Overview - ISO 11393-6:2018 (Protective clothing for chainsaw users - upper body protectors)
ISO 11393-6:2018 specifies performance requirements and test methods for upper body protectors intended to reduce the risk of cutting injuries from hand-held chainsaws. The standard covers design, sampling and pre-treatment, measurement of protective coverage, apparatus and procedures for cutting-resistance testing, ergonomic performance tests, marking and manufacturer information. Annex A provides guidance on chainsaw use and selection of appropriate upper body protectors.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Performance requirements: general safety, innocuousness (no harmful effects from materials), sizing and ergonomic features to ensure practical wearability and protection.
- Protective coverage: defined minimum areas for front, rear and sleeve designs (multiple jacket designs A and B), including optional collar coverage and rules for fastenings and joins.
- Resistance to cutting: test methods and apparatus to assess how the protective material behaves on chain contact - including classification according to chain speed.
- Sampling and pre-treatment: procedures for cleaning and pre-treating garments prior to testing (including a 60 °C spin-drying pre-treatment when applicable) to evaluate dimensional and other changes caused by maintenance.
- Dimensional and durability testing: methods to measure dimensional change and other alterations after cleaning or thermal/spin pre-treatment.
- Ergonomic testing: practical performance tests to evaluate mobility, surface conditions and wearer comfort.
- Attachment and closure strength: tests for secure fixing of padding and durability of closures (zips, buttons, fasteners).
- Marking and information: mandatory labelling, pictogram and manufacturer-supplied information for correct selection and use.
Practical applications - who uses ISO 11393-6:2018
- PPE manufacturers developing upper body protectors for forestry, arboriculture, utility work and landscaping.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies conducting standardized cutting-resistance and ergonomic tests.
- Procurement and safety managers selecting compliant chainsaw protective clothing for field crews.
- Regulators and auditors assessing workplace PPE compliance and conformity with international test methods.
- Designers and R&D teams optimizing the balance of protection, comfort and durability in chainsaw PPE.
Related standards and guidance
- Part of the ISO 11393 series on protective clothing for hand-held chainsaw use - consult the ISO website for other parts (head, legs, gloves, etc.).
- Annex A of ISO 11393-6 provides user guidance on safe chainsaw operation and protector selection.
Keywords: ISO 11393-6:2018, protective clothing, chainsaw safety, upper body protectors, test methods, performance requirements, PPE, ergonomic testing.