Safety Gloves

Work gloves are a standard item of personal protective equipment (PPE) in many organizations. A risk analysis is used to determine the risks against which they must provide protection. These risks are documented in the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E).

Work gloves protect the hands, reduce the risk of injury, and provide a better grip while working. To ensure that this protection is truly effective, it is important to choose the right glove and use it correctly.

Work Gloves within the RI&E

The selection of work gloves is always based on the RI&E. For each task, the risks involved and the necessary measures are assessed. Work gloves are used only when source-based and collective measures do not provide sufficient protection. Work gloves are therefore not a standalone solution, but part of a broader safety policy.

General Requirements for Work Gloves

All work gloves bearing a CE mark must comply with EN ISO 21420:2020. This standard outlines the general safety requirements and places significant emphasis on comfort and ergonomics.

A good fit is essential. In addition, factors such as breathability, flexibility, grip, and tactile sensitivity play a major role. Gloves that are uncomfortable are worn less often and therefore offer less protection in practice.

Additional standards depending on the risk

Not every work glove is suitable for every work situation. Depending on the risks, additional standards may be required, for example in the case of:

• Mechanical hazards
• Chemical substances
• Thermal or cold conditions
• Biological or electrical risks

In practice, these risks often occur in combination, which means that multiple standards may apply at the same time.

Certification of work gloves

Work gloves must be CE-certified and comply with the European PPE Regulation 2016/425. This regulation defines three categories, ranging from minimal to very serious risks.

For work gloves in the highest category, both an independent inspection and ongoing production monitoring are mandatory. These gloves can be identified by a four-digit identification code issued by the certification body.

Usage Information and Material Safety

Every work glove must be supplied with clear instructions for use in the language of the country where the product is used. These instructions specify what the glove is suitable for and how it should be used safely.

The following applies to test results:

• 0: performance below the minimum protection level
• X: test not performed or not applicable

Materials that may cause allergic reactions, such as latex or chromium, must always be explicitly listed.

Information on the work glove

Work gloves typically display important product information, such as the manufacturer, CE marking, and size. Additional information may include:

• The expiration date
• The maximum number of washes
• The tensile strength of the material

The specified protection level usually refers to the palm material and does not automatically apply to the entire glove.

Hygiene, Storage, and Replacement

Work gloves can irritate the skin due to friction and perspiration. Wash your hands regularly and use an unscented moisturizing cream.

Store work gloves in a dry, cool, and dark place, preferably in their original packaging. Avoid heat, sunlight, and chemical vapors.

Damaged or soiled work gloves must not be reused. Even if they look clean, harmful substances may have penetrated the material. Therefore, replace them in a timely manner.

Protection Against Mechanical Hazards

Work gloves designed to protect against mechanical risks are covered by EN 388. This standard specifies how well a glove protects against abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures.

The protection levels are listed under the EN 388 icon. The higher the value, the better the protection. Note: These values usually apply only to the palm.

Protection against chemicals and microorganisms

Work gloves designed to protect against chemicals are covered by EN ISO 374. This standard assesses whether substances can penetrate the material and how quickly this occurs.

For protection against bacteria, fungi, and potentially viruses, EN ISO 374-5 applies in addition. Protection against viruses is explicitly indicated.

Other Standards

Separate standards apply to specific applications, such as heat, cold, firefighting, or medical gloves. Each standard is tailored to a specific risk and use.

Information and advice

Making the right choice and using work gloves correctly requires clear information. Employees must know what risks are present and what protection is appropriate for each risk.

If in doubt, it is wise to seek advice from the supplier or an expert, such as a safety officer.