Physical and mechanical tests (TC)
PPE

Physical and mechanical tests (TC):

laboratory tests

Performance tests for strength, durability and comfort in compliance with ISO, EN and ASTM technical standards for materials and finished products.

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HOW CERTIFICATION WORKS

Certification process: from sample to certificate

A clear 5-step process, estimated timelines, and required documents to achieve CE marking.

  • 1) Pre-assessment:
    Product and standards; category I/II/III and modules (B; C2/D). Testing plan, checklist, and timelines.
  • 2) Sample Submission:
    Representative samples + Bill of Materials (BOM), instructions, and forms. Fast-track intake.
  • 3) Testing/Verification:
    Tests according to current standards. Clear updates; targeted corrections if required.
  • 4) Reporting:
    Test and evaluation report; ready for the DoC and Technical File.
  • 5) Certification / Surveillance:
    EU Type-Examination Certificate (Module B) valid up to 5 years; annual C2 or D surveillance (Cat. III). Retain DoC and Technical File for 10 years.
Search online Physical and mechanical tests (TC)

Testing for biological safety, performance, and information for use, in line with MDR and applicable standards.

AATCC TM 8-2016

Colorfastness to crocking

AATCC TM 15-2021

Colorfastness to Perspiration

UNI 4818-26

Water vapour transmission rate

UNI 4818-9

Determination of tear force

UNI 9275

Yarn count

ISO 13937-1; EN ISO 13937-1; UNI EN ISO 13937-1

Determination of tear force using ballistic pendulum method (Elmendorf)

UNI EN ISO 13938-1, EN ISO 13938-1, ISO 13938-1

Bursting strength

ISO 9073-6, EN ISO 9073-6, UNI EN ISO 9073-6

Absorption test

ASTM D3776/D3776M-20

Determination of mass per unit area – Option C

GoreTex test method

Water wicking by capillarity

ISO 9237, EN ISO 9237, UNI EN ISO 9237

Air permeability

EN 1876-1, UNI EN 1876-1

Cold bending test

Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

For over 40 years, CIMAC has been testing and certifying safety footwear (PPE) in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and current harmonised standards (e.g., EN ISO 20345/46/47).

We cover the entire range: safety shoes, firefighter boots, chainsaw-resistant footwear, foundry and welding boots, electrically insulating boots, motorcycling footwear, and chemical protection. Clear pathways, sample checklists, and technical support through to CE marking.

Validity of Certifications and Document Retention

Retain the EU Declaration of Conformity and technical documentation for 10 years from the date the PPE is placed on the market. The EU Type-Examination Certificate (Module B) has a maximum validity of 5 years from the date of issue, unless the reference harmonised standard is revised. Module C2 and Module D are subject to annual surveillance.

We perform abrasion resistance, repeated flexion, and tensile and tear resistance tests. These tests simulate the daily wear and tear and mechanical stress to which materials (leather, fabrics, synthetics) and components are subjected. We provide you with objective data on the product’s useful life, ensuring high quality standards in the shortest possible time.

We use specialized equipment to measure the water vapor permeability and absorption/desorption of materials in contact with the body. These tests are essential to ensure thermal comfort and ergonomics, for both footwear and apparel. We validate the technical comfort performance of your products in the shortest possible time.

We conduct slip resistance tests according to rigorous international standards on various surfaces and with various lubricants. This evaluation is critical not only for PPE, but for any footwear designed for maximum user safety. We help you certify the optimal friction coefficient for your target markets in the shortest possible time.

We subject components to extreme stress through peel resistance, heel fatigue, and seam strength tests. We verify that buckles, zippers, and buttons maintain their functionality and structural integrity even after prolonged use. Our technical team analyzes the assembly strength to ensure an excellent finished product in the shortest possible time.

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