In brief 💡
The EN 388 standard certifies the resistance of protective gloves against mechanical risks: abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, and impact. This European certification assesses performance according to specific indices (0 to 5) and guides the choice of suitable PPE. The EN 388:2016+A1:2018 version introduces more rigorous tests, including the ISO 13997 protocol for measuring cut resistance. This standard guarantees reliable equipment to effectively protect workers exposed to mechanical hazards.
Do you work with your hands in demanding environments? You know that choosing the right gloves can mean the difference between a productive day and an accident that changes everything. The EN 388 standard is your safety guide for navigating the hundreds of models available on the market.
This European certification rigorously tests each glove according to five specific criteria. It transforms complex technical data into easy-to-understand ratings. No more guesswork: you know exactly what level of protection you are getting.
At G-Heat, we support professionals like you every day in choosing their protective equipment. Our expertise goes beyond ratings: we understand your on-the-job constraints, your dexterity needs, and your work environment. Because good PPE is PPE that protects without limiting your performance.
The basics of the EN 388 standard for protective gloves
Definition and scope of the standard
The EN 388 standard establishes performance requirements for all gloves designed to protect against mechanical risks in Europe. This certification applies exclusively to personal protective equipment for the hands, from gardening gloves to the most technical industrial models.
This standard covers five essential types of mechanical resistance, and each test faithfully reproduces real-life conditions:
- abrasion, which gradually wears down the material
- cutting by sharp objects
- tearing under stress
- perforation by pointed objects
- impact against shocks.
Professionals in construction, maintenance, industry, and all sectors exposed to mechanical hazards must be equipped with certified gloves. This legal requirement protects users and makes employers responsible for the compliance of the equipment they provide.
Mechanical risks covered by this certification
- Abrasion is the most common risk: it occurs during repeated friction against rough surfaces. Construction materials, handling metal parts, or contact with tools generate this progressive wear that weakens protection.
- Cuts are the most serious hazard: blades, sharp edges, glass shards, or metal chips can cause instant cuts. The metallurgy, glass and machining sectors are particularly exposed to this critical risk.
- Tearing and perforation complete this range of mechanical hazards. The former occurs under stretching stress, the latter on contact with points or nails. Impact, the fifth criterion, assesses resistance to shocks on the back of the hands.
Regulatory changes to the standard: from the old to the new version
The EN 388:2016+A1:2018 version definitively replaces the old EN 388:2003 standard as of January 2023. This major transition strengthens testing requirements and introduces more precise evaluation protocols to better protect users.
The main change concerns the cut resistance test: the old single Couptest protocol has been replaced by two complementary methods. This dual approach ensures a more reliable assessment of actual performance, particularly for innovative materials.
Manufacturers had a transition period until 2023 to adapt their certifications. Now, all gloves sold must comply with the new regulations. This update better protects professionals by eliminating the inaccuracies of the previous version.
Decoding the EN 388 pictogram and its indices
Understanding the symbols and numbers on the marking
The EN 388 pictogram is a hammer striking an anvil, the universal symbol for protection against mechanical risks. Below this image, a series of 4 to 6 numbers and letters indicate the performance levels for each type of resistance tested.
These indices follow a specific order: abrasion, cut resistance, tear resistance, puncture resistance, and then optionally ISO 13997 cut resistance and impact resistance. Each position corresponds to a specific test, and the absence of an index indicates either that a test was not performed or that performance was insufficient.
| Position | Resistance Test | Rating Scale | Practical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Abrasion | 0 to 4 | Friction durability |
| 2nd | Cut (CoupTest) | 0 to 5 or X | Resistance to light blades |
| 3rd | Tear | 0 to 4 | Tensile strength |
| 4th | Puncture | 0 to 4 | Protection against sharp points |
| 5th | Cut (ISO 13997) | A to F | Resistance to heavy blades |
| 6th | Impact | P or blank | Back-of-hand protection |
The 6 levels of protection assessed
Abrasion resistance measures how many rub cycles the glove can withstand before perforation. Level 1 corresponds to a minimum of 100 cycles, while level 4 requires 8,000 cycles. This scale helps you choose the right glove for the intended use.
Cut resistance now uses two complementary scales. The Couptest (indexes 0 to 5) is suitable for standard materials, while the ISO 13997 method (letters A to F) evaluates highly resistant materials that the Couptest cannot determine.
Tear and puncture tests follow a similar logic: the higher the index, the greater the resistance. These criteria guide the choice according to the specific constraints of each professional activity or personal use.
How to correctly interpret the ratings for your activity
For light handling or gardening activities, choose modest ratings (2-2-2-2) that offer sufficient protection without compromising dexterity. These levels are ideal for everyday tasks without major risks.
Occupations exposed to cuts require high ratings in positions 2 and 5. A glove marked 4-X-3-2-C-P indicates excellent protection against sharp objects, as assessed according to the ISO 13997 protocol (level C), which is more reliable than the Couptest.
