EN 388:2016 - Protective Gloves Against Mechanical Risks
According to this standard, characteristics such as abrasion resistance, cut resistance, tearing strength, puncture resistance, and impact protection are tested. In conjunction with the pictogram, four numbers and one or two letters will be displayed. These signs indicate the performance of the glove.
Abrasion Resistance
The material is subjected to abrasion by sandpaper under pressure. Protection levels range from 0 to 4 depending on the number of cycles required before a hole appears.
Cut Resistance – Coup Test
A knife passes over the glove material until it cuts through. The protection level is indicated by numbers between 1 and 5 where 5 indicates the highest level of cut protection.
Tearing Strength
The force required to tear the glove material apart is measured. The protection level is indicated by numbers between 1 and 4 where 4 indicates the strongest material.
Puncture Resistance
Based on the force required to puncture the material with a pointed object. Protection levels range between 1 and 4.
Cut Resistance – TDM Test ISO 13997
If the blade becomes dull during the coup test, the TDM test is used instead. Protection levels are represented by letters from A to F depending on the cutting force required.
Impact Protection
If the glove provides impact protection, the letter P is added at the end of the rating. If there is no P mark, the glove does not include impact protection.