Franz Mensch Work Gloves, Cow Split Leather, 11/XXL, Grey

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

  Cut Resistance, ISO 13997 Level A

  The cut resistance result of Level A based on ISO 13997 in the standard EN 388:2016 indicates a force of greater than 2 Newtons required to cut through the material. This is considered the first level on a scale that ranges up to Level F, where each level corresponds to higher thresholds of force needed to penetrate the material, with Level F exceeding 30 Newtons. The testing method employs a TDM test device equipped with a single-use straight edge blade. During the test, the blade is drawn only once across the material in one direction, and once the blade cuts through the sample, the distance the blade has traveled is recorded. This standardized testing ensures that the cut resistance of materials like gloves can be measured more accurately, especially those fabricated from high-cut resistance materials that might blunt a blade. The practical implication of obtaining a result of Level A in this test is that the material provides basic cut protection and is suitable for tasks with minimal cut hazards, such as light material handling or small parts assembly.

  Abrasion Resistance Level 4

  EN 388:2016 uses a specific test method to measure abrasion resistance of safety gloves; the gloves’ material is subjected to sandpaper under pressure to observe the number of cycles needed to wear through the material. Level 4 in this standard indicates that the material withstood 8,000 cycles before a hole was made. Practically, this means that gloves rated at Level 4 for abrasion resistance offer very high resilience against wearing through, making them suitable for tasks involving significant contact with rough surfaces .

  Cut Resistance, Coup Test Level 2

  EN 388:2016 standard features a Coup Test used to measure Cut Resistance, and a result of Level 2 indicates moderate protection against cuts. This level signifies that the material being tested withstood between 2.5 to 5.0 cutting cycles before the blade penetrated the glove during testing. The Coup Test involves a rotating circular blade with a constant force applied, moving back and forth across the material until a cut through occurs. The sharpness of the blade and the distance of blade travel are measured before the test, and after cutting through the material, to ensure accuracy. Practical implications of a Level 2 result suggest the gloves are suitable for tasks with some cut hazards but are not suggested for high-risk cut environments, such as handling heavy or very sharp materials where a higher level of protection might be necessary. This result helps businesses choose gloves tailored for different workplace needs regarding cut risks.

  Tear Resistance Level 4

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard that establishes criteria for assessing the protection provided by gloves against mechanical hazards, including tear resistance. The Tear Resistance Level 4 classification represents the highest level of tear resistance defined by this standard, indicating that the gloves can withstand the most substantial forces before tearing. According to the testing methodology, gloves are evaluated by measuring the force required to tear a sample of the glove material, with Level 4 requiring a force of over 75 Newtons to initiate and propagate a tear. This high level of tear resistance is ideal for use in environments where gloves are subjected to significant stress and potential damage, such as in heavy industry, construction, and handling of materials with sharp edges. Gloves achieving this level offer superior durability and are essential for ensuring user safety in high-risk mechanical settings, thereby enhancing work efficiency and reducing the frequency of glove replacement.

  Puncture Resistance Level 4

  The standard EN 388:2016 includes a test for Puncture Resistance, where a Level 4 result indicates a protective performance that can withstand a force between 100 to 150 newtons. This specific level of puncture resistance reflects a significant protective capability, offering substantial protection against punctures from pointed objects like nails or wires. The test method includes using a standard stylus of a specific diameter, which is pressed against the sample material with increasing force until it punctures the material. A machine used for this test measures the force exerted at the moment the material is punctured. Practical implications of this result for products such as gloves or protective clothing mean that they are suitable for environments where there is a high risk of encountering medium to sharp objects that could pierce through lesser resistant materials, thus ensuring higher safety standards for workers in such conditions. This level of puncture resistance is particularly crucial in industries such as construction or waste management where sharp debris is common.

• CE Marking

  CE Marking is a label that shows a product meets certain safety and environmental standards set by the European Union. To get the CE Marking, a company must test and certify their product meets these standards. CE Marking is required for many products sold in the EU, including electronics, machinery, toys and medical devices. It helps ensure that products are safe for consumers and the environment, and allows for easy trade within the EU.

• PPE Category 2

  PPE stands for "personal protective equipment." PPE Category 2 refers to equipment that is more complex, and has a higher level of risk. Examples of PPE Category 2 include safety helmets, ear protection, and fall arrest equipment. In Europe, PPE Category 2 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 and have to be audited regularly by a notified body.