Standards and labels

• EN 61340-5-1:2016

  EN 61340-5-1:2016 is a European standard that defines the requirements and test methods for measuring the performance of ESD (electrostatic discharge) protective clothing. This standard covers the performance of clothing, including material, design and construction, that is intended to protect the human body against electrostatic discharges, which are a type of electrical shock caused by the build-up of static electricity on the body or clothing. The standard also includes test methods to evaluate the clothing's performance, including tests for electric strength, charge decay, and resistance to penetration of electrostatic charges. Test results must show that the clothing meets or exceeds the required performance levels and other requirements specified in the standard.

  Test results

  Electrostatic Discharge Antistatic

  The standard EN 61340-5-1:2016 specifies requirements and test methods for materials and products that control electrostatic discharge to prevent damage or malfunction of electronic/components in sensitive environments. When a product is labeled as Antistatic under this standard, it signifies that the material or protective equipment has properties that prevent the build-up of static electricity by allowing it to dissipate. This result generally implies a surface resistance in a specific range or contains materials that dissipate electrostatic charges. Testing for antistatic properties typically includes measuring the resistance of the material or product by applying a voltage across it and determining its resistance using tools such as an electrostatic voltmeter or a surface resistance meter. This test is essential in environments such as electronic assembly or explosive atmospheres, where static discharge can be harmful. Properly marked materials under EN 61340-5-1:2016 ensure that the products are safe for use in settings where electrostatic discharge could pose a risk, thereby safeguarding sensitive equipment or environments from electrostatic damage.

• 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

  Tear Resistance Level 3

  EN 388:2016 is a European standard that specifies methods for testing the resistance of protective gloves against mechanical hazards, such as abrasion, cuts, punctures, and tearing. The Tear Resistance Level 3 indicates a high level of protection, where the gloves can withstand significant tearing forces. The test for determining tear resistance involves subjecting the glove material to a mechanical force until it tears, measuring the force required to initiate and continue the tear. For Level 3, gloves must withstand a force between 50 to 75 Newtons before tearing. This robust level of tear resistance is particularly suitable for demanding environments where gloves are exposed to activities that might cause extensive wear or tearing, such as handling heavy or rough materials, industrial assembly, and construction tasks. Gloves with this level of tear resistance provide enhanced durability and safety, reducing the risk of injuries and increasing the longevity of the glove in tough working conditions.

  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.

  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.

• 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.