Standards and labels

• EN 511:2006

  EN 511:2006 is a European standard that sets requirements for the protection against cold for gloves and mittens. It covers factors such as resistance to cold, water penetration and breathability. Testing must be done by a certified lab and must show that the product meets all requirements of the standard. Possible test results would include pass/fail for each requirement, as well as specific measurement data.

  Test results

  Water Tightness Level X

  The standard EN 511:2006 defines the requirements for protective gloves against cold. The reference to a Water Tightness Level X in this standard typically indicates that the glove has not been tested for water tightness. Water tightness is assessed through a specific test method where the gloves are subjected to water exposure under controlled conditions to check for leakage. The gloves are filled with water and then inspected visually to determine the presence of any water leakage. The practical implications of a Level X result for water tightness suggest that the gloves are either not designed to be waterproof or they failed to meet the minimum criteria for being labeled as water-resistant under normal usage conditions. This information is important for procurement professionals focusing specifically on the need for water-resistant or waterproof protective gloves.

  Convective Cold Level X

  The EN 511:2006 standard specifies the requirements for protective gloves against cold, including convective cold. A specific test result of Level X under this standard generally implies that the gloves have not been measured for that specific level of protection against convective cold or did not meet the criteria to be rated at a discernible level; hence, information regarding the protection it could offer at Level X is not provided. The Convective Cold Test involved in EN 511:2006 measures the thermal insulation of gloves when exposed to cold air. This test uses an electrically heated hand model, and the power required to maintain the hand's temperature gives an indication of the glove's insulation effectiveness. The test environment is controlled with progressive cooling, and measurements are taken to assess the insulation level, categorized from Level 1 upwards. The higher the level, the greater the cold insulation offered by the glove, enabling professionals in cold environments to select gloves based on the specific insulation requirements of their workplace activities .

  Cold Contact Level 2

  The standard EN 511:2006 specifies requirements for protective gloves that guard against cold environments. Cold Contact result Level 2 indicates moderate insulation against contact cold, quantified with a thermal resistance measurement in the range of 0.050 to less than 0.100 m²°C/W. This means gloves achieving this level can provide a reasonable amount of insulation, helping to reduce heat transfer from the hands to the cold contact surface, thereby lowering the rate at which hands become cold. The measurement of contact cold resistance is performed using a standardized test that involves placing the glove materials against metal plates cooled to different temperatures. The difference in temperature across the glove material is then analyzed to determine its thermal resistance. For practical implications, gloves classified under Level 2 of Cold Contact in EN 511:2006 are suitable for environments or tasks where individuals are exposed to cold objects but do not necessarily involve extreme cold or extended exposure, offering a balance between dexterity and protection from the cold .

• 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 1

  In the EN 388:2016 standard, the Abrasion Resistance result Level 1 signifies that the tested gloves or protective materials can withstand 100 cycles of sandpaper abrasion under pressure, before developing a hole. This is considered the lowest performance level in abrasion resistance according to the standard. Generally, Level 1 abrasion resistance would be underperforming for tasks that involve frequent contact with abrasive surfaces, and might be more suitable for situations where light abrasion is the primary risk. Higher numbers (up to 4) in this test indicate stronger abrasion resistance.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  Cut Resistance, Coup Test Level 1

  The EN 388:2016 standard is dedicated to gauging the mechanical risks for hand protection where a Cut Resistance, Coup Test Level 1 indicates minimal resistance to cutting because material achieved between 1.2 and 2.5 cycles before being cut through during the test. It means that the product tested at this level offers basic protection against shallow cuts, suitable for tasks with low risk of cut injuries. The test method used involves a rotating circular blade under a fixed force making contact with the fabric or material being tested. The blade moves back and forth across the material until a cut-through is achieved. The number of cycles required to cut through the sample at a consistent speed determines the cut resistance, with Level 1 being the second lowest rating after level 0. Products at this level are applicable in scenarios where there are minimal hazards from sharp objects, hence ideal for light duties where there is no significant risk of deep cuts.

• 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.