💡 Our expert advice: never settle for the minimum level required. Always choose a rating higher than your basic requirements: this safety margin compensates for gradual wear and tear and unforeseen situations in your workplace.
Mechanical resistance tests explained
The abrasion test: measuring the durability of the material
The abrasion protocol reproduces everyday wear and tear through repetitive rubbing. A glove sample is rubbed against abrasive paper under constant pressure, simulating the real conditions of handling rough objects.
The machine counts the cycles until the material is completely perforated. This objective data can be used to predict the glove's lifespan based on the intensity of use. Modern synthetic materials often reach levels 3 or 4, surpassing traditional leather.
This measurement guides economic choices: a level 4 glove is more expensive to purchase but needs to be replaced less often. For professionals, this superior durability reduces overall costs and limits work interruptions.
The two methods for evaluating cut resistance
The Couptest uses a rotating circular blade that moves back and forth across the sample under increasing load.
This traditional method works well for conventional materials but has its limitations with high-performance fibers, which quickly blunt the blade.
The ISO 13997 method uses a new straight blade for each test, eliminating the blunting bias. It measures the force required to cut the sample over a defined distance. This more accurate approach is gradually becoming the benchmark.
After seven years of expertise in thermal protective equipment, we have found that 60% of cut accidents occur with undersized gloves. The new EN 388:2016+A1:2018 standard finally corrects these inaccuracies by introducing the more reliable ISO 13997 test.
— Gwenaël Fournet, Product Expert at G-Heat
Tear, puncture, and impact tests
The tear test evaluates resistance to the propagation of an initial cut. The pre-cut sample is stretched until it breaks completely. This measurement indicates how the glove reacts to a tear: does it tear immediately or does it resist?
The puncture test uses a standardized spike that pierces the sample at a constant speed. The maximum force before puncture determines the rating. This test simulates contact with nails, thorns, or other sharp objects commonly found on construction sites.
The optional impact test strikes the back of the glove with a standardized weight. Only gloves that pass this test can display the “P” marking. This additional protection is suitable for activities where hands are at risk of violent impacts.
The evolution of EN 388:2016+A1:2018: what has changed
Major changes compared to the old standard
The 2018 revision introduces stricter minimum performance requirements. A glove must now achieve at least level 1 in at least one of the four basic tests to be certified. This rule eliminates ineffective equipment from the market.
Manufacturers must now document their test protocols in detail and maintain a more rigorous quality system. This traceability improves the reliability of certifications and facilitates compliance checks by notified bodies.
Labeling becomes more informative with the requirement to indicate limitations of use and special precautions. These statements help users understand the optimal conditions of use and avoid dangerous misuse.
The new ISO 13997 test for cut resistance
ISO 13997 revolutionizes the assessment of cut resistance by using a straight blade that is replaced for each test. This approach eliminates the problem of blunting that distorted the results of the Couptest, particularly for high-performance materials.
The classification now uses letters A to F, where F represents the maximum level of protection. This broader scale allows for a more detailed differentiation between the performances of the most resistant materials, which was impossible with the old system limited to five levels.
When a material blunts the Couptest blade too quickly, the letter “X” replaces the numerical index and refers to the ISO 13997 result. This logic guarantees reliable information on the actual protective capabilities.
Impact on PPE certification and marketing
Notified bodies now apply stricter controls on certification files. They check the consistency between test results and industrial production conditions. This vigilance improves the average quality of gloves on the market.
The transition period ended in January 2023: all gloves sold must comply with the new standard. Old stocks can no longer be sold, even if they remain usable until they are completely worn out.
⚠️ The pitfall of the old standard: using gloves certified according to EN 388:2003 can create a false sense of security. The cut levels of the old version often overestimated actual performance, particularly for modern materials.
Practical guide to choosing gloves according to EN 388
Adapt the level of protection to your work environment
An analysis of the risks associated with your job determines the minimum requirements.
- Observe your daily movements: do you handle rough objects (abrasion)?
- Sharp objects (cuts)?
- Live materials (tears)?
These observations will guide you in choosing the appropriate levels.
Humid or oily environments affect the performance of materials. Some gloves lose up to 30% of their cut resistance in wet conditions. Check that your model maintains its performance in your actual conditions of use.
The frequency of use also influences your choice: intensive use justifies higher ratings to compensate for accelerated wear. For occasional use, moderate levels are sufficient while maintaining the dexterity required for delicate tasks.
Comparison table of recommended ratings by sector of activity
Each professional sector has specific risk profiles that guide the choice of particular combinations of ratings. This sector-based approach simplifies the choice by offering references that have been proven in the field.
- Construction and heavy work: focus on abrasion (level 3-4) to withstand rough materials such as concrete or cinder blocks
- Metalworking and machining: focus on ISO 13997 cut (level C-E) for chips and sharp edges
- Industrial maintenance: balances all criteria (3-3-3-3) for versatility
- Logistics and handling: focus on abrasion and tear resistance (3-2-3-2) for repetitive handling
- Glass work: maximum cut resistance (5 or F) with impact resistance (P) for shocks to the hands
Balance protection and dexterity according to the tasks to be performed
Dexterity generally decreases with increased protection: highly resistant gloves are often thicker and stiffer. This constraint requires finding the right balance between safety and performance according to your priority tasks.
