The four digits of EN 388 stand for the tested mechanical properties: abrasion resistance (level 0 to 4), cut resistance in the coupe test (0 to 5), tear resistance (0 to 4) and puncture resistance (0 to 4). The higher the figure, the better the respective protective performance. An X means that the property was not tested or the test was not meaningful. Additional letters indicate the cut level to EN ISO 13997 (A to F) and optionally the impact protection.
The meaningful cut test is carried out to EN ISO 13997 and is given in six levels from A to F. Level A corresponds to low, level F to very high cut resistance. For work on metal edges, at least level C is generally recommended, correspondingly higher for particularly sharp-edged workpieces. The level is given as the first letter after the EN 388 code.
Assembly gloves are designed for grip, tactile sensitivity and abrasion resistance and are suitable for gripping, assembly and handling activities. Cut-protection gloves use fibre-reinforced carrier yarns with high cut resistance to EN ISO 13997 and protect on sheet metal, metal, glass and sharp edges. Both types are coated, but differ in priority: dexterity for the assembly glove, cut resistance for the cut-protection glove.
EN ISO 374-1 classifies chemical protection gloves into Type A, B and C. Type A protects against at least six test chemicals, Type B against at least three, Type C against at least one chemical. The decisive factor is the breakthrough time for the specific substance. Check the safety data sheet of the operating material and the chemical resistance table of the glove manufacturer in order to correctly assign material and protection duration.
Disposable nitrile gloves are suitable for hygiene-sensitive and change-intensive workplaces such as final inspection, inspection stations, filling or maintenance. They offer fine tactile sensitivity, good grip and basic protection against light soiling, are latex-free and are disposed of after use. For industrial use, powder-free variants with increased material thickness and a textured surface are suitable. If a glove is to protect against chemicals, suitability for the specific substance must be verified on the basis of the type classification to EN ISO 374-1 and the breakthrough time in the data sheet.
Coated safety gloves are generally offered in sizes 6 to 11, measured to EN ISO 21420. A well-fitting glove sits snugly without constricting and allows sufficient finger mobility. A size that is too large impairs grip and protection, one that is too small tires the hand. For operations, a range of sizes is recommended so that every employee receives the right size.
Common coatings are polyurethane (PU), nitrile and foam nitrile. PU offers fine tactile sensitivity and good dry grip and is suitable for fine assembly. Nitrile is abrasion-resistant and mechanically robust. Foam nitrile improves grip on slightly oily parts. The coating can cover only the palm, the palm with fingers or the entire glove, depending on the requirement for protection and breathability. Whether a coating is resistant to a specific substance must always be verified on the basis of the type classification to EN ISO 374-1 and the breakthrough time in the data sheet.
Protective gloves of Category II protect against medium risks, for example mechanical hazards to EN 388. Gloves of Category III protect against irreversible or fatal risks, for example against chemicals to EN ISO 374. Category III products are subject to additional ongoing monitoring by a notified body. The category is indicated on the glove and in the data sheet.
Disposal depends on the degree of soiling. Uncontaminated disposable gloves can generally be disposed of with residual waste. Gloves that have come into contact with oils, chemicals or hazardous substances are considered contaminated waste and must be disposed of in accordance with company specifications and the safety data sheet. Observe the waste codes and the specifications of your waste disposal company.
The CE marking indicates that the glove meets the requirements of the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425. For Category III, the CE marking is followed by the four-digit identification number of the notified body that carries out the ongoing monitoring. The marking is supplemented by the applicable pictograms and standard references such as EN 388 or EN ISO 374. The complete details can be found in the declaration of conformity and in the data sheet.
AMPri supplies the specialist trade and resellers as a wholesaler. The goods are available ex stock at the Winsen (Luhe) site; coated safety gloves and disposable nitrile gloves are offered in standard packs and cartons. For volume conditions and scale prices, request your dealer conditions via the contact form. Together we put together a suitable range for your industrial customers.
Reusable safety gloves are worthwhile for permanent protection requirements, high mechanical stress and long wearing times. Disposable nitrile gloves make sense when hygiene, frequent changing or protection against light soiling are the priority. Often a combination is the most economical: robust reusable gloves for the permanent hazard and disposable gloves for hygiene-sensitive or change-intensive workplaces.