What are EN tests?
EN testing involves evaluating products in accordance with European Norm (EN) standards, which are established by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This testing is essential for obtaining various certifications necessary for selling personal protective equipment (PPE) in Europe, such as CE and UKCA marks. Additionally, the UIAA certifications also require compliance with EN testing. At Gipfel, we ensure that our PPE products are tested to meet at least the EN standards, thereby confirming that they fulfill the minimum safety requirements.
Why EN standards?
EN standards are the result of extensive research and development by industry experts and are recognized globally, making them more widely accepted than many other standards, such as Indian Standards (IS). The testing process is carried out by authorized notified bodies, primarily located in Europe and Asia, where products intended for certification are sent for evaluation.
What happens during and after testing ?
During the EN testing process, laboratories test several samples of the product according to standardized EN tests. Then they review test reports and quality assurance procedures to ensure compliance with necessary certifications like CE, UKCA, and UIAA. Following this assessment, an application for certification is submitted to the relevant governing body, resulting in the issuance of a certificate.
Why we choose to get certifications while many don’t?
This rigorous procedure is crucial for ensuring the safety of our products. While in-house testing can provide a level of quality assurance, obtaining certifications from a recognized notified body offers an additional layer of confidence for our customers and aligns us with international manufacturing standards.
The UIAA
We take pride in being the first manufacturer of climbing equipment in India that holds certification from the UIAA, Switzerland. Our products adhere to the international standards set forth by the 89/686/EEC directive for Personal Protective Equipment, ensuring that each item is meticulously designed and rigorously tested to meet the stringent requirements established by both the UIAA and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). To maintain the highest quality standards, we are supported by CE 11A/11B certifications from EU-based third-party notified bodies authorized by the UIAA to conduct quality control assessments.
The UIAA, headquartered in Switzerland, is the sole global authority responsible for developing international standards for climbing and mountaineering equipment. These standards are crucial for ensuring that equipment meets essential criteria for quality, safety, reliability, and effectiveness, reflecting a consensus from a wide range of stakeholders. The UIAA’s Safety Labels are awarded to equipment that successfully passes testing according to these rigorous standards, signifying that the product meets the highest international benchmarks for climbing and mountaineering gear.
Certificates
