A Guide To Glove Safety: EN 388
If you use safety gloves at home or at work, chances are you've heard about EN 388 at some point. As the European regulation governing the manufacture of safety gloves that protect against mechanical hazards, these numbered markings appear on almost all reusable gloves. So, what exactly is EN 388, how does it work, and why does it matter to you? We're hear with all the answers.
We've put together this quick and easy guide to breakdown and explain EN 388, and to showcase a few of our favourite safety gloves along the way.
What Does Our Guide Cover?
- Quick EN 388 Facts
- What Does EN 388 Mean?
- How to Read EN 388 Ratings
- Abrasion Resistance Explained
- Cut Resistance Ratings Explained
- Tear Resistance Ratings Explained
- Puncture Resistance Ratings Explained
- ISO Cut Resistance Ratings Explained
- Impact Resistance Ratings Explained
- EN 388: FAQs
- Other Protection Standards
- The Last Word...
What Is EN 388?
- EN 388 is the European equivalent of ANSI/ISEA 105
- It tests resistance to abrasion, cut, tear, puncture and impact protection gloves
- Level 4 is the maximum rating available for abrasion, tear and puncture resistance
- Cut resistance is measured up to Level 5 or Level F
- Ratings go from low to high, with a lower number (or letter) being a lesser level of protection
- If a glove is marked as "N/A" it means that they haven't been tested against a give threat
Back to Basics: What Does EN 388 MEan?
As previously mentioned, EN 388 is the certification awarded to a pair of work gloves when a specific set of mechanical hazard tests have been undertaken and passed. It ranks a gloves performance based on its success in these five different tests, giving the gloves a final score that allow the end user to be able to purchase the correct pair of gloves for their chosen risk.
We've listed each of the six different hazard tests below.
How Do I Read EN 388 Markings?
If you're wondering what those strange numbers on your gloves mean, you're not alone.
These number show the score that your gloves have been given for each of the hazards tested. You can identify an EN 388 rated glove by viewing the below symbol on the back of the gloves, in the packaging or in the conformity statement.
This is an example of an EN 388 rating you may find on a glove
To make things clearer on our website, we tabulate this information so that you can find specifically which threats your gloves protect against. See below for a translation of the above example to our style of explanation.
| Hazard | Resistance Rating |
|---|---|
| Abrasion Resistance | Level 4 |
| Cut Resistance | N/A |
| Tear Resistance | Level 4 |
| Puncture Resistance | Level 2 |
| ISO Cut Resistance | Level E |
| Impact Resistance | Pass |
ALL About Abrasion
The abrasion resistance test involves placing a glove underneath a moving blade and testing how much wear and tear it can tolerate. It will achieve a level of between 0 and 4 depending on how many cycles it took for the glove to become damaged.
Individual scores can be viewed below:
| Resistance Level | Abrasion Cycles |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Minimum of 100 cycles |
| Level 2 | Minimum of 500 cycles |
| Level 3 | Minimum of 2000 cycles |
| Level 4 | Minimum of 8000 cycles |
In Layman's Terms
The more abrasion a glove can take, the more hardwearing a glove will be. High abrasion resistant gloves are great for handling coarse materials without having your gloves fall apart.
Where to Buy
Who's Using Them?
Our Favourite Abrasion Resistant Gloves
Take a look below to see some of our best selling abrasion-resistant safety gloves.
Skytec Basalt R Black PU-Coated Precision Work Gloves
- Pair of PU coated work gloves with oil and grease resistance
- Thin design retains dexterity for precise mechanical jobs
- Anatomical shape for reduced fatigue and long term comfort
- High abrasion and good tear resistance keeps hands protected
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Portwest A622 Level C Cut-Resistant PU Coated Gloves
- Level C cut resistant lightweight and flexible handling gloves
- Designed to withstand temperatures of 100°C
- Despite price, gloves are extremely long-lasting
- Price shown is per pair of gloves
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
MaxiFlex Ultimate Palm Coated Handling Gloves 42-874B
- Pair of lightweight, grippy and extremely comfortable handling gloves
- Suited to general handling or the most precise and technical work
- Ergonomic fit and thin build maximise dexterity and reduce fatigue
- Breathable micro-foam and naturally cooling design prevent overheating
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
MaxiDry 3/4 Coated Oil-Resistant Gloves 56-425
- Oil-resistant and water-resistant handling gloves
- Best suited to damp and oily working conditions
- Strong abrasion resistance protects hands and ensures longevity
- Price is per pair of gloves
.jpg)
(1).jpg)
(2).jpg)
(3).jpg)
Portwest A350 DermiFlex Nitrile Foam Gloves
- Nylon and elastane liner provides exceptional lightweight dexterity
- Full soft nitrile foam and PU coating enhances grip in all conditions
- Suitable for general handling in oil and grease
- Price shown is per pair of gloves
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Ansell HyFlex 11-840 Abrasion-Resistant Gloves
- Price is per pair of gloves
- Tough FORTIX nitrile foam coating for abrasion resistance
- Breathable construction for cooler, drier hands
- Provides a snug fit akin to a second skin
- Enables high dexterity with enhanced comfort
All About Cut Resistance
This 2003 version of the EN 388 cut-resistance test involves a circular blade being lowered on a piece of the gloves fabric. Downward pressure of five newtons is exerted onto the garment until the blade cuts through the fabric, stopping the test and triggering an electrical sensor underneath the fabric.
