EN ISO 374-1
EN ISO 374-1 is the foundational standard in the 374 series for gloves protecting against chemical hazards. It sets terminology, performance requirements, and classification for gloves providing protection against hazardous liquid chemicals.
The standard defines three protection types based on the number of test chemicals passed and the permeation class achieved (measured per EN 16523-1):
- Type A: at least 6 test chemicals passed at Class 2 (breakthrough time ≥30 minutes) or higher
- Type B: at least 3 test chemicals passed at Class 2 or higher
- Type C: at least 1 test chemical passed at Class 1 (breakthrough time ≥10 minutes)
The 18 standard test chemicals are defined in EN ISO 374-1. Gloves protecting against specific chemicals are labelled accordingly with letter codes (A–T; the series comprises 18 test chemicals).
All chemical-resistant gloves under EN ISO 374 are PPE Category III and require Notified Body involvement. EN ISO 374-1 encompasses protection against micro-organisms, further specified in EN ISO 374-5.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between EN ISO 374-1 Type A, Type B, and Type C?
Type A offers the highest protection: ≥6 test chemicals at permeation Class ≥2 (breakthrough ≥30 min). Type B: ≥3 chemicals, Class ≥2. Type C: ≥1 chemical, Class ≥1 (breakthrough ≥10 min). Higher type = greater protection.
Why are all EN ISO 374 gloves PPE Category III?
Chemical-resistant gloves protect against serious and potentially irreversible health risks. The PPE Regulation classifies this protection scope as Category III, mandating a Notified Body in the conformity assessment.
What is the difference between permeation and penetration in EN ISO 374?
Penetration (EN ISO 374-2) is the movement of a chemical through visible defects such as holes or tears. Permeation (EN 16523-1) is diffusion at molecular level through the intact glove material – without visible damage.