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A Guide To Glove Safety: EN 388

1 Comment6 December 2022

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?


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.

EN 388:2016 Example
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

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
In stock now  In stock now

Portwest A622 Level C Cut-Resistant PU Coated Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now

MaxiFlex Ultimate Palm Coated Handling Gloves 42-874B

MaxiFlex Ultimate Palm Coated Handling Gloves 42-874B

  • Price is per pair of gloves
  • Lightweight handling gloves for precision and general handling tasks
  • Balanced between sensitivity and strength for control and safety
  • Designed to offer grip, longevity and comfort
In stock now  In stock now

MaxiDry 3/4 Coated Oil-Resistant Gloves 56-425

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
In stock now  In stock now

Portwest A350 DermiFlex Nitrile Foam Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now

Ansell HyFlex 11-840 Abrasion-Resistant Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now


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?

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

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
In stock now  In stock now

Ejendals Tegera 455 Level 5 Cut Resistant Fine Assembly Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now

MaxiCut Ultra 44-3745 Cut-Resistant Palm-Coated Grip Gloves

MaxiCut Ultra 44-3745 Cut-Resistant Palm-Coated Grip Gloves

  • Price is per pair
  • All-round breathable cut-resistant gloves
  • Level 4 cut resistance for great protection
  • Offers grip, flexibility and dexterity in dry environments
In stock now  In stock now

TraffiGlove TG5070 Thermal Cut-Resistant Safety Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now

Showa S-Tex KV3 Latex Coated Cut Level 5 Gloves

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
In stock now  In stock now


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.

    Skytec Ninja Silver+ Abrasion and Tear Resistant Work Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Portwest A100 Latex Orange Grip Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Showa 330 Re-Grip Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Ejendals Tegera 432 Fine Assembly Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Portwest A185 Thermal Latex Orange and Blue Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now


    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.

    Polyco Rigmaster Double Palm Chrome Rigger Gloves LR143DP

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Polyco Multi-Task E C5 Cut Resistant MTEC5 Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    TraffiGlove TG6240 LXT Cut Level E Heat-Resistant Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now


    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

    MaxiCut Ultra 44-3745 Cut-Resistant Palm-Coated Grip Gloves

    • Price is per pair
    • All-round breathable cut-resistant gloves
    • Level 4 cut resistance for great protection
    • Offers grip, flexibility and dexterity in dry environments
    In stock now  In stock now

    Skytec Sapphire XTREME Cut and Puncture Resistant Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Predator Emerald Cut Level C Safety Gloves PUUH

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    TraffiGlove TG6010 Cut-Resistant Utility Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    MCR Safety CT1014NF Nitrile Foam Kevlar Level 5 Cut Resistant Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now


    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.

    Skytec Torq Cyclone Abrasion- and Impact-Resistant Oil Grip Gloves

    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 
    In stock now  In stock now

    HexArmor Rig Lizard 2021X Hi-Vis Impact-Resistant Heavy-Duty Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now

    Portwest A729 Grey and Black Anti-Impact Cut Resistant Thermal Work Gloves

    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
    Usually dispatched in 1 - 5 working days (Due to a warehouse update, some orders are currently being slightly delayed)  Usually dispatched in 1 - 5 working days (Due to a warehouse update, some orders are currently being slightly delayed)

    HexArmor 2131 Hex1 Hi-Vis Reinforced Impact Resistant Gloves

    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
    In stock now  In stock now


    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, RiggerCotton 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:


    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!