Standards and labels

• EN 388:2016

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard for measuring the performance of protective gloves against mechanical risks (abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture). The standard includes test methods and performance requirements for gloves to be considered compliant. Test results are reported using a series of four numbers, each representing the performance level achieved in one of the tests.

  Test results

  Abrasion Resistance Level X

  In the EN 388:2016 standard, the Abrasion Resistance is measured as the number of cycles required to wear a hole in the glove material using sandpaper under pressure. A result of Level X indicates that this performance metric was not tested for the specific glove. When a glove shows a result of Level X for abrasion resistance, it essentially means there is no available data from testing to confirm how well the glove would withstand abrasion, making it unsuitable for applications where abrasion resistance is critical.

  Cut Resistance, ISO 13997 Level D

  Cut Resistance according to the ISO 13997 result under the European Standard EN 388:2016 quantifies the level of resistance a material offers against cutting where the required force to cut through the protective material is between 15 and 21 Newtons. This test method involves applying a straight-edge blade under load over the material's surface and determining the load at which the blade cuts through at a standard length of cut. This stringent testing is critical for products like protective gloves or garments, where high cut resistance ensures better safety and durability in environments where sharp objects are handled. Understanding and adhering to this standard helps procure suitable protective gear that meets safety requirements and offers expected protection for specific risk exposures .

  Tear Resistance Level X

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard that outlines the methods for assessing the protection provided by gloves against mechanical hazards, including abrasion, cuts, punctures, and tearing. The notation Tear Resistance Level X within this standard signifies that the glove has not been tested for tear resistance or that the glove failed the tear resistance test. This classification is used when testing is not applicable due to the nature of the glove material or design. In the testing process, a force is normally applied to the glove to measure how much force is required to initiate and propagate a tear. The absence of a level indicates that users should not rely on these gloves for tear protection. Practical implications for this classification include selecting these gloves for tasks where tear resistance is not a primary safety concern, focusing instead on other protective qualities the glove may offer, such as puncture resistance or chemical protection.

  Cut Resistance, ISO 13997 Level X

  The standard EN 388:2016, specifically its segment referring to ISO 13997 test, is designed to assess the cut resistance of materials used in protective gloves. A result denoted as 'Level X' means that test is not performed and the cut resistance of the product cannot be guaranteed.

• PPE Category 3

  PPE stands for "personal protective equipment." PPE Category 3 refers to equipment that is complex and provide the highest level of protection such as powered respirators, SCBA, and full body suits. In Europe, PPE Category 3 must meet certain safety standards set by the European Union, which means that it must be designed and manufactured to protect the user without causing harm. Companies that make or sell PPE must prove that it meets these standards. They also must have a quality management system in place, have to be audited regularly by a notified body and have to have a technical documentation.