Overview
EN ISO 20957-8:2017 (ISO 20957-8:2017) defines additional specific safety requirements and test methods for stationary training equipment types: steppers, stairclimbers and climbers. It applies to machines used from a standing or sitting position and is intended to be read in conjunction with ISO 20957‑1 (the general safety requirements). The standard covers equipment within classes S and H, and includes extra provisions for accuracy class A machines.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard supplements ISO 20957‑1 by addressing hazards and performance aspects unique to steppers, stairclimbers and climbers. Major technical topics include:
- Classification and scope - definitions of stepper, stairclimber and climber types and applicable equipment classes (S, H).
- External construction & accessible surfaces - protection against squeeze and shear points and limits on surface temperatures.
- Intrinsic loading and structural integrity - design requirements to withstand operational loads.
- Handrails / handlebars - requirements for fixed and movable grips, seat handlebars and backrests.
- Footplatforms and stairs - anti-slip, geometry and clearance considerations for safe stepping on/off.
- Stopping systems - requirements for manual and automatic stopping to reduce entrapment risk.
- Endurance and freewheel - durability tests and behavior during power interruption or coasting.
- Accuracy class A - additional requirements and testing for high-accuracy measurement/functionality.
- Seated steppers - extra requirements for seats, handlebars and backrests.
- Test methods and reporting - dimensional checks, visual and tactile inspection, temperature testing, intrinsic loading tests, handrail and friction tests, endurance testing, stepping-on/off and stopping-system tests, plus a required test report format.
Practical applications and users
EN ISO 20957-8:2017 is practical for professionals involved in the design, manufacture, testing, certification and procurement of fitness equipment:
- Manufacturers and product designers - to ensure compliance and incorporate required safety features.
- Testing and certification laboratories - to perform the standardized test methods and prepare conformity reports.
- Regulatory bodies and procurement teams - to evaluate equipment safety for public and commercial facilities.
- Facility operators and fitness chains - to specify safe, compliant steppers and stairclimbers for gyms and rehabilitation settings.
- Safety engineers and risk assessors - for hazard analysis and verification against harmonized safety criteria.
Related standards
- ISO 20957-1 - General safety requirements for stationary training equipment (mandatory companion document).
- Supersedes: EN 957-8:1998 (earlier edition).
Keywords: EN ISO 20957-8:2017, ISO 20957-8:2017, stationary training equipment standard, stepper safety, stairclimber safety, climber equipment testing, fitness equipment safety, CEN standard.