Safety Gloves Selection Guide (EN 388 Mechanical Risks)

Hand injuries constitute a large percentage of preventable accidents in warehouses, chemical plants, and construction yards. Selecting the appropriate gloves requires reading standard specifications.

1. Deciphering the EN 388 Shield

Every certified safety glove features the EN 388 shield icon with 4 numbers and 1 or 2 letters underneath. These correspond to:

• First digit (0-4): Abrasion resistance.
• Second digit (0-5): Coupe test cut resistance.
• Third digit (0-4): Tear resistance.
• Fourth digit (0-4): Puncture resistance.
• Fifth letter (A-F): ISO 13997 straight blade cut test (essential for high-risk sharp environments).

2. Materials and Coatings

Nitirle-dipped gloves offer superior oil grip and resistance, making them ideal for mechanics. PU-coated gloves provide excellent dexterity for precision work, and leather rigger gloves are standard for heavy cargo and pipe handling.