EN 14404:2024 updated standard for knee protection

In many professions, knee protection is essential, especially where prolonged kneeling is part of the job. You see this in sectors such as construction, installation and maintenance. The EN 14404 standard sets out the requirements and test methods that knee protection, as personal protective equipment (PPE), must meet.

Knee protection according to EN 14404

EN 14404 is a European standard for knee protection for kneeling work. It focuses on reducing strain and injury to the knee, for example from contact with hard or uneven surfaces. The requirements and test methods are set out in the EN 14404 standard and forms the basis for assessment.

The previous version of the standard (EN 14404:2004 + A1:2010) was a single document. In 2024, this was split into several parts. As a result, there is now a clearer distinction between different types of knee protection, such as standalone knee pads, integrated solutions in workwear and kneeling mats. This makes it easier to assess which type of protection is suitable for each situation.

In 2024, the standard was updated. There is now more focus on the combination of knee protection and workwear, and the classification and assessment criteria have also been revised. In practice, this has a noticeable impact on how knee protection is used.

What this means for use and fit

With the update to EN 14404, the focus shifts from just the level of protection to the overall system in which knee protection is used.

Fit now plays a bigger role than it did before. One-size-fits-all is no longer the default choice in many cases. Instead, different sizes are increasingly used to ensure a better fit to the body.

There is also more focus on the balance between comfort and protection, particularly during prolonged kneeling. Factors such as pressure distribution, stability and positioning determine how effective knee protection is. Audits are also placing greater focus on product specifications and the justification behind selected combinations.

Where EN 14404 is applied in practice

You will mainly see this standard in sectors where kneeling is part of the daily work. For example, construction sites, technical environments, maintenance work and industrial environments.

Knee protection is also important in situations where prolonged kneeling is combined with other risks, such as moisture, dirt or chemical exposure. In these cases, audits and inspections focus on the PPE being used, as well as how well it matches the work being done.

An important change is that workwear with knee pad pockets is no longer considered separately from the knee protection itself. Under the new standard, this combination is treated as one system. This means that not only the knee pad, but also the trousers worn with it, are part of the assessment.

The focus is on how the combination performs, including fit, positioning and level of protection. This is because, in practice, knee protection is rarely used on its own.

Compliance and audits

Audits and inspections mainly focus on how knee protection has been selected and applied. This includes product specifications, certifications and combinations of products. Knee protection classified as PPE must comply with the European PPE Regulation (EU 2016/425) and carry a CE marking.

The new standard places greater emphasis on the system as a whole. Documentation must demonstrate that the combination of workwear and knee protection used complies with EN 14404:2024. This requires clear product information and proper alignment between different components.

Relationship with PPE and hygiene products

In many situations, knee protection is used alongside other PPE and workwear, depending on the working environment. This includes workwear with knee pad pockets, additional protective equipment and situations where hygiene or product integrity is important.

In sectors where contamination is a concern, the material of the knee protection may also be relevant.