Compression Garments
SMTL have been testing compression hosiery for the Welsh NHS and industry for over 30 years. Currently SMTL are the only laboratory in the UK accredited by UKAS to test the performance/compliance of compression hosiery to British Standard BS 661210.
The standard specifies requirements for garments that are designed to exert graduated compression on the legs while walking or standing. It includes tests for compression the durability of compression following repeated washing, stiffness, sizing and labelling. The standard has a performance requirement for the following product types:
- Graduated Compression Hosiery – garments exerting pressures in the range of 14 – 35+ mmHg at the ankle
- Anti-Embolism Hosiery – garments exerting Siegl compression profile pressures targeting 18mmHg at the ankle
- Graduated Support Hosiery – garments exerting pressures in the range of 6 – 12mmHg at the ankle
The testing is performed on the original Mark II HATRA Hosiery testing apparatus which is quoted in all relevant British Standards.
SMTL are recognised as a centre of excellence for the testing of compression garments and our reports are accepted and respected worldwide by clinicians, manufacturers and procurement bodies.
The laboratory has also assessed the compression profile of Lymphoedema garments for Lymphoedema Network Wales, and the compression profile of athletic socks, leg and arm- sleeves for the sports industry.
If you wish to commission testing of your compression stockings so that you can demonstrate compliance with the British Standards or to demonstrate bespoke pressure profiles then contact SMTL. We will be happy to arrange a full or phased testing programme to suit your needs: smtl.info@wales.nhs.uk
Relevant Standards
- BS 661210 Graduated compression hosiery, anti‑embolism hosiery and graduated support hosiery — Specification