TS EN 15987

TS EN 15987 is a terminology standard that brings together the key terms and definitions used in the leather trade. It also gives guidance on the correct use of the term “leather”, helping commercial and technical communication stay consistent and precise.

Why terminology matters in the leather trade

The leather sector relies on careful distinctions between raw hide, processed leather, surface treatments, and product classes. Terminology standards help ensure that these words are used in the same way by different parties, reducing ambiguity, misdescription, and confusion. The focus of this standard is not to define the physical performance of leather itself, but to clarify what the terms mean in trade and technical documentation.

What the scope means in technical practice

The document states that the defined parameters need to be assessed using standard test methods specific for leather. In practical terms, this means terminology and measurement are linked but not identical: a correct definition should be supported by appropriate test results. In leather-related standards, this distinction matters because properties such as appearance, strength, thickness, surface behaviour, or processing characteristics only become meaningful when evaluated by the relevant method.

In general technical context, “leather” refers to an animal-origin material that has been processed to achieve specific properties; in trade, however, the correct and careful use of that term is especially important. TS EN 15987 therefore serves as a reference for consistent language and technical clarity.