STANDARD EN 388

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Types of Mechanical Hazards :

• • abrasion : Measures the resistance of the material to wear due to friction.
  • Blade Cutting : Evaluates the glove's resistance to being cut by a sharp blade.
  • Rend : Estimates the force required to tear the glove material.
  • perforation : Measures the resistance of the glove to puncture by a sharp object.
    Performance Levels :
    • Each type of risk is rated on a scale of 1 to 4 or 5, where 1 represents the lowest resistance and 4 or 5 the highest.
    • abrasion : 1 to 4
    • Blade Cutting : 1 to 5
    • Rend : 1 to 4
    • perforation : 1 to 4Test Methods :
      • abrasion : The material is rubbed against sandpaper under a specific pressure until a hole appears.
      • Blade Cutting : A circular blade is passed over the glove material until it is cut.
      • Rend : The material is subjected to increasing force until it tears.
      • perforation : A standard punch is used to pierce the material, and the force required is measured.Marking :
        • Certified gloves must bear a pictogram and a four-digit code corresponding to the performance levels for each risk type (for example, 4X43).
        • The “X” means that the test was not performed or is not applicable.

Revision and Additions to the Standard (EN 388:2016)

In 2016, EN 388 was revised to include two new test methods:

ISO Break Test (EN ISO 13997) :

• • Evaluates the resistance of the material to being cut by a blade under constant force.
  • Results are given in Newtons (N), and the performance level ranges from A to F, where F is the highest resistance.Impact :
    • Gloves offering impact protection must be tested to EN 13594 and marked with a P (for “protection”) if they pass the test.
      

      Use of Gloves Compliant with Standard EN 388

      Gloves conforming to EN 388 are used in various industrial sectors, including construction, metallurgy, material handling, and agriculture. They provide essential protection for workers against common mechanical hazards and improve workplace safety.