Glove protection is essential in various industrial and
occupational settings to ensure the safety and well-being of workers. Different types of gloves are designed to protect against specific hazards, and they are typically classified and tested according to European standards. Here are descriptions of four common types of glove protection based on different EN (European Norm) standards:
Cut-Resistant Gloves (EN388):
EN388 is the European standard used to assess the cut resistance of gloves. These gloves are designed to protect against sharp objects, blades, and cutting hazards.
Cut-resistant gloves feature materials like high-performance fibres such as Kevlar, stainless steel woven into the glove's fabric.
They are ideal for industries where workers handle sharp tools or work with materials that pose a risk of cuts, such as construction, metalworking, and glass handling.
General Protection Gloves (EN420):
EN420 is a standard that defines the general requirements for protective gloves, including sizing, comfort, and dexterity.
General protection gloves are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications where basic hand protection is required.
These gloves are suitable for tasks like light assembly, handling small objects, and general maintenance work.
Cold and Water-Resistant Gloves (EN511):
EN511 is the standard used for gloves designed to protect against cold and water hazards. These gloves are commonly used in cold, wet, or icy environments.
Cold and water-resistant gloves often have insulating materials like and waterproof coatings to keep hands warm and dry.
They are crucial for workers in industries such as fishing, outdoor construction, and cold storage facilities.
Chemical-Resistant Gloves (EN374):
EN374 is the European standard for gloves designed to protect against chemical and biological hazards.
Chemical-resistant gloves are made from materials like neoprene, nitrile, latex, or PVC, which protect against various chemicals, acids, and solvents.
These gloves are essential in industries such as laboratory work, chemical manufacturing, and the handling of hazardous materials.
When selecting gloves for specific tasks, it is essential to consider the appropriate standard and match the glove type to the specific hazards encountered in the workplace. Properly chosen gloves can significantly reduce the risk of hand injuries and ensure the safety of workers.
