Guide Winter Glove

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

  Cold Contact Level 0

  The standard EN 511:2006 specifies requirements for protective gloves that guard against cold environments. A Cold Contact result of Level 0 signifies that the gloves have not demonstrated any insulating capabilities against cold contact according to the tests specified in the standard. This result is derived through a test method that involves subjecting the glove material to cold contact conditions and measuring its temperature change over time compared to a reference. If a glove receives a level 0, it means that under the exacting conditions of this standardized test, the material does not insulate the hand against cold effectively. This can be critical for users needing protection in cold environments, such as those working in cold storage or outdoor winter conditions, as it suggests these gloves would not provide adequate protection against cold contact risks.

  Convective Cold Level 1

  The standard EN 511:2006 specifies requirements and test methods for gloves designed to protect against cold environments, focusing on elements such as convective cold, contact cold, and water permeability. The Convective Cold test, particularly at Level 1, results in a performance level where the thermal insulation (denoted as TR) measured in \(m^2°C/W\) is in the range of 0.10 to less than 0.15. This measurement indicates the glove's ability to provide minimal thermal resistance against cold air. The Convective Cold Test involves placing a glove on an electrically heated hand model, where the power required to maintain the hand at a set temperature (typically around 30°C) in a controlled cooling environment is measured. The glove's performance level is determined based on how much power is needed to keep the hand warm as the surrounding temperature decreases. Level 1 highlights a basic level of insulation against cold air, suitable for environments where slight cold protection is sufficient, but would not be suitable for more severe cold conditions. .

  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.

• 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 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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

• EN 407:2020

  EN 407:2020 is a European standard that specifies the safety requirements for protective gloves for thermal risks. It sets rules for the design, construction, and testing of gloves that protect users from heat and fire. Testing includes measurements of contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, small splashes of molten metal, and flame resistance. The standard also includes requirements for labeling and instructions for use. This standard is an updated version of EN 407:2004, it includes new requirements, testing methods and performance levels to ensure that the gloves provide better protection against thermal risks such as heat, fire and molten metal splash.

  Test results

  Heat Convection Level X

  In the context of EU standard EN 407:2020, a test result signifying Heat Convection Level X indicates that the protective glove tested either did not meet the minimum requirements or was not tested under this criterion. It's vital to interpret such a label as the absence of certified protection against convection heat, which may involve exposure to energetically transferred heat via fluids or gases. The test method used to determine the Heat Convection Level involves measuring the time it takes for heat to transfer from a heated aluminum cylinder through the glove material to the inner surface where it might contact skin, as specified in the standard. The testing apparatus measures the rise in temperature inside the glove to assess its heat insulating properties. Practical implications of achieving 'Level X' in convection heat test suggest that the product is either unsuitable for environments where convection heat is a risk, or it necessitates further testing to ascertain its protective capabilities in specific conditions, crucial information for procurement decisions in safety-related industries.

  Radiant Heat Level X

  EN 407:2020 is a European standard that sets the requirements for protective gloves to defend against various thermal hazards, including radiant heat. The designation Radiant Heat Level X indicates that the gloves have not been tested for this specific type of protection, or they did not meet the minimum criteria established by the standard for resisting radiant heat. This means that these gloves are not certified for protection against radiant heat, which involves the transmission of heat through infrared rays from a heat source without direct contact. The lack of a specific radiant heat protection level suggests that users should not rely on these gloves for tasks where significant exposure to radiant heat is expected. Instead, these gloves might be suitable for other types of thermal risks for which they are certified, ensuring users select the appropriate type of protective glove based on the specific hazards present in their working environment. This classification assists in preventing inappropriate glove use and enhancing worker safety by clearly indicating the limitations of the glove's protective capabilities.

  Metal Splash Resistance Level X

  The EN 407:2020 standard specifies different levels of protection for gloves against thermal risks, including metal splash resistance. A result marked as 'Level X' under this standard symbolizes that the glove material either did not meet the minimum requirements for testing or that no specific test was conducted for this hazard. The test for Metal Splash Resistance in EN 407:2004 involves exposing the glove material to molten metal splashes to determine how much molten metal is required to heat the glove material to a degree that it would cause risks to the wearer. The practical implication of a 'Level X' rating is that gloves marked as such should not be relied upon for protection against risks of molten metal splashes, making them unsuitable for use in environments where exposure to this hazard is likely.

  Burning Behaviour Level X

  The EN 407:2020 standard's specified test result Level X for Burning Behaviour indicates that either the test was not conducted or the sample was not applicable for testing under this specific parameter. Consequently, no performance level can be assigned according the criteria set in the standard. This finding is part of a broader testing protocol where Thermal Hazards Protection levels are determined for materials, especially used in gloves intended for heat handling. The test method evaluates the material’s ability to resist catching fire and its rate of burning. To assess burning behavior, the sample is exposed to a small flame, and observations are made on whether it ignites, how long it burns after the flame is removed, and how it extinguishes. Practical implications for products that receive a Level X for Burning Behaviour could include uncertainty in performance when faced with thermal hazards, thus impacting their suitability for jobs involving high temperatures or direct contact with flames.

  Molten Metal Resistance Level X

  EN 407:2020 is a European standard that provides specifications for protective gloves to safeguard against thermal risks, including the exposure to molten metals. The designation Molten Metal Resistance Level X indicates that the gloves have not been tested for this specific risk, or they failed to meet the minimum requirements set out in the standard for protection against molten metal splashes. This means that the gloves are either unsuitable for use in environments where there is a risk of contact with molten metals, or additional testing is required to determine their suitability. Typically, such a classification implies that the gloves should not be used for handling molten metals and should only be considered for other types of thermal risks specified in the standard, where molten metal exposure is not a concern. This classification helps in ensuring that users select the right type of glove based on the specific hazards present in their working environment, thereby preventing inappropriate use and enhancing safety.

  Heat Contact Level 2

  The EN 407:2020 standard revolves around the specification for protective gloves against thermal risks, such as heat and flame. A entry marked as Heat Contact result Level 2 indicates gloves that provide moderate protection against contact with heat, capable of resisting a specific temperature of up to 250°C for a minimum exposure time determined by the Level 2 requirements. This protective level is tested primarily to ensure that users of these gloves can safely handle moderately hot surfaces without sustaining heat injuries. During the test for Heat Contact, a sample glove segment is exposed to a heat source at a specific temperature, and the time taken for the temperature inside the glove to increase by a set number of degrees (typically by 24°C) is measured. This result implies that these gloves offer sufficient protection for tasks involving significant but not extreme temperatures, making them suitable for various industrial, mechanical, and cooking operations where intermediate heat protection is necessary.

• 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.

• Oeko-Tex Standard 100

  Oeko-Tex Standard 100 is a product certification program for textiles, which is awarded by the Oeko-Tex Association. This program verifies that the textile products are free from harmful chemicals. To be able to use the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 label, a product must meet certain requirements set by the Oeko-Tex Association which include limits on the levels of harmful substances such as pesticides, heavy metals, and formaldehyde. The textile products are inspected and certified by Oeko-Tex, they can use the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 label on their packaging to show that they are free from harmful chemicals. This certification is for all types of textiles, from raw materials to finished products, and it is globally recognized.

• 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.