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, Coup Test Level 0

  The EN 388:2016 standard specifies requirements and test methods for protective gloves in relation to physical and mechanical aggressions due to abrasion, blade cut, tear, puncture, and impact resistance. A Cut Resistance Level 0 result in this standard implies that the protective gloves under assessment offer very minimal to no protection against cutting hazards. The Coup Test, utilized to determine this result, involves rotating a circular blade under constant pressure against the glove material until it is cut through. This test specifically assesses how well glove materials can withstand cutting forces from a sharp, circular blade. For procurement professionals, this result indicates that gloves with a Cut Resistance Level 0 are unsuitable for environments where there is a risk of hand injuries from sharp objects as they provide the lowest level of cut resistance under EN 388:2016.

  Abrasion Resistance Level 2

  EN 388:2016 is an updated European standard that specifies criteria for testing gloves to protect against mechanical risks, including abrasion, cuts, tears, and puncture. The Abrasion Resistance Level 2 classification within this standard indicates a moderate level of protection against wear from rough materials. The abrasion resistance test involves subjecting the glove material to repeated cycles of sandpaper under pressure until the material wears through. Level 2 abrasion resistance means the gloves can withstand between 500 to 1999 cycles before being penetrated. This level of protection is suitable for tasks that involve handling or coming into contact with abrasive materials but not at an extreme or heavy-duty level. Gloves with Level 2 abrasion resistance are well-suited for general handling tasks, offering durability and protection to extend the life of the glove while maintaining good dexterity and comfort.

  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.

  Puncture Resistance Level 2

  The standard EN 388:2016 includes an assessment of Puncture Resistance, where Level 2 signifies that the material has met specific criteria for resistance against puncture. The result of Level 2 in puncture resistance means that the protective glove or material can withstand a force of 60 to 100 newtons before being punctured. The test method used involves using a standardized steel puncture probe that is pushed against the material at a specified speed until it pierces through it. In essence, achieving a Level 2 puncture resistance under EN 388:2006 suggests that the protective equipment offers moderate protection against punctures, making it suitable for environments where there is a risk of encountering sharp objects such as needles, but are not excessively sharp or exert very high force.

  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.

• 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.