De NEN-EN 14974 standard is a European safety standard that applies specifically to PumpTracks, skateparks, and similar sports and recreational facilities. This standard sets strict requirements for the design, construction, materials, and safety of PumpTracks. In the Netherlands, all PumpTracks must comply with both the NEN-EN 14974 standard and the WAS legislation (Amusement and Playground Equipment Act) to be used legally.
What does the NEN-EN 14974 standard mean for PumpTracks?
De NEN-EN 14974 standard is a European safety standard specifically developed for skateboard, inline skate, and cycling sports facilities, including PumpTracks. This standard replaces older national standards and ensures uniform safety requirements within Europe.
The standard distinguishes itself from general playground equipment standards because PumpTracks have different risks and usage patterns than traditional playgrounds. Whereas ordinary playground equipment is primarily aimed at children, PumpTracks are used by all ages with various vehicles, such as bicycles, skateboards, and scooters.
In the Netherlands, this European standard has been implemented as NEN-EN 14974, with the Netherlands Standardization Institute (NEN) adopting the standard. This means that all Asphalt PumpTracks in the Netherlands must meet these specific requirements before they can be put into use.
What safety requirements does NEN-EN 14974 impose on PumpTracks?
The NEN-EN 14974 standard states concrete technical requirements to material usage, construction, track design, and safety distances. These requirements are specifically tailored to the dynamic movements and speeds that users make on PumpTracks.
The most important safety criteria are:
| Safety aspect | Requirement according to NEN-EN 14974 |
|---|---|
| Material specifications | Durable, weather-resistant materials with good grip |
| Track design | Gradual transitions, safe slopes and bends |
| Safety distances | At least 2 meters of free space around the track |
| Accessibility | Clear entrances and exits, clear track layout |
| Signaling | Rules of use and warnings in visible places |
These requirements ensure that PumpTracks can be safely used by various target groups, from children on balance bikes to experienced BMX riders. Wearing a helmet is mandatory on Velosolutions PumpTracks. View our completed projects to see how these safety requirements are applied in practice.
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How does the certification process for PumpTracks work?
The program certification process For PumpTracks according to NEN-EN 14974, this consists of multiple steps, from design to final inspection. This process takes an average of 2 to 3 months and requires collaboration between various parties.
The process is as follows:
- Design phase: Technical drawings according to NEN-EN 14974 specifications
- Design approval: Assessment by a certified inspection body
- Construction phase: Implementation according to the approved design with quality controls
- Final approval: Inspection of the completed PumpTrack by an independent inspector
- Certificate Issuing: Official certificate of commissioning
Various parties are involved in this process: the designer, the contractor, the inspection body, and often the municipality as the client. All documents, such as technical drawings, material certificates, and inspection reports, must be carefully preserved for future inspections.
What is the difference between WAS legislation and NEN-EN 14974?
De WAS legislation The Amusement and Playground Equipment Act (Wet Attractie- en Speeltoestellen) is Dutch legislation that determines which facilities must be inspected, while NEN-EN 14974 is the technical standard that prescribes how PumpTracks must be designed and constructed.
The difference is in the function:
- WAS legislation: Determines the legal obligation for inspection and maintenance
- NEN-EN 14974: Provides the technical specifications for safe design and construction
In practice, both work together. WAS legislation requires municipalities to have PumpTracks inspected, while NEN-EN 14974 is the standard against which inspections are performed. A PumpTrack may not be used without a valid certificate and compliance with both regulations.
For municipalities, this means that they must not only ensure a PumpTrack that complies with NEN-EN 14974, but also regular inspections and maintenance, as prescribed in the WAS legislation. This includes annual visual inspections and more extensive inspections every three years.
How Velosolutions helps with NEN-EN 14974 certification
We guide the full certification process From start to finish, we take care of everything for you as a municipality or recreation park. From the initial design to the final inspection and annual maintenance, we handle everything in accordance with applicable standards.
Our support includes:
- Design according to NEN-EN 14974 specifications by certified specialists
- Support for the inspection process with permanent inspection partners
- Implementation by experienced teams familiar with the standard
- Complete documentation and certification for commissioning
- Annual inspection and maintenance in accordance with WAS legislation, also available via a maintenance contract.
- Five-year warranty on all delivered PumpTracks
Thanks to our years of experience, we know exactly the challenges municipalities and recreation parks face during certification. We ensure that your PumpTrack not only meets all requirements but also functions optimally for your users.
Read more about us and discover why more than a hundred municipalities trust us for their PumpTrack. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation about certification according to NEN-EN 14974.
