Overview

Ice hockey is a high speed, collision sport in which there is a risk of injury. The object of this part of ISO 10256 is to specify general requirements and to serve as the basis for particular standards for ice hockey, taking into account the risks inherent in participating in the sport, many of which cannot be eliminated by protective equipment. By playing this sport, participants accept the risk of serious injury, paralysis and/or death. The intention of protective equipment for use in ice hockey is to reduce the frequency and severity of localized injuries to that part of the body for which the protector is intended. The protective function is intended to distribute and dampen the force of impact and to counteract the penetration of objects applied to the protector, and in the case of neck protectors, reduce the risk of lacerations. To achieve the performance of which it is capable, and to ensure stability while worn, the protective equipment need to be as closely fitting as possible, consistent with comfort. In use, it is essential that protectors are securely fastened, properly fitted and adjusted according to manufacturer’s instructions. SC 5 is aware that specifications for the performance of protective equipment are required in order to reduce the risk of injury in ice hockey. A goal of the subcommittee is to promote the use of better materials and/or constructions as they become available to meet the future requirements of the sport of ice hockey. SC 5 is also aware that in order to provide for comfort, correct fitting and use, and in accordance with the PPE Directive of the European Union (Council Directive 89/686/EEC), protective equipment intended for ice hockey need to be as light as practicable while providing appropriate performance characteristics that meet the demands of the sport. Proper education in the proper use and fitting of protective equipment is critical to its performance. Proper enforcement of the rules of play and consistent officiating are also essential for best performance of the protective equipment in reducing the risk of injury. This part of ISO 10256 is to be used in conjunction with other collateral standards in the ISO 10256 series. This part of ISO 10256 specifies general requirements for head, face, neck and body protectors (hereafter referred to as protectors) for use in ice hockey. This part of ISO 10256 is intended only for protectors used for ice hockey. Requirements are given for the following: a) terms and definitions; b) innocuousness; c) ergonomics; d) test report; e) permanent markings; f) information for users. In the ISO 10256 series, collateral standards specify performance requirements for protectors for use in ice hockey and are intended to be read in conjunction with this part of ISO 10256. The responsible German standardization committee is Working Committee NA 112-04-02 AA "Sportschutzhelme" ("Sports protective helmets") at the Sports Equipment Standards Committee (NASport).

Document: references other documents

Responsible national committee

NA 112-04-02 AA - Sports protective helmets  

Responsible european committee

CEN/TC 158 - Head protection