Precision work (electronics, fine assembly) requires thin gloves with moderate protection (2-2-2-1) that preserve tactile sensitivity. Conversely, rough tasks (demolition, earthworks) can tolerate maximum protection without compromising performance.
Our support never stops at the product: we analyze your movements, your environment, and your constraints to guide you toward the optimal solution. Because unsuitable PPE means increased risk and reduced comfort.
— Édouard Castaignet, CEO and co-founder of G-Heat
Legal obligations and responsibilities regarding PPE
What the law says for employers
The Labor Code requires employers to provide free personal protective equipment appropriate to the identified risks. This obligation is accompanied by the responsibility to train employees in its correct use and to check that it is actually worn.
The occupational risk assessment must precisely document the mechanical hazards present at each workstation. This analysis justifies the choice of EN 388 protection levels and demonstrates the preventive measures taken in the event of an inspection.
The maintenance and replacement of PPE is also the responsibility of the employer. Worn or damaged gloves lose their certified performance and expose the employer to criminal penalties in the event of an accident.
The rights and duties of users
Every employee has the right to receive equipment that is compliant, in good condition, and suited to their body type. They may refuse to work if the PPE provided is clearly inadequate or defective, in accordance with the right to withdraw from work in the event of serious and imminent danger.
In return, the use of PPE becomes mandatory as soon as it is made available by the employer. Failure to wear PPE constitutes a disciplinary offense, even if the employee considers the protection excessive or hindering to their work.
First-level maintenance is the responsibility of the user: regular cleaning, proper storage, reporting of damage. This shared responsibility ensures that protective equipment remains effective throughout its service life.
Inspection and verification of equipment compliance
Notified bodies carry out regular checks at manufacturers' premises to verify that certified quality is maintained. These audits cover production processes, laboratory tests, and the traceability of raw materials used.
In the field, the labor inspectorate checks that PPE is compliant and appropriate for the risks assessed. It also verifies that users have received training and that maintenance and replacement records are kept.
Users can check the validity of their certification themselves by consulting the official databases of the notified bodies. This confirms that the glove remains certified according to the applicable standard.
Why choose G-Heat for your protective equipment
When you trust G-Heat, you are choosing thermal expertise that makes a difference in your choice of protective equipment. Here are our five key commitments:
- In-depth technical expertise: our team has a thorough understanding of PPE standards and guides your choice based on your actual risks, not a generic catalog.
- Proven innovative technologies: since 2017, we have been developing thermal solutions that combine maximum protection and optimal comfort for all professional environments, such as our heated work gloves that comply with the EN 388 PPE standard
- Personalized support: we analyze your on-site constraints to recommend the equipment best suited to your activity and work environment.
- Certified and sustainable quality: we guarantee the highest quality equipment that maintains its performance over time, such as our heated gloves, heated jackets, and heated sweatshirts.
- Responsive after-sales service: our team is available to advise you on maintenance, replacement, and changes in your protection needs.
FAQ
How do I correctly read the ratings on the EN 388 pictogram?
The ratings are read from left to right in this order: abrasion (0-4), cut Couptest (0-5 or X), tear (0-4), puncture (0-4), cut ISO 13997 (A-F), impact (P). A rating of 4-X-3-2-C-P indicates excellent protection with cut rating according to ISO 13997 level C and impact protection.
What is the difference between the Couptest and the ISO 13997 method?
The Couptest uses a circular blade that gradually becomes blunt, distorting the results for high-performance materials. ISO 13997 uses a new straight blade for each test, eliminating this bias. When the Couptest cannot cut through the material, it displays “X” and refers to the more accurate ISO 13997.
Are my gloves certified to the old standard still compliant?
EN 388:2003 gloves remain usable until they are worn out but can no longer be sold since January 2023. When replacing them, choose models certified to EN 388:2016+A1:2018, which offer better evaluated and more reliable protection.
How do I choose between two gloves with different protection ratings?
Analyze your priority risks: prioritize abrasion for friction, cuts for sharp objects, and tears for stress. Balance protection and dexterity according to your tasks. When in doubt, always choose the higher level for a safety margin.
How long is EN 388 certification valid for?
Certification remains valid as long as the manufacturer keeps its production in line with the initial tests. Notified bodies carry out regular checks to verify this compliance. Check the validity on the official databases of the certifying bodies.
Are EN 388-certified gloves also suitable for thermal risks?
No, the EN 388 standard only covers mechanical risks. For thermal risks (heat/cold), check the EN 407 (heat) and EN 511 (cold) certifications. Some gloves have multiple certifications for versatile protection depending on your multiple exposures.
How should I care for my protective gloves to maintain their performance level?
Clean regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions, dry completely before storage, and inspect visually before each use. Replace immediately if there is visible wear, perforation, or loss of flexibility. Rigorous maintenance preserves certified performance and your safety.
