Glove Standards

Glove Standards

EN388 grades a gloves ability to protect the hand from
mechanical risks. This is graded using 4 performance levels, which are
indicated below the pictogram as a score:

A. Abrasion Resistance

Based on the number of cycles required to abrade through the sample given (scored 1-4)

B. Blade Cut Resistance

Based on the number of cycles required to cut through the Sample at a constant speed (scored 1-5)

C. Tear Resistance

Based on the amount of force required to tear the sample (scored 1-4)

D. Puncture Resistance

Based on the amount of force required to pierce the sample with a standard sized point (scored 1-4

EN374 measures the time it takes for a chemical to break through the glove material. Multiple samples from the palm of the tested glove have chemicals placed onto the surface of the sample. The time it takes for the chemical to pass through to the inside of the sample is known as the breakthrough time. This is then graded from level 0-6:

EN420 regulates the levels of safety and testing that all safety gloves have to pass in order to be deemed safe for general use. The criteria covers:

 Markings – Each glove carries the manufacturer’s logo, the reference, the size and CE mark. If it is classed in category III, the number of the notified body that carried out the tests also appears on the glove.

Dexterity (1-5) – The higher the rating, the greater the dexterity

Innocuousness (pH) – All gloves are checked for compliance in terms of their pH value (between 3.5 and 9.5)

Performance Levels – The higher the rating, the greater the performance, the lowest rating being zero