Mechanical Hazard Gloves - EN388 Guide
Mechanical Hazard Gloves & Hand Protection Guide
If protective gloves are required and supplied as personal protective equipment (PPE), as part of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022 (PPER 2022) it must be supplied free of charge to employees, which now extends to limb (b) workers.
Before selecting protective gloves for your workers, you must conduct a risk assessment of the workplace. The results of this assessment will indicate which risks you will need to protect the hands against. This allows you to choose the most suitable hand protection for your work environment, ensuring you keep your operations running and people safe.
To help you to better understand the safety standards that surround hand protection PPE, our expert guide explains not only the BS EN388:2016 standard relating to Protective Gloves Against Mechanical Risks, but also EN407:2020 Protective Gloves Against Thermal Risk as well as EN511:2006 Protective Gloves Against Cold, to ensure you are armed with the right information to ensure your hands stay protected against the hazards faced in the workplace.
Cromwell have a wide selection of mechanical hazard gloves from our exclusive brand Halo® as well as national market leading brands Ansell, Ejendals, Polyco and ATG to ensure you are protected against mechanical hazards in the workplace.
EN 388:2016 Standard Breakdown
BS EN388 was first published by the British Standards Institution (BSI) in 1994 and subsequently revised in 2003, and again in 2016. It includes the testing assessment of the resistance of the palm area to mild abrasion, cut, tearing and puncture, and when required, impact protection. It is the overarching British standard for Protective Gloves Against Mechanical Risks.
The standard is designed to be read from left to right, with each number or letter corresponding to a rating given by testing the gloves against a specific hazard. The order will always follow as abrasion resistance, cut resistance (coupe test), tear resistance, puncture resistance, cut resistance (TDM) and impact resistance.The numbers equate to ratings, with abrasion resistance rated from 1-4, cut resistance (coupe test) from 1-5, tear resistance rated from 1-4, puncture resistance rated from 1-4 and cut resistance (TDM) being rated from A-F.
Impact resistance is denoted by the letter P. If a glove has not been tested to any of the above, the letter X will appear to denote this.
The purpose of the EN388 safety standard is to guarantee consistency across mechanical hazard gloves, by testing them all to the same level. By ranking the gloves based on their performance under various testing conditions, you can be reassured that the glove you purchase will be suited for protection against the specific hazards that exist within your workplace.
Overview of EN388:2016 Standard
The below further breaks down the individual tests within the EN388:2003 and EN388:2016 standard, and what each test entails.
1) Abrasion Resistance
The first number of the EN388:2016 standard, abrasion resistance measures how the mechanical hazard gloves hold up against abrasive tasks.
When compared with EN 388:2003, there is a technical change to the abrasion resistance method for EN 388:2016, relating to the choice of abrasive paper, but the scores that can be achieved remain unchanged.
The scores are from 1 – 4, with 4 being the highest score being able to be achieved. The test is measured by number of cycles performed before the gloves are damaged.
2) Cut Resistance (Coupe Test)
The second number in the EN388:2016 standard, the coupe test is a circular rotating blade and results are based the number of cycles the machine completes before cutting through the fabric. It was initially thought that the coupe test would be made redundant and the TDM test take precedence. However, both tests will remain but there have been changes to the coupe test from the 2003 EN 388 version to the now 2016 version.
The test has been updated from a technical standpoint for it to remain as one of the cut test options.
The score given, after achieving a certain test result using this method, remains from 1 – 5, with 5 being the highest rating to be achieved.
The numbers under each score level achieved do not equate to the number of cycles achieved. The blade cut index value is calculated from the number of cycles required to cut through the specimen and the mean number of cycles required to cut through the control material.
3) Tear Resistance
In this test (the third number in the EN388:2016 standard), specimens of material from the palm of four gloves and clamped in the jaws of a standard tensile strength testing machine. The jaws are moved apart at a constant speed (100mm/min), and the force (in newtons) needed to tear the material is measured.
