EN ISO 11393 is the current standard for chainsaw protective clothing. It progressively replaced the EN 381 series and harmonised the requirements with the international ISO system.
How the protection works
The protection works by jamming. Inside the garment are several layers of long-fibre material, usually polyester or aramid. When the chain cuts through the outer fabric it catches those fibres, which instantly wrap around the drive sprocket and stall the saw — in hundredths of a second.
Protection classes
| Class | Chain speed | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Class 0 | 16 m/s | Small, low-powered saws |
| Class 1 | 20 m/s | The most common — domestic and semi-professional |
| Class 2 | 24 m/s | Professional forestry work |
| Class 3 | 28 m/s | Heavy professional saws |
Design types (for leg protection)
- Type A
- Protection on the front only — for an operator working on the ground; lighter and cooler
- Type B
- Type A plus extended protection on the inside of the left leg
- Type C
- Full all-round protection — for arborists working aloft, where the saw can approach from any angle
Parts of the series
- 11393-2
- Trousers and leg protectors
- 11393-4
- Gloves
- 11393-5
- Gaiters
- 11393-6
- Upper body protectors
Critical care rules
The protective fibres are consumable and can be damaged invisibly. Chain oil, fuel and solvents attack them — soaked trousers lose their protection. Any cut, however small, means the garment is withdrawn immediately: the fibre pack cannot be repaired by sewing. Wash to the label only, without fabric conditioner, which makes the fibres slip.