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This is an example of an EN 388 rating you may find on a glove.
Measures how well the glove resists wear from rubbing or scraping. Rated 0–4 (higher is better).
Assesses resistance to cutting by a rotating circular blade. Rated 0–5 (higher is better). May be replaced by letter E for higher cut risks.
Indicates how much force is needed to tear the glove. Rated 0–4.
Measures resistance to penetration by a pointed object. Rated 0–4.
Uses a different method (ISO 13997) for high-cut risks. Rated A–F (higher letter = better resistance). Supersedes B if used.
Indicates protection against impacts (e.g., knuckles). Marked P if passed, F if failed, and either left blank or marked X if not tested.
Certification markings are usually printed or embossed directly on the back of the glove, often near the wrist or cuff area. Sometimes the markings can also be found on the glove’s packaging or label.
The glove material is rubbed against abrasive paper (180 grit) using a rotating platform. The test counts how many cycles the material withstands before a hole appears. Results are rated 0–4 (higher = better).
The glove material is rubbed against abrasive paper (180 grit) using a rotating platform. The test counts how many cycles the material withstands before a hole appears. Results are rated 0–4 (higher = better).
A rotating circular blade moves back and forth under constant pressure on the glove material. The number of cycles before cutting through determines the score (0–5). If the blade dulls, the test is stopped and replaced with the TDM test.
A rotating circular blade moves back and forth under constant pressure on the glove material. The number of cycles before cutting through determines the score (0–5). If the blade dulls, the test is stopped and replaced with the TDM test.
The TDM (ISO 13997) test uses a straight blade and measures the force (in Newtons) required to make a clean cut through the glove in one pass. It gives more accurate results for high-cut materials. Ratings range from A to F.
The TDM (ISO 13997) test uses a straight blade and measures the force (in Newtons) required to make a clean cut through the glove in one pass. It gives more accurate results for high-cut materials. Ratings range from A to F.
A standardised pointed probe is pushed through the glove material at a controlled speed. The amount of force required to puncture it is measured in Newtons and rated from 0–4.
A standardised pointed probe is pushed through the glove material at a controlled speed. The amount of force required to puncture it is measured in Newtons and rated from 0–4.
Gloves with impact protection (usually on the knuckles or back of the hand) are tested by applying a defined force (5 Joules). If the force transmitted is below a certain limit, the glove passes and is marked P.
Gloves with impact protection (usually on the knuckles or back of the hand) are tested by applying a defined force (5 Joules). If the force transmitted is below a certain limit, the glove passes and is marked P.
Tests are typically performed on material samples taken from the glove, especially the palm area, which receives the most wear.
Tests are typically performed on material samples taken from the glove, especially the palm area, which receives the most wear.
Testing must be done by a notified body accredited to perform PPE testing under EU regulation. They issue a CE certificate and the test results that appear on the glove’s marking.
Testing must be done by a notified body accredited to perform PPE testing under EU regulation. They issue a CE certificate and the test results that appear on the glove’s marking.
No. Only gloves intended to protect against mechanical risks require EN 388 certification. Gloves for thermal, chemical, or electrical protection fall under different standards (e.g., EN 407, EN 374, IEC 60903).
No. Only gloves intended to protect against mechanical risks require EN 388 certification. Gloves for thermal, chemical, or electrical protection fall under different standards (e.g., EN 407, EN 374, IEC 60903).
If it fails to meet the minimum Level 1 for any test, it may be marked with a “0” or “X”, or be disqualified from certification depending on intended use.
If it fails to meet the minimum Level 1 for any test, it may be marked with a “0” or “X”, or be disqualified from certification depending on intended use.
To choose the right EN 388 glove, identify the main risks in your job like cuts, abrasion, or punctures, and select gloves with high ratings for those hazards. Balance protection with comfort and dexterity to ensure you can work safely and efficiently.
If you need more help, contact our Customer Service Team for advice.
To choose the right EN 388 glove, identify the main risks in your job like cuts, abrasion, or punctures, and select gloves with high ratings for those hazards. Balance protection with comfort and dexterity to ensure you can work safely and efficiently.
If you need more help, contact our Customer Service Team for advice.
