What is BS EN 17409 about?
BS EN 17409 discusses surfaces for sports areas. BS EN 17409 focuses on synthetic turn infills. In addition to choosing the turf, another important decision is choosing the performance infill layer. This performance infill layer is usually formed with a sand stabilization layer in combination with a granulate that adds additional sport-technical properties to the system. Since a poor quality infill can cause problems in the field, quality checks need to be in place.
BS EN 17409 specifies the minimum procedures for the sampling of performance infills used within synthetic turf surfaces to verify compliance with toxicology, environmental and performance regulations, and standards. The procedures specified are suitable for all forms of infill.
Who is BS EN 17409 for?
BS EN 17409 on surfaces for sports areas is useful for:
- Manufacturers of turf and infills
- Sports federations
- Test laboratories
- Sports facilities
- Stadiums
- Government authorities
- Sporting commission officials
Why should you use BS EN 17409?
The state of the turf can impact the outcome of a sporting activity. In addition, the quality of the performance infill layer is equally important. Ensuring that these are in top condition is important for not just the outcome, but also for the physical condition of the players involved. Good quality performance infill ensures that the players' shoes have a good grip and can also reduce the strain on muscles and joints by acting as a cushion along with maximizing sliding characteristics. There are various options for the infill layer, and each infill has its specific characteristics.
Sampling is used to test the infill material quality. The method of sampling employed is designed and controlled to ensure that contamination of the increment, lot, sample, test portion or test sample cannot occur.
Four sampling procedures are specified in BS EN 17409:
- Method 1 specifies how to take samples during the production of the infill material
- Method 2 specifies how to take samples from big bags delivered to the site
- Method 3 specifies how to take samples from small bags delivered to the site
- Method 4 specifies a procedure for taking samples from a synthetic turf (example- sports, recreational or landscaping surface)
