EN 388: European Hand Protection & Cut Level Ratings
1. What is the EN 388 standard?
EN 388 is a European safety standard for protective work gloves, providing comprehensive assessment for their resistance to mechanical risks. The standard evaluates gloves based on their performance against abrasion, cut, tear, puncture, and impact, ensuring that users can select the appropriate hand protection for various industrial and occupational hazards. Following EN388 guidelines ensures that both manufacturers and users can have confidence in the reliability and safety of their hands whilst carrying out work.
EN 388 is the standards for the protection of protective gloves against mechanical risks in Europe.
2. Safety Mark
The standard evaluates gloves based on their performance against abrasion, cut, tear, puncture, and impact.
3. Testing Methods
Abrasion Resistance
Use Martindale tester. Take (38.0±0.5)mm palm samples, abrade with 180 - grain paper under (9.0±0.2)k-Pa. Record abrasion - through cycles, grade by min cycles of 4 samples.
Cut Resistance (Round Blade)
Use circular blade tester. Test 2 gloves (5 times/sample) under 5N. Stop at cut - through or 60 cycles. Calculate average cut index, grade 1 -
5.
Tear Resistance
Use tensile tester. Take “pant - type tear” palm samples (4 pairs). Stretch at 100mm/min till tear. Measure force, grade 1 - 4 by min value of 4 samples.
Puncture Resistance
Use tensile tester + puncture needle. Puncture palm samples at 100mm/min. Record penetration force, grade 1 - 4.
Cut Resistance (Straight Blade)
Use straight - blade device. Sample, test contact load, draw force - cutting length trend. Retest 5 times, grade A - F (F highest).
Impact Protection
Use drop - weight tester. Test 4 gloves (diff sizes). Impact soft leather on cylinder top (2.5kg, 5J±0.1J). Measure peak force, check tear. Test 4 times/glove area. Pass if force < 7kN & ≤9kN, add “P” to grade.
4. Grading Standards
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Are ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 ratings directly comparable?
No, not directly. EN 388 and ANSI/ISEA 105 are not equivalent and cannot be compared as such due to the various testing methods used within each standard.
Which standard should I follow for selecting gloves?
This depends on your region and specific requirements. While most gloves sold in the US will have both markings, EN 388 is widely used in Europe and many other parts of the world, while ANSI/ISEA 105 is commonly used in North America. Understanding local regulations and job-specific risks can help determine which standard to prioritize.
6. Resource (Download)
Understanding EN 388 is essential when choosing the right cut-resistant gloves. Always check which standard a glove complies with and select the level of protection that matches your work or daily tasks to ensure maximum safety and hand protection.