The scores are from 1 – 4, with 4 being the highest score being able to be achieved.
4) Puncture Resistance
The tear resistance test uses a rounded object which is pushed 50mm into the specimen at a constant speed of 100mm/min using a compression test machine. The maximum resistance force (in newtons) is recorded. Performance levels are based on the lowest of four test results.
The scores are from 1 – 4, with 4 being the highest score being able to be achieved, and it will be the fourth number to be displayed in the EN388:2016 standard.
It is important to note that this test would not replicate the puncture resistance needed to protect against potential needlestick risks. There is currently no standard for the testing of hypodermic needles with hand protection.
We (the UK) currently align ourselves with the American ANSI standard, ASTM F2878, as there haven’t been a UK equivalent. However, this is under review as we anticipate a needlestick test will make it into future revisions of EN388. As your safety provider as soon as we are informed of such additions we will update this guide to reflect.
5) Cut Resistance (TDM Test)
The Tomodynamometer test, also referred to as the TDM-100 or TDM test is a straight blade, and the test is based on the vertical force applied in newtons until cut through takes place. The force and cut-through length are plotted on a graph and a trend line is generated. The identified force is applied to the specimen a further five times. If the results of the stroke length are within the tolerance levels, the test is then complete, and the force has been determined and given a score from A – F, F being the highest score.
This will be the fifth number displayed in the EN388:2016 standard.
It is important to note that each blade is only used once for the test, and that as it is a straight blade. It is widely thought of to be a test with more similarities to real world applications and more comparable to potential cut hazards and risks in the workplace.
6) Impact Resistance
This is a test that was not included in EN388:2003, and is used for gloves which incorporate specific impact-resistant properties which may be added to the palm, back of the hand or the knuckles.
The test area is impacted with a 2.5kg flat face striker from a sufficient height to provide impact energy of 5J. The peak force which is detected by a sensor is recorded. Four tests are carried out on specimens of each area of protection taken from four different gloves.
The test result is either a Pass “P” or Fail “X” and will be the sixth letter denoted as per the EN388:2016 standard.
Alternatively, there may no marking shown on the glove or documents at all if the glove has not been tested against impact resistance.
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Considerations when choosing Mechanical Hazard Gloves
When choosing a pair of mechanical hazard gloves, there are several important factors to consider before purchasing. By carefully taking into account these factors, you can be assured that the mechanical hazard gloves offers you the right level of protection against the hazards you may face in the workplace.
- EN388 Rating & Level of Protection Against Hazards: In order to ensure that you select the right level of protection against the hazards that you will face in your work environment, familiarise yourself with the EN388 standard and what each rating means. Read through this page and download our Expert Guide to ensure you understand what each test of the EN388 standard is comprised of and what that translates to in terms of offering protection against your specific workplace hazards. If you're unsure as to what level of protection you need from your mechanical hazard gloves, then it is advisable to perform a risk assessment in the first instance, to gain a better understanding as to which hazards you and your employees will need protection from whilst working. The steps needed to perform a risk assessment can be found here.
- Material and Durability: Look for robust and durable materials like nitrile, polyurethane (PU), leather, PVC or latex depending on your needs. For example, nitrile generally offers good puncture resistance and chemical protection, whereas polyurethane (PU) is known for delivering good dexterity and resistance to abrasion. Determine your needs first, then decide upon the best material suited for your application, ensuring that your choice aligns with protection against the hazards you will most commonly face in the workplace.
- Fit, Size & Comfort: To ensure proper protection when working, mechanical hazard gloves (and PPE generally) should fit properly, should not be restrictive and should be able to be worn for long hours of the day. When it comes to mechanical hazard gloves, ensuring that you have the right size glove that offers a good level of dexterity and movement, comfort and a secure fit balanced with the right level of protection is crucial. Check for features such as elasticated cuffs, comfortable nylon liners with moisture wicking or heat reduction control or brand specific technologies that are designed to ensure comfort even when utilising mechanical hazard gloves for extended amounts of time.
