
Proof Test
We’ve an unrivalled reputation for the quality and reliability of our proof testing solutions.
For over 30 years, we’ve manufactured and supplied water-filled proof test bags to organisations across the globe to test the strength and safety of lifting equipment and structures.
Our easily transported and stored proof test bags are used daily across the globe by partners in:
- Marine and shipping construction
- Oil and gas industry
- Defence industries
- Crane, winch and davit manufacturers
- Lifeboat construction
“Our relationship with Structure-flex began in 1996. Their know how has proven to be reliable from the beginning.
In 2009, we worked together to create the first 100 tonne load testing waterbag in the world.
We are proud to have Structure-flex producing our high standard products for more than 20 years now.”

Eddy Schroemges, Director
Testing Bags
Our incredibly tough and versatile water-filled proof test bags are manufactured to the highest standards, in capacities up to 110 tonnes.
Proof Load Testing Bags
Our standard proof test bags are manufactured in sizes ranging from 1 to 110 tonnes.
In addition, we provide a range of low head room test bags for use in restricted height environments, from 1 to 15 tonnes.
Test bags are where possible TUV NEL dynamic type tested up to a 6:1 safety factor, with larger bags undergoing mechanical stress calculations completed by a professor of mathematics, or expert Finite Element Analysis modelling.
- European manufactured 1680g/m2 PVC coated 2,200 dtex polyester 3×3 weave
- Harness assemblies to BS EN1492-1:2000 with 7:1 safety factor
- Genuine Green Pin shackles to BS EN13889 and FRAM quad links to BS EN1677-4
- Manufactured using the latest high-frequency welding technology
- Single lifting point for ease-of-use
- Available in orange and yellow material, or as a hybrid combination
Standard Test Bag
Low Head Test Bag
Standard Test Bag Specifications
SIZE (tn) | CAPACITY (kg) | HEIGHT (m) | DIAMETER (m) |
1 | 1,000 | 2.4 | 1.2 |
2 | 2,000 | 3.7 | 1.7 |
3 | 3,000 | 4.1 | 2.0 |
5 | 5,000 | 4.6 | 2.1 |
10 | 10,000 | 5.8 | 2.4 |
20 | 20,000 | 5.8 | 3.7 |
25 | 25,000 | 6.1 | 3.8 |
35 | 35,000 | 7.0 | 4.2 |
50 | 50,000 | 8.5 | 4.6 |
55 | 55,000 | 8.9 | 4.8 |
100 | 100,000 | 10.7 | 5.9 |
110 | 110,000 | 12.0 | 5.9 |
Low Head Test Bag Specifications
SIZE (tn) CAPACITY (kg) HEIGHT (m) DIAMETER (m) 1 1,000 1.5 1.5 2 2,000 1.8 1.8 3 3,000 2.3 2.1 5 5,000 3.4 2.3 6.5 6,500 3.7 2.3 12.5 12,500 4.7 2.8 15 15,000 5.1 2.8
Lifeboat Testing Bags
Our cylindrical lifeboat bags are used to provide a simple and accurate way to load test lifeboat supports and winches and other emergency craft in situ.
They provide a uniformly distributed load and are easy to use, transport and store.
Available in standard capacities from 100kg to 500kg, with bespoke designs available.
- European manufactured 1680g/m2 PVC coated 2,200 dtex polyester 3×3 weave
- 1” BSP flanged brass fill/empty port
- 1” BSP ball valve with camlock fitting
- Separate 2 PSI pressure relief valve
- Handling straps for ease-of-positioning
- Easy to fold and compact to store
- Also available with manifold, pipework and air pump
Gangway Testing Bags
Our cylindrical gangway bags are used to provide a simple and accurate way to load test gangway, walkways and ladders.
They provide a uniformly distributed load and are easy to use, transport and store.
Available in standard capacities in 1,000kg to 1,500kg.
- European manufactured 1680g/m2 PVC coated 2,200 dtex polyester 3×3 weave
- 2” BSP GRPP fill/empty port(s) for strength
- 2” BSP ball valve(s) with camlock fitting
- Separate 2 PSI pressure relief valve
- Handling straps for ease-of-positioning
- Easy to fold and compact to store
- Bespoke sizes available upon request
Lifeboat and Gangway Test Bag Specifications
Model No. | CAPACITY/SWL | DIAMETER (m/ft) | LENGTH (m/ft) |
LBB100 | 100 KG | 0.32m/1.05ft | 1.24m/4.07ft |
LBB200 | 200 KG | 0.47m/1.54ft | 1.16m/3.81ft |
LBB250 | 250 KG | 0.47m/1.54ft | 1.45m/4.76ft |
LBB350 | 350 KG | 0.47m/1.54ft | 2.00m/6.56ft |
LBB375 | 375 KG | 0.47m/1.54ft | 2.17m/7.12ft |
LBB500 | 500 KG | 0.50m/1.64ft | 2.60m/8.53ft |
GWB1000 | 1000 KG | 0.60m/1.97ft | 3.55m/11.65ft |
GWB1500 | 1500 KG | 0.60m/1.97ft | 5.33m/17.49ft |
Moon Pool Test Bags
Moon pools or ‘wet porches’ are used by drilling platforms, fishing vessels and exploration vessels which need to test the winch equipment, tasked with lowering expensive equipment such as diving bells in confined spaces.
Capacities have ranged from 400kg to 48 tonnes, utilising a cylindrical shaped design as opposed to the ‘teardrop’ shape seen with traditional crane test bags.
To offer enhanced strength and all-important dimensional stability when full, several 30cm wide circumferential polyester webbing bands are introduced to the design to ensure the bag does not ‘bulge’. This helps prevent side wall or other structural damage during testing.
Testing Videos
Discover the features and performance of our internationally acclaimed proof test bags in use.