The table below indicates how many cuts can be tolerated before the sensor is triggered and the test ends.
| Cut Resistance Rating | Number of Cuts Withstood |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | 1.2 Cuts |
| Level 2 | 2.5 Cuts |
| Level 3 | 5 Cuts |
| Level 4 | 10 Cuts |
| Level 5 | 20 Cuts |
In Layman's Terms
Cut resistant gloves are good for people working with knives and blades, as well as those handling sharp edges. The higher the level of cut resistance, the more protection your hands are given against cuts and lacerations.
Where to Buy
Who'S Using Them?
- Aerospace
- Builders
- Construction
- Blade Handling
- Glass Manufacturing
- Metal Handling
- Metal Fabrication
- Sheet Steel Manufacturing
Our Favourite Cut-Resistant Gloves
We've put together a short list of of cut-resistant gloves that are tried and tested by our customers. If you haven't found a pair that work for you, don't worry. Click the button below them to see our complete range.
Skytec Sapphire XTREME Cut and Puncture Resistant Gloves
- Pair of lightweight work gloves with ultra fine liner for increased sensitivity
- High level puncture, abrasion, tear and cut, plus contact heat up to 100°C
- Seamless liner and breathable, flexible design for long lasting term comfort
- Micro-foam coating retains hand dexterity and gives you an excellent grip
.jpg)
.jpg)
Ejendals Tegera 455 Level 5 Cut Resistant Fine Assembly Gloves
- Price is per pair
- Water and oil repellent palm for use in wet or greasy environments
- Level 5 cut resistance
- Suitable for assembly and carpentry
MaxiCut Ultra 44-3745 Cut-Resistant Palm-Coated Grip Gloves
- Pair of flexible and thin cut gloves with versatile protection
- Ideal for fine handling with sharp materials in dry environments
- Palm coating has a micro-cup finish to ensure powerful grip
- Form-fitting and ergonomic design for comfort and sensitivity
.jpg)
TraffiGlove TG5070 Thermal Cut-Resistant Safety Gloves
- Cold weather work gloves with high cut resistance
- X-dura latex palms offer fantastic grip and protection
- Single layer design retains dexterity for precise work
- Brushed acrylic liner for lasting warmth and comfort
.jpg)
Showa S-Tex KV3 Latex Coated Cut Level 5 Gloves
- Price is per pair of gloves
- Highly cut resistant gloves with good grip
- Latex coating protects against detergents and alcohol
- Available in four sizes to fit most users
All About Tear Resistance
Tear-resistance is gauged by clamping a glove in between two separate vices which are gradually moved apart. These jaws are moved apart at a constant speed and the amount of force required to tear or rip the garments fibres is measured, awarding it one of four different level ratings.
| Tear Resistance | Tear Force (Newtons) |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | 10N |
| Level 2 | 25N |
| Level 3 | 50N |
| Level 4 | 75N |
In Layman's Terms
Similarly to Abrasion Resistance, Tear Resistance is great for gauging the longevity of a pair of work gloves. Pairs with a higher tear resistance, are less likely to be snagged or ripped during use, saving you from having to replace your gloves.
Where to Buy
WHO'S USING THEM?
