Certification mark for trekking poles
Scope:
The certification mark applies to trekking, hiking and walking poles. They can be made from various materials, such as carbon or aluminium.
Basis of certification:
The certification mark is awarded within the framework of voluntary testing and certification. The test programme developed by TÜV SÜD defines the requirements and test methods which trekking poles of variable length (telescopic poles) must fulfil to be awarded the special certification mark with statements on holding force, torsion-resistant locking mechanism and deformation stability.
In addition to these particularly emphasised characteristics, there are further requirements relating to mechanical safety, design, instructions for use and labelling.
Key words of the certification mark:
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LEKI Super Lock
This is how LEKI, the manufacturer, describes the model-specific locking System.
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Holding force up to 140 k
The system to adjust the length of the certified product withstands a minimum holding force of 1400 N, which corresponds to a weight of 140 kilograms. During the test, the force is introduced to the pole in axial direction.
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Deformation stability
The design of the pole certified by TÜV SÜD ensures that no forces or torques (e.g. the user's body weight) arising during intended use can cause plastic deformation or breaking of the pole.
During the test, the force is applied eccentrically to produce defined Deformation.
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Torsion-resistant locking mechanism
Opening of the telescopic connection by a quarter-turn will reduce the holding force of the certified telescopic pole by no more than 30 percent. At the same time, the system will still have a minimum holding force of 1100 N, which corresponds to a weight of 110 kilograms.
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Type tested
The voluntary certification mark with the statement “Type tested” is issued for products and components, indicating that the product was tested and certified by the independent third-party organisation of TÜV SÜD Product Service for conformity with the essential technical safety requirements. The certification criteria vary depending on the products in question.
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Production monitored
Periodic surveillance of the manufacturer of a product constitutes the basic premise for certification that includes the award of a certification mark. Certification always requires product testing and regular factory inspections.
As a third-party expert organisation, TÜV SÜD Product Service verifies that the manufacturer is able to maintain consistent quality in line with the requirements throughout high-volume production and has established the necessary quality system, including incoming goods inspections, lists of materials and finished product testing.
In addition, calibration of the necessary measuring and monitoring equipment must be ensured. Surveillance and/or monitoring covers the testing of safety-critical components and other materials used. If unauthorised changes are made to the product, certificate validity will expire and the TÜV SÜD certification mark may no longer be used.
