European Standard · Protective Clothing
EN 381 – Chainsaw Protective Clothing
EN 381 is a series of European standards specifying requirements and test methods for protective clothing worn by chainsaw operators, including protective trousers, gaiters, gloves and jackets designed to reduce injury from moving chainsaw chains.
1. Scope
EN 381 covers garments containing chainsaw-resistant padding or fabric layers designed to jam a moving chain and stop it quickly on contact. Different parts of the standard address protective trousers, gaiters/leggings, and other garment types, each classified by the design type and speed protection class.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Often combined with head protection meeting EN 397 and eye/face protection meeting EN 166 as part of complete chainsaw operator PPE.
- Built on the general clothing requirements of EN ISO 13688.
- Hand protection for chainsaw work should meet relevant cut-resistance requirements alongside standard glove standards such as EN 388.
3. Key Requirements & Marking
Garments are classified by design type (Type A, B or C, indicating which areas of the leg are protected) and by speed class (Class 0, 1, 2 or 3), indicating the maximum chain speed the garment is designed to protect against. Higher classes correspond to protection at higher chain speeds.
4. Testing Overview
Testing involves feeding a moving chainsaw chain at a specified speed into the garment sample mounted on a test rig, measuring whether the protective layers successfully jam the chain before it penetrates through to a simulated leg surface, along with general fabric strength and durability tests.
5. Selection Guide
Select the design type and speed class matching your chainsaw’s chain speed and the type of cutting work performed; professional forestry work with high-powered saws typically requires higher speed classes than light garden pruning tasks.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Inspect protective padding regularly for compression, cuts or embedded debris that could reduce stopping performance
- Replace garments immediately after any chain contact, even without visible penetration
- Follow washing instructions carefully, as some protective linings can be damaged by incorrect laundering
- Store away from sharp objects, solvents and prolonged direct sunlight
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What do the speed classes mean on chainsaw protective clothing?
The class number indicates the maximum chain speed, in metres per second, the garment is designed and tested to protect against, with higher classes offering protection at higher chain speeds.
What is the difference between Type A, B and C chainsaw trousers?
The types indicate which areas of the leg are covered by protective material, with Type A covering the front only, and Type C offering all-round protection.
Should chainsaw trousers be replaced after chain contact?
Yes, protective padding can be compromised even without visible damage, so garments should be replaced or professionally inspected after any chain contact.
Do chainsaw gloves need separate certification?
Yes, chainsaw-resistant gloves are tested separately and should be marked accordingly, distinct from general mechanical risk gloves under EN 388.
Is chainsaw protective clothing waterproof?
Not necessarily; waterproofing is a separate feature and not guaranteed by chainsaw protection certification alone, so check the specific product specification.