- Grip & Dexterity: Depending on your intended application, it may be vital that your mechanical hazard gloves are able to grip components whether they are wet or dry, oily or greasy. Look out for palm and fingertip coatings on mechanical hazard gloves such as polyurethane (PU) or sandy nitrile which can bolster grip.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a pair of mechanical hazard gloves that best suit your needs and offer you the right level of protection.
Risk Assesments
Conducting a thorough risk assessment is the first step in ensuring workplace safety. Identify potential hazards, evaluate the risks, and implement measures to control these risks. Regular risk assessments can help prevent accidents and create a safer working environment. Before selecting mechanical hazard gloves for your workers, you should conduct a risk assessment of the workplace. The results of this assessment will indicate which hazards you will need to protect the hands against, which in turn allows you to choose the most suitable level of EN388 rated protective gloves.
- Identify Potential Hazards: Review procedures and tasks to determine if there are hazards or risks around your workplace that could be dangerous. This can help to inform the features and level of protection that you need from you mechanical hazard gloves.
- Observe the Workplace: Observe the people working to determine the existence of unsafe or potentially unsafe conditions.
- Evaluate Risk: Identify who might be harmed by those hazards and evaluate the risk in terms of severity and likelihood.
- Establish Suitable Precautions: Implement controls and record your findings.
- Review and Re-assess: Regularly review your assessment and re-assess if necessary.
To find out more about risk assessments visit The Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Alternatively our fully qualified Technical Safety Team are always available to support you with your safety needs and are on hand to help you choose the right level of safety equipment for you and your requirements. Ask Our Experts.
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Mechanical Hazard Gloves FAQs
What does X mean when shown in place of a number rating for the EN388 standard?
The letter 'X' or 'x' is used to denote that the gloves have not been tested against that specific hazard of the EN388 standard. For example, if your mechanical hazard gloves were marked 3.1.3.1.X, the X here would denote that the gloves have not been tested against the TDM ISO cut.
We know this because of the positioning of the X in the fifth place. If the X were to have been elsewhere, it ould have denoted that a different test of the EN388 standard had not been performed on the mechanical hazard gloves.
How do I read the EN388 standard?
The EN388 standard is designed to be read in order from left to right, with each number or 'X' representing the score that the mechanical hazard gloves has been given for each test.
As detailed above, the EN388 markings will always correspond to the tests in a specific order, representing each hazard that the gloves have been tested against: Abrasion Resistance, Cut Resistance (Coupe), Tear Resistance, Puncture Resistance, Cut Resistance (TDM ISO Cut) and Impact Resistance.
How do I know whether my mechanical hazard gloves will fit me?
Ensuring your mechanical hazard gloves fit is vital to ensure the safety, comfort and dexterity of your hands whilst you work. To help you to select the right fitting glove, we've provided size guides for the leading national brands, which can help you to determine which size glove is best for you. Like most items of clothing, glove sizes can vary between brands, which is why it's vital that you check your glove size, even if you think you know it.
On top of this, in order to be compliant with the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022, you must ensure that the PPE you and your employees wear is compatible, maintained and correctly stored; this includes mechanical hazard gloves and any other PPE you are required to wear.
To find out more about the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022, visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) here.
Will a pair of mechanical hazard gloves always be tested for everything?
As per EN388, mechanical hazard gloves will almost always be tested against abrasion, puncture and tear resistance as well as one of the two cut resistance tests. However not all mechanical hazard gloves will be tested against all elements of the standard. This is largely due to the disparity between older and newer gloves; gloves tested to EN388:2003 will not have been tested against the new TDM ISO cut resistant test, and some EN388:2016 gloves may not have been tested against the coupe cut resistant test.
As well as this, a large majority of mechanical hazard gloves will not have been tested to the impact resistance test. If they have, then this will be marked with a 'P' to denote that it has passed the test or an 'X' or a blank if they have failed or not been tested against impact hazards.
