EN 388 - is the classification for gloves designed to protect the hands against mechanical risks EN 407 - Protective gloves against thermal hazards (heat and/or fire) EN 511 - Protective gloves against cold EN 374 - Protective gloves against chemicals and micro-organisms EN 12477 - is the standard for protective gauntlets for welders EN 421 Protective gloves against ionizing radiation and radioactive contamination EN 659 Protective gloves for firefighters

You need the right gloves for the hazard!

• Mechanical Hazard - associated with the handling of rough or sharp objects which could abrade, cut or. A mechanical hazard is not associated with moving machinery, in fact, it can be extremely dangerous to wear gloves which could catch in moving parts or serrated blades.

    

• Chemical Hazard (inc Category III - Mortal Risks) - Whether total immersion, or merely splash, is involved, any substance which would irritate, inflame or burn the skin is classed as a Chemical Hazard. Some substances can cause the skin to become sensitised over a period of time while others have an immediate and painful effect. Gloves approved to  EN 374 offer protection against chemical splash, immersion and protection against micro organism hazards and are often covered specifically by The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended).

   

• Thermal Hazards - Hot and Cold -. Heat can be radiated or conducted, it may be actual flames. Cold can be anything from cold water to frozen gases. It is important to know the type of hazard, and the temperature involved in order to find suitable protection.

   

• Static Electricity -  Gloves containing a conductive element safely discharge electrostatic build up, effective in highly flammable atmospheres and in many 'clean' situations, are approved to  EN 388.

  

• Fighting Fires - Firefighters need hand protection which not only protects from heat, but which forms a barrier against liquids and mechanical hazards Firefighting gloves, approved to EN 659 offer protection against mechanical and thermal hazards..

    

• Radiation -Wherever Radiation is present, workers need very specialist protection. To protect against ionising radiation, gloves must contain a certain amount of lead, and this amount has to be marked on the glove. The standard EN 421 specifies how the lead content is calculated

• Specialist categories – these include such items as anti vibration gloves tested to EN 10819 Mechanical vibration and shock. Hand-arm vibration , high grip gloves and chainmail gloves for boning carcasses 

     

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Author – Richard Hill