Standards and certifications for lashing straps

Ensuring the safety, compliance, and reliability of your equipment

Lashing straps are essential components for transporting and securing loads. To ensure their reliability, they must comply with strict standards defined at the European level. These regulations govern their manufacturing, strength, labeling, and use.

🔍 EN 12195-2 standard: the European reference for lashing straps

The EN 12195-2 standard is the main reference for non-lifting lashing straps (load securing and transport).
It defines the technical and safety requirements applicable to lashing systems using synthetic fiber straps.

What the standard covers:

  • Materials used:

    Straps must be made from strong synthetic fibers (polyester, polyamide, polypropylene), with precise breaking strength tolerances.

  • Safety factors:

    Each component (strap, tensioner, hook, buckle) must meet minimum values ensuring safe use.

  • Mechanical testing:

    Tensile and breaking tests are carried out to verify load capacity (LC – Lashing Capacity).

  • Mandatory marking:

    A sewn-in label on each strap must include:

    • manufacturer or brand
    • lashing capacity (LC)
    • length (lashing length)
    • material
    • EN 12195-2 standard
    • color corresponding to the material

💡 Good to know: marking is essential. A strap without a label or with illegible markings is considered non-compliant and must be removed from service.

⚙️ Other standards related to load securing and lifting

Although EN 12195-2 is the most common standard, other regulations may apply depending on the type of equipment:

  • EN 12195-1: general requirements for calculating lashing forces
  • EN 12195-3: chain lashing devices
  • EN 12195-4: steel wire lashing devices
  • EN 1492-1 / EN 1492-2: synthetic fiber lifting slings

Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Regulation (EU) 2016/425: general safety rules for work equipment and personal protective equipment

🛠️ How to ensure your lashing straps comply ?

Before each use, it is essential to check the condition and compliance of your equipment. Best practices include:

1. Check marking and traceability

  • The label must be present, readable, and complete.
  • The batch or production number ensures product traceability.
  • The “EN 12195-2” reference must be clearly indicated.L’étiquette doit être présente, lisible et complète.

2. Visually inspect the strap

  • Check for cuts, tears, abrasions, or burns.
  • Inspect stitching for damage.
  • Check hooks and tensioners for deformation, cracks, or corrosion.

3. Replace any questionable strap

  • A damaged strap or one missing its label must be immediately discarded.
  • Never attempt to repair a strap yourself.

4. Keep compliance documents

Suppliers must be able to provide an EC Declaration of Conformity. Keep these documents in your maintenance and safety records.

 

Element Requirement Reference
Main standard Synthetic fiber lashing straps EN 12195-2
Mandatory label Clear and complete marking Yes
Mechanical tests Tensile, breaking, resistance Mandatory
User inspection Visual inspection before each use Recommended
Traceability Batch number, manufacturer, CE compliance Mandatory