Since the introduction of the SAT test sticker in 2009, 1,036,000 copies have been placed on the market. The label developed by the VTH Verband Technischer Handel e.V. (Association of Technical Trade) is considered an established quality feature for tested hose lines.
“This figure impressively demonstrates how well the system has been accepted in the industry,” says VTH Managing Director Nadine Lorenz. “With the SAT test sticker, we have created a uniform and visible sign of tested safety – now over a million times.”
The color-coded test stickers from the “Hose, Fittings, and Fluid Technology” (SAT) specialist group are registered in the design register and indicate when a hose line must be retested in accordance with the Industrial Safety Regulation. Only registered “Certified Specialist Companies for Hose and Fitting Technology” are permitted to issue them.
Board confirmed – training program expanded
On November 5, 2025, in Lüdenscheid, the 70 member companies confirmed their current board of directors for another two years. Hartmut Schmitz (Hydraulik Schmitz) remains chairman, supported by deputy chairmen Rolf Effenberger, Jörg Jansen, Dr. Thomas Gottschalk, and Patrick Pitsch.
At the same time, the specialist group is continuing to expand its training offerings. In addition to existing qualifications—such as “Certified Consultant” or “Person qualified to conduct inspections in accordance with § 2 (6) BetrSichV”—refresher and advanced courses as well as online basic seminars are offered. Further formats are planned.
Involvement in standardization work
Four members of the technical group are working in the DIN Standards Committee for Tank Installations (NATank) on a new standard for round threads and clamp connections. These connection types are not yet covered in the current EN 14420 series, although they are widely used in many applications. The planned standard is intended to create greater compatibility and safety in the future.
Representatives from 33 trading companies also learned about the activities of other working groups. The technical committee plans to intensify its cooperation with manufacturers such as GEKA (Karasto), MCC, Norres Baggerman, Riegler, and Schauenburg in 2026.