Our Favourite Tear-Resistant Safety Gloves
If you're in the market for gloves that are built to last, look no further. Built with robust and resilient fibres that won't split, tear, pull apart or rip, we've got you covered below.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
Skytec Ninja Silver+ Abrasion and Tear Resistant Work Gloves
- Pair of flexible, abrasion and tear resistant safety gloves
- PU palms offer fantastic grip in wet, dry and oily conditions
- Glass yarn knitted liner for protective and comfortable liner
- Ideal for range of industries like engineering, assembly and more
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Portwest A100 Latex Orange Grip Gloves
- Feature a crinkle latex coating for enhanced grip
- Polyester and cotton liner ensures mechanical protection
- Breathable design keeps hands cool during use
- Price shown is per pair of gloves
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Showa 330 Re-Grip Gloves
- Price is per pair of gloves
- Latex coated for enhanced durability
- Comfortable seamless cotton/polyester liner
- Available in four sizes to fit most users
Ejendals Tegera 432 Fine Assembly Gloves
- Price is per pair of gloves
- Palm-coated fine assembly gloves
- High levels of flexibility, grip and comfort
- Excellent abrasion and tear resistance
.jpg)
.jpg)
Portwest A185 Thermal Latex Orange and Blue Gloves
- Features an extra layer of latex for added protection
- Polyester liner provides exceptional cold protection
- Impressive grip makes them ideal for handling
- Price shown is per pair of gloves
All About Puncture Resistance
A gloves puncture resistance is gauged by applying a standard rounded stylus to the gloves palm fabric. The stylus is pushed 50mm into the glove at a constant speed of 100mm per minute using a specially formulated "compression-test machine".
Maximum resistance force before breakage is then recorded, determining one of four different levels that are shown below.
| Resistance Level | Puncture Force (Newtons) |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | 20N |
| Level 2 | 60N |
| Level 3 | 100N |
| Level 4 | 150N |
In Layman's Terms
Puncture resistant gloves are less likely to get snagged or to get holes in them. Higher levels of puncture resistance do not protect against very sharp punctures, such as those from needles, for example.
Where to Buy
Who's Using Them?
Our Favourite Puncture Resistant Safety Gloves
If you're working with sharp edges and blades, you need to guard against punctures. See a few of our favourites below. If you can see what you're after, simply click the button below these products to see our full range.
.jpg)
Polyco Rigmaster Double Palm Chrome Rigger Gloves LR143DP
- Price is per pair of Polyco durable rigger gloves
- Ideal for handling, warehousing, logistics, automotives, rigging and more
- Good all round mechanical protection for handling tasks
- Special vein patch offers protection in key areas
.jpg)
Polyco Multi-Task E C5 Cut Resistant MTEC5 Gloves
- Allows freedom of movement for improved comfort
- Flexible thermoplastic protection reduces impact
- Features a nitrile palm coating for added grip
- Price is per pair
TraffiGlove TG6240 LXT Cut Level E Heat-Resistant Gloves
- Gloves with heat resistance up to 100°C
- Protects against cuts, abrasion, tears and punctures
- Durable design suitable for use with oil and water
- Price is per pair of gloves
All About ISO Cut Resistance
The second cut-resistance test is a little different to the first. Reformulated in 2016, this second test was introduced to address the problem of "blade dulling" which meant the circular blade used in the first test began to smoothen out, making it too easy to achieve a high resistance rating.
This 2016 version of the test (labelled ISO Cut Resistance" in our tables) uses a single, straight-blade that is repeatedly "drawn across" the glove until cut-through takes place. This new tests removes the issue with blade "blunting" that the original 2003 version had.
| ISO Cut Resistance | Force Tolerated (Newtons) |
|---|---|
| Level A | Up to 2N |
| Level B | Up to 5N |
| Level C | Up to 10N |
| Level D | Up to 15N |
| Level E | Up to 22N |
| Level F | Up to 30N |
In Layman's Terms
ISO Cut is a new way of measuring cuts that is more similar to the threats you could face at work. Whereas the old cut resistance ratings went from 1 to 5, there are 6 levels of the new ISO Cut rating. Level C is roughly equivalent to an old Level 5, and the levels above this offer an easier way to find extremely cut-resistant gloves.
Where to Buy
Who's Using Them?
Our Favourite ISO Cut-Resistance Safety Gloves
ISO Cut Resistance is the newer of the two cut resistant tests. It provides a better, more comprehensive rating overall.
If you're looking for cut-resistant gloves, the ISO rating is the rating to look for, with Level D,E, and F being the most resistant of the available ratings.
