CEN standard, wall panel impact testing.