What does the EN 388 standard mean for protective gloves? Complete technical guide for professionals.

In the field of occupational safety in Europe, hand protection is not an option but a strictly regulated requirement. The EN 388 standard is the reference standard that dictates whether a glove is suitable for protecting a worker against mechanical risks. In this technical guide from Sekureco.eu, we analyze every detail of the update EN 388:2016+A1:2018, essential for prevention technicians and purchasing managers.

The evolution of hand safety: EN 388 standard

The EN 388 regulation has evolved to adapt to new material technologies, with the emergence of high-tech fibers (such as HPPE or stainless steel), which made the old "Couptest" insufficient. The current version, EN 388:2016+A1:2018, ensures that a glove marked as "cut-resistant" truly is under constant pressure conditions, eliminating uncertainty in high-risk environments such as metallurgy or recycling.

Technical explanation: the 6-character code

Under the pictogram of the EN 388 shield, you will find a series of numbers and letters. Each position represents a resistance test that the glove has passed in certified laboratories. Here we explain each of the levels.

1. Abrasion resistance (Levels 1 to 4)

This test is performed using a Martindale abrasion machine. A sample of the glove is placed under a specified pressure and subjected to rubbing cycles with sandpaper.

• Level 4: The glove withstands more than 8,000 cycles before being pierced.

• Application: Essential for handling aggregates, construction, and bricklaying.

2. Cut resistance by circular blade (Couptest) (Levels 1 to 5)

This measures the number of cycles needed to cut the sample with a circular blade rotating at a constant speed.

• Limitation: if the blade dulls due to contact with materials such as fiberglass or steel threads, the result is marked with an X and must be mandatory passed to the TDM test (letter).

3. Tear resistance (Levels 1 to 4)

The force required (in Newtons) to tear a sample that has already been cut is measured.

• Technical data: this aspect is vital in knitted gloves, as an accidental tear can instantly expose the skin. However, in work with rotary machines, a tear level of 4 can be dangerous due to the risk of entrapment.

4. Puncture resistance (Levels 1 to 4)

The force required to penetrate the glove with a standardized steel tip is evaluated.

• Warning: this test measures resistance against thick sharp objects (such as a nail or a wood splinter), but does not certify protection against hypodermic needles. For medical punctures, the specific ASTM F2878 standard is required.

5. TDM cut resistance (ISO 13997) (Letters A to F)

This is the crown jewel of the 2016 update. A straight blade is used that moves only once over the glove with different levels of pressure. It is measured in Newtons (N):

6. Impact protection (P)

If the glove has reinforcements on the back to prevent fractures from impacts, a P will appear. If nothing appears, the glove does not offer certified impact protection.

When to use each level of the EN 388 standard: sector analysis

Not all jobs require a level 4 of puncture resistance or a level F of cut resistance. Overprotection can reduce dexterity and cause fatigue.

• Glass and mirror industry: here the risk is cuts from sliding. It is mandatory to look for gloves with TDM Level E or F.

• Logistics and picking: the main risk is abrasion from constant contact with cardboard boxes. A glove marked 4131X is ideal, prioritizing level 4 in the first position.

• Mechanics and workshops: puncture resistance and good grip in oils are required. A sandy nitrile glove marked 4121A is usually the standard.

Material comparison: What's inside the glove?

To reach the levels of EN 388, manufacturers use technical fibers that we at Sekureco.eu carefully select:

1. HPPE (High-Performance Polyethylene): is the base fiber for cut-resistant gloves. It is lightweight, cool, and reaches levels C or D in the TDM test.

2. Kevlar® (Aramid): excellent for cut resistance (Level C/D) and adds thermal resistance. Ideal for environments where mechanical friction is accompanied by heat.

3. Stainless steel fibers: are interwoven with HPPE to achieve levels E and F. They are heavier but impenetrable to sharp edges.

4. Coatings (Palm):

• Polyurethane (PU): for maximum sensitivity and touch.

• Nitrile: improves resistance to oils and maximum abrasion.

• Latex: for unbeatable grip on wet or rough surfaces.

How to care for gloves with EN 388 protection

To protect the certification, it is ideal to be informed about the lifespan and maintenance of work gloves. A common mistake is washing cut-resistant gloves aggressively. On the other hand, the use of bleach or high temperatures can degrade HPPE fibers, causing a Level D glove to behave like a Level B without it being noticeable at first glance.

• Washing: use cold water or a maximum of 30°C with neutral detergent.

• Visual inspection: before each workday, the worker must check for any "bald spots" in the palm coating or loose threads.

• Storage: away from direct sunlight, as UV rays degrade fibers like Kevlar®.

Examples of products on Sekureco.eu

In our catalog, we categorize gloves according to their mechanical performance to facilitate purchasing:

• Gloves for General Mechanical Risk: Models with nylon support and PU coating, ideal for meeting basic levels (3121X). Check the model Stretch Utility Black PORTWEST A775

• Technical Cut-Resistant Range: Gloves that integrate TDM technology and are available in our Cut-Resistant Gloves category.

• Impact Protection: Models with TPR on the back, certified with the final "P" for mining and oil work. Check the Impac Driver model from Portwest.

The safety of your hands depends on an informed choice. At Sekureco.eu we have the widest stock in Europe with EN 388:2016 certification. Don't take chances with gloves without clear CE marking.

Explore our catalog of Mechanical Protection Gloves or contact us for further advice.

Frequently asked questions about gloves against mechanical risks EN 388

1. Does a glove with EN 388 protect against electric saw cuts?

No. High-speed mechanical saws require gloves with the EN ISO 11393 standard, which includes fiber blocking layers to stop the chain.

2. What does it mean if a glove has an 'X' in the fourth position?

It means that the glove has not been tested for puncture resistance, generally because its design (such as a very open mesh glove) is not suitable for that specific test.

3. Does the abrasion level affect breathability?

Generally yes. A level 4 of abrasion usually requires a thicker coating of nitrile or latex, which reduces ventilation compared to a level 2 glove.

4. How do I know if my glove complies with the 2016 version or the old one?

To verify the version of the glove, check the pictogram. If it only has 4 numbers below, it is the old version (2003). If it has 4 numbers and a letter (or an X), it is the updated version from 2016.