MaxiCut Ultra 44-3745 Cut-Resistant Palm-Coated Grip Gloves
- Pair of flexible and thin cut gloves with versatile protection
- Ideal for fine handling with sharp materials in dry environments
- Palm coating has a micro-cup finish to ensure powerful grip
- Form-fitting and ergonomic design for comfort and sensitivity
Skytec Sapphire XTREME Cut and Puncture Resistant Gloves
- Pair of lightweight work gloves with ultra fine liner for increased sensitivity
- High level puncture, abrasion, tear and cut, plus contact heat up to 100°C
- Seamless liner and breathable, flexible design for long lasting term comfort
- Micro-foam coating retains hand dexterity and gives you an excellent grip
Predator Emerald Cut Level C Safety Gloves PUUH
- Price is per pair
- Azura fabric provides maximum level of cut protection
- One piece cotton liner for added comfort and protection
- High level of abrasion resistance for peace of mind when handling abrasive materials
TraffiGlove TG6010 Cut-Resistant Utility Gloves
- Price is per pair of gloves
- Steel enthused anti-cut gloves for high risk environments
- X-Dura PU palm dipped coating for stronger grip
- Seamless knitted 15 gauge liner for enhanced breathability
MCR Safety CT1014NF Nitrile Foam Kevlar Level 5 Cut Resistant Gloves
- Price is per pair
- Made from cut resistant Kevlar
- Nitrile foam coating gives great grip in dry, wet and oily conditions
- Additional steel improves durability
All About Impact
Impact resistance is a little difference. The glove will either achieve a Level P (standing for "Pass") or it won't be present, meaning that most gloves won't show the results for impact resistance.
In Layman's Terms
Impact resistant gloves are great if you are forever banging the back of your hands while working. They feature shock-absorbing pads that reduce the impact that is passed onto your hand.
Where to Buy
Who's Using Them?
Our Favourite Impact-Resistant Safety Gloves
Impact is the rarest of the ratings and is reserved for gloves typically used in demolition and niche construction environments. See below for a select of our best sellers, or alternatively click the button underneath to view our complete range of impact-resistant safety gloves.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Skytec Torq Cyclone Abrasion- and Impact-Resistant Oil Grip Gloves
- Impact resistant safety gloves with excellent grip in oily conditions
- Highly protective with double nitrile and strong abrasion resistance
- Ergonomic lining is comfortable and retains precise hand dexterity
- Made for dangerous jobs involving oil and grease like drilling and mining
.jpg)
.jpg)
HexArmor Rig Lizard 2021X Hi-Vis Impact-Resistant Heavy-Duty Gloves
- Impact and cut-resistant heat resistant work gloves
- For high risk work like extrication, mining, mechanics, oil and gas and more
- Hi-vis for dark weather and oil and water resistant
- 250°C contact-heat protection when handling material
.jpg)
(1).jpg)
Portwest A729 Grey and Black Anti-Impact Cut Resistant Thermal Work Gloves
- Pair of impact-resistant gloves with thermo plastic rubber
- Ideal for manual handling in cold environments
- Provides EN 388 Level C cut protection
- Low linting material prevents contamination
.jpg)
.jpg)
HexArmor 2131 Hex1 Hi-Vis Reinforced Impact Resistant Gloves
- Incredible protection against impacts, bumps and high force damage
- Essential wear for machinists and high-impact, heavy-duty handling
- TP-X palm and back guard the hand against impact
- Reinforced index finger and thumb for safety when operating machinery
Your Questions Answered: EN 388
Below you can see our answers to some of the most common questions we get about EN 388:
What Is the Difference Between the Two Cut Tests?
The main difference is that the circular blade test is performed with a rotating blade and the ISO cut test uses a straight, non-rotating blade that is placed downward onto the glove. The straight blade is the newer and stricter standard because the blade used in the older test would get blunted during the test.
You can view Our Top Cut 5 Gloves here.
Will a GLove Be Tested for Everything?
A glove will usually be tested for at least abrasion, puncture, tear and one of the cut resistances. Newer gloves are often not tested using the old circular cut test, and older gloves haven't always been retested to the newer straight cut test. Furthermore, only a minority of gloves have been tested to the impact resistant tests.
What If a Glove Fails a Test?
If a glove fails a test it will achieve a Level 0.
Can Disposable Gloves Be Tested to EN 388?
Very few, if any, of our Single Use Gloves are tested to EN 388, simply because they would fail every single test. If you want to understand the qualities of a disposable glove, then looking into EN 455 and EN 374 might be the best bet.
Are All Reusable Gloves Tested to EN 388?
Not all of our Reusable Gloves will be tested to EN 388. For example, some of our Gardening, Rigger, Cotton and some low risk Handling Gloves might not have been tested to this standard. This doesn't mean that they are useless, rather that they are better suited to low risk work.
Other Standards Explained
To view similar in depth guides on a range of other protective standards, click any of the links below:
- Cold-Resistant Gloves - EN 511 Explained
- Chemical Resistant Gloves - EN 374 Explained
- Heat-Resistant Gloves - EN 407 Explained
Where Can I Buy EN 388 Gloves?
You can purchase EN 388 gloves across our website. We would recommend looking at the Abrasion Resistant, Cut Resistant, Puncture Resistant and Tear Resistant gloves categories for the top gloves in each area.
Have any questions, or anything to add? Tell us in the comments below, or find us on Facebook and Twitter!