How do I know what level of protection I need for each test?
The most convenient way of discerning what level of resistance you require against each of the hazards tested against with the EN388 standard, is to perform a risk assessment.
Conducting a thorough risk assessment is the first step in ensuring workplace safety, and reviewing workplace practices via a risk assessment is one of the most effective ways of preventing accidents and keeping your employees safe from harm.
To find out more about risk assessments, see our risk assessment section here, or visit The Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Alternatively our fully qualified Technical Safety Team are always available to support you with your safety needs and are on hand to help you choose the right level of safety equipment for you and your requirements. Ask Our Experts.
Mechanical Hazard Gloves Useful Resources
Ensuring safety in the workplace is a shared responsibility. To help you stay informed and up-to-date on changes or adjustments around the EN388 standard and related mechanical hazard glove legislation and best practices, we’ve compiled a list of resources that provide valuable information. These resources cover a range of topics from complying with UK regulations around PPE, the EN388 standard as outlined by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and other relevant information to help you stay informed when selecting mechanical hazard gloves.
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022 (PPER 2022)
- Legislation from the UK Government that outlines the changes to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations revised in 2022, whereby the duties and responsibilities on employers and employees were extended to limb (b) workers.
- Cromwell's Expert Guide to EN374:2016 Protective Gloves Against Dangerous Chemicals and Microorganisms
- As well as having an expert guide on the EN388:2016 standard relating to Protective Gloves Against Mechanical Risks, EN407:2020 Protective Gloves Against Thermal Risk as well as EN511:2006 Protective Gloves Against Cold, here at Cromwell we also have an expert guide on Chemical Protective Gloves.
- BS EN 388 Standard from the British Standards Institution
- The official EN388 standard as outlined by the national standards body of the UK, the British Standards Institution (BSI).
- The PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425
- The PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 replaced the Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC) from 21 April 2018. In relation to protective gloves, there are three classes of gloves for different levels of user risk; ‘minimal’, ‘intermediate’ and ‘mortal or irreversible’. Simple design refers to minimal risk gloves which may be used in low risk situations, such as general cleaning. Intermediate design refers to intermediate risks and refers to gloves which may be used to protect against intermediate risks such as mechanical protection gloves providing cut, puncture and abrasion resistance. Complex design - irreversible or mortal risk refers to gloves which are designed to protect against the highest level of risk, such as chemicals or electrical as examples.
- BS EN ISO 21420:2019 - General Requirements and Test Method for Protective Gloves
- Replacing EN 420, BS EN ISO 21420:2019 (outlined by the British Standards Institution) is the overarching standard for all protective gloves in terms of their design and construction, comfort, efficiency, test procedures and further general requirements.
- UKCA and CE Markings on Mechanical Hazard Gloves
- Due to the UK leaving the EU single market in 2020, the United Kingdom Conformity Assessed or UKCA mark was being phased in to replace the CE mark in Great Britain and was expected that CE mark would remain acceptable for a transition period ending on 31 December 2024. However, the UK Government has since 'laid legislation to continue recognition of current EU requirements, including the CE marking (Conformité Européene, or European Conformity marking). The legislation will apply indefinitely for a range of product regulations with further clarification expected in the near future.' This link outlines the UKCA and CE markings and what they mean for products placed on the UK market.
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Safety Technical Expertise
When selecting the correct safety equipment, there are various factors that must be identified and considered under the management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, to ensure you have compliant and suitable equipment. Without these, you could be putting yourself, your colleagues, and your business in danger. Our easy to follow expert guides can help you understand the different levels of protection and all the legislation that surround each type of safety equipment.
If you still have any questions, need more information, or have more bespoke needs, feel free to ask our experts. Our fully qualified Technical Safety Team are always available to support you with your safety needs and are on hand to help you choose the right level of safety equipment for you and your requirements.
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