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.

  Puncture Resistance Level 1

  The European standard EN 388:2016 addresses the puncture resistance of protective gloves, with puncture resistance classified from Levels 1 to 4. Specifically, a Level 1 result indicates minimal puncture resistance. This level of resistance is determined by a test involving a standardized stylus with a specified diameter and force. During the test, the stylus is pressed against the material with a force up to 20 Newtons to assess how well the glove can withstand penetration. A Level 1 rating signifies that the glove provides basic protection against small punctures or stabs, appropriate for areas with minimal risk. Practical implications for this test result suggest the gloves are suitable for light tasks where major risks of punctures are not anticipated, but are not adequate for handling sharp tools or heavy equipment where higher penetration resistance would be necessary.

  Tear Resistance Level 2

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard that sets criteria for testing the mechanical risks for protective gloves, including abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance. The Tear Resistance Level 2 designation indicates that the gloves have a moderate level of resistance to tearing. The test for tear resistance involves subjecting a sample of the glove material to a force until it tears, and the force required to initiate and propagate the tear is measured. Gloves that achieve Level 2 tear resistance can withstand between 25 to 50 Newtons of force. This level of tear resistance is suitable for tasks where gloves might face moderate stresses that could cause tearing, such as general handling and light industrial work where sharp or jagged materials are handled less frequently. These gloves provide reliable protection and durability in scenarios where some degree of mechanical risk is present but not excessively severe.

  Abrasion Resistance Level 3

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard that provides guidelines for assessing the protection levels of gloves against mechanical risks, such as abrasion, cuts, tears, and puncture. The Abrasion Resistance Level 3 indicates a higher level of protection, signifying that the gloves can resist more intensive wear from rough materials. According to the standard, the abrasion resistance test involves rubbing the glove material against sandpaper under a specified pressure until it is worn through. Level 3 abrasion resistance requires that the gloves withstand 2000 to 7999 cycles of abrasion. This enhanced level of durability is appropriate for tasks involving more frequent or more intense contact with abrasive surfaces, such as construction work, woodworking, and handling building materials. Gloves with Level 3 abrasion resistance offer a robust barrier against wear, extending glove life and providing increased protection for the wearer’s hands, thus reducing the risk of injuries in more demanding work environments.

  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.

• 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.

• 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.