CE-marked equipment - Re. Fencing FAQ (part 2)

I'd like to suggest some extra text to describe the "CE" marked kit that
is now appearing in the shops here in Britain. I find quite a few of
our club members get confused about it. Perhaps a new section to follow
this one ...

>
> 2.1.1 FIE Uniforms
>
> FIE-certified (800 N) uniforms are fashioned from special fabrics
> such as kevlar, Startex, or ballistic nylon. Some uniforms (in
> particular, older uniforms of kevlar construction) offer partial
> 800N coverage in vital areas with lighter 350N fabrics used
> elsewhere. Full-coverage 800N uniforms are now the norm in
> FIE clothing.
>
> The rules for FIE 'A' level competition demand FIE jacket
> and pants. As of April 1, 1995, an additional 800N plastron is
> required. CFF and USFA competitions have less stringent uniform
> requirments.
>
> FIE clothing generally provides the highest degree of quality
> and protection available. It is strongly recommended for serious
> competitors, and for anyone else concerned about their safety.
> Although considerably more expensive than practice gear, many
> fencers find it well worth the price.
>
> Kevlar clothing should be washed with mild detergent-free soap,
> and no bleach. Hang dry away from sources of ultraviolet light
> (especially direct sunlight). Store in a dark place (a closet or
> your fencing bag, for example).
>

2.1.x CE-marked Clothing

Some clothing intended for sale in Europe has a "CE" mark to indicate
that it complies with a "CEN" standard. There are two standards, "CEN
1" and "CEN 2". CEN 2 is the higher level, similar to FIE levels at the
time of writing. CEN 1 is a minimum level.

CE-marked (or FIE-marked) clothing may effectively become mandatory in
certain countries, for club use as well as for local and national
competitions. The timescales and the minimum standards for particular
activities will be set by the governing body in the country concerned.

For example, the British Fencing Association has announced that, from
January 2006, all fencers using adult-sized electric equipment must wear
jackets, trousers and masks meeting at least the CEN 1 standard, and
plastrons meeting at least the CEN 2 or FIE standards. There are
reduced requirements for children and for non-electric equipment, and
increased requirements for elite, A-grade and veterans competitions.

Existing clothing and equipment may well meet or exceed the CEN 1
requirements. There is therefore no point buying new kit if your
existing kit is in good condition and you fence only in countries where
your governing body does not require it.

However, the CE mark may not be retrospectively applied once the item
has left the factory. So you will have to replace the old clothing if
your governing body mandates CE-marked clothing in the future; and you
would obviously not want to buy clothing without a CE mark if you will
need it in the future.


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Comments?

Tim S.