EN 12503-2:2016

Overview

EN 12503-2:2016 - Sports mats: Part 2 - Pole vault and high jump mats, safety requirements (CEN) sets safety and performance requirements for three types of landing mats used in schools, training and competition. The standard focuses on the mat’s ability to absorb impact and on the anti-slip behaviour of the mat base. It references specific test methods for measuring shock absorption and base friction to ensure consistent, measurable safety performance.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and classification
  • Covers three mat design types: Type 9 (high jump - schools/training), Type 10 (high jump - competition) and Type 11 (pole vault).
  • Notes that international official competition requirements may be governed by separate international regulations.
• Shock absorption
  • Performance requirements for impact attenuation (shock absorption), percentage deflection and resilience are defined.
  • Test method: measured in accordance with EN 12503-4:2016 (Determination of shock absorption).
  • The standard includes specified and some recommended values for peak deceleration, deflection and resilience appropriate to each mat type.
• Base friction (anti-slip)
  • Specifies anti-slip (base friction) characteristics to reduce mat displacement during use.
  • Test method: measured in accordance with EN 12503-5:2001 (Determination of the base friction).
  • Some mat types require a minimum friction value unless mechanical fixing prevents movement.
• Marking and traceability
  • Mats must be legibly and indelibly marked with: the standard number EN 12503-2, the mat type number, manufacturer/retailer/importer name and year of manufacture, and indication of the top surface (if not obvious).

Applications and users

• Manufacturers and designers of athletic landing mats - to design products that meet European safety performance metrics.
• Purchasing/specification teams at schools, clubs, training centers and stadiums - to select appropriate mat types for intended use (school, training, competition).
• Sports facility managers and event organizers - to ensure installed mats meet anti-slip and shock-absorption safety expectations.
• Test laboratories and conformity assessors - to perform EN 12503-4 and EN 12503-5 tests and document compliance.
• Standards and safety officers involved in athletics equipment procurement and certification.

Related standards

• EN 12503-1:2013 - Gymnastic mats, safety requirements
• EN 12503-3:2001 - Judo mats, safety requirements
• EN 12503-4:2016 - Determination of shock absorption (normative test method referenced)
• EN 12503-5:2001 - Determination of the base friction (normative test method referenced)
• Parts 6–7 cover top friction and static stiffness test methods

Keywords: EN 12503-2:2016, sports mats, pole vault mats, high jump mats, safety requirements, shock absorption, base friction, mat classification, CEN standards.