Introduction
BS EN 13374:2025 marks a major revision of the 2013+A1:2018 standard for temporary edge protection systems. It resolves past ambiguities, adds stricter performance requirements, and introduces new test protocols aimed at improving fall safety across European construction sites. This guide explores the most important differences between the two versions and explains how they impact manufacturers, contractors, and exporters.
Quick View at Table
Fonctionnalité | BS EN 13374:2013+A1:2018 | BS EN 13374:2025 |
Class C Energy Requirement | 2200 J (contradicted test method) | Corrected to 3185 J |
Accidental Removal Test | Broad design guideline only | Mandatory 300 N upward force test |
Gap Tolerances (Toeboards) | ≤ 20 mm (vertical only) | ≤ 20 mm (vertical & horizontal) |
Class B Post-Impact Gaps | Not specified | No ≥ 250 mm opening post-impact |
Annex C – National Deviations | Not included | Detailed listing for UK, FI, PL, CY, IT |
Annex B – Simplified Testing | Not included | Allows cutoff at 2.5× max load |
The table above provides a quick reference, but understanding the implications of each change is crucial. Below are the detailed explanations and business impacts of each major revision.
1. Clarification of Dynamic Energy Absorption for Class C (Major Update)
Document Reference:
- 2013 standard: Clause 5.4.4 and test method 7.5.2
- 2025 standard: Clause 5.4.4 (updated), aligns with 7.5.2
Detail:
In the 2013 version, Clause 5.4.4 stated that Class C systems must absorb 2200 J of kinetic energy. However, the actual dynamic test described in Clause 7.5.2 — a 75.5 kg mass rolling 5 m down a 60° inclined plane — generates approximately 3185 J of energy. This created a contradiction between performance criteria and the required test.
BS EN 13374:2025 corrects this by updating Clause 5.4.4 to explicitly require 3185 J, bringing the requirement into alignment with the physical test setup in 7.5.2. This is not a performance increase but a correction to eliminate internal inconsistency.
Implication:
Manufacturers whose Class C systems passed the original test under 2013 likely already meet the 2025 requirement. However, documentation must now specify 3185 J to remain valid.
2. New Static Load Test for Accidental Component Removal (Clause 6.3.8)
Document Reference:
- 2013 standard: Clause 5.1.1 (non-specific)
- 2025 standard: Clause 6.3.8
Detail:
The 2013 version mentioned broadly that components should be designed to avoid accidental removal but provided no test method or quantifiable requirement.
BS EN 13374:2025 introduces a dedicated test (Clause 6.3.8) for “accidental removal,” requiring each key component (e.g., posts, guardrails, toeboards) to resist an upward force of 300 N. Alternatively, if they are designed to detach, the system must allow at least 100 mm of vertical travel before release.
UK Exception:
Annex C in the 2025 version states that UK Work at Height Regulations prohibit the 100 mm tolerance. UK-compliant systems must “reasonably prevent” any such movement.
Implication:
Manufacturers must now verify that components—particularly those relying on gravity or friction fits—meet this resistance or incorporate locking features. This change introduces a clear and testable benchmark for a previously vague requirement.
3. Tighter Gap Limits (Toeboards & Post-Impact Gaps)
Document Reference:
- 2013 standard: Clause 5.1.5
- 2025 standard: Clauses 5.1.5 and 7.5.1.5
Detail:
The 2013 version only limited the vertical gap below the toeboard to 20 mm. The 2025 version now also limits horizontal gaps between segmented toeboards to 20 mm.
Additionally, a new requirement in Clause 7.5.1.5 mandates that after Class B dynamic testing (1100 J impact), no gaps may exist in the system that would allow a 250 mm sphere to pass through.
Implication:
Designs using multiple toeboard segments must ensure their joints are tightly toleranced. Class B systems must be structurally robust enough to resist deformation during impact that would create hazardous openings.
4. Annex C – National Deviations
Document Reference:
- 2025 standard only: Informative Annex C
Detail:
Annex C (new in 2025) summarizes mandatory deviations imposed by individual national safety regulations across Europe:
- Finland: Requires guardrail posts and top rails to withstand 1.0 kN point load (vs. EN standard of 0.3 kN).
- Cyprus & Poland: Demand a minimum guardrail height of 1.1 m (standard EN height is 1.0 m).
- ROYAUME-UNI: Prohibits the 100 mm movement tolerance in accidental removal tests (see Clause 6.3.8).
- Italy: Only accepts systems compliant with national Legislative Decree 81/08.
Implication:
CE marking alone no longer guarantees full market access. Manufacturers and exporters must now adapt systems to each country’s stricter local rules. One-size-fits-all products may no longer be viable for pan-European distribution.
5. Annex B – Simplified Testing Method
Document Reference:
- 2025 standard only: Informative Annex B, Clause B.1
Detail:
In the 2013 version, systems were required to be tested until “identifiable failure,” often requiring full structural collapse — a costly and equipment-intensive process.
BS EN 13374:2025 introduces a cost-saving measure in Annex B.1: if a system withstands a load equal to 2.5× the required maximum without showing signs of failure, further loading is unnecessary.
Implication:
Well-overdesigned systems with generous safety margins can now avoid destructive testing. This reduces time, lab costs, and test bench limitations — especially beneficial for modular systems with proven strength characteristics.
What You Need to Do Now
For Manufacturers
Systems must be redesigned or verified to meet the updated static test under Clause 6.3.8. This includes integrating locking mechanisms that prevent upward dislodgement of components like posts and guardrails. Additionally, Class C product documentation must be revised to declare compliance with the corrected 3185 J energy absorption requirement. Systems that exceed strength margins should apply the simplified Annex B protocol to reduce test costs.
For Contractors
When sourcing EPS, ensure that toeboard assemblies do not exceed 20 mm in horizontal or vertical gaps, and verify that Class B systems retain structural integrity post-impact. Review supplier declarations to confirm alignment with new testing outcomes and national deviations.
For Exporters and Distributors
Use Annex C as a compliance checklist for each destination market. For example, ensure products for Finland can meet 1.0 kN loading, or that products for Cyprus and Poland meet the 1.1 m guardrail height requirement. UK-bound products must completely avoid the 100 mm vertical travel allowance for accidental removal. Regional adaptation is now essential for CE/UKCA conformity.
Summary: A Clearer, Stricter, More Practical Standard
While this article highlights the key changes, it’s important to understand that BS EN 13374:2025 spans a comprehensive set of technical, structural, and regulatory requirements that extend far beyond this overview. The full document contains extensive specifications that professionals must adhere to for compliance, product safety, and certification.
As edge protection system (EPS) specialists focused on production and supply, we support construction buyers, project developers, and equipment distributors in sourcing EN 13374-compliant solutions. If your project or procurement pipeline requires certified systems for use in EU, UK, or other international markets, we’re here to help streamline your sourcing with ready-to-manufacture solutions built to the latest specifications.
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