HomeWork Gloves

Work Gloves

Work Gloves — common questions

Straight answers about what we stock, how it is sold and which standard applies.

How do I read the numbers on a glove?

EN 388 prints its results in a fixed order: abrasion 0 to 4, blade cut 0 to 5, tear 0 to 4, puncture 0 to 4. After those comes a letter from A to F for cut resistance measured by the TDM test, where F is highest. A final P means the glove has been tested for impact protection; no P means no impact claim is made.

There are two cut ratings. Which one matters?

The letter. EN 388 carries two cut results because the original coupe test uses a circular blade that blunts against modern cut resistant yarns, which understates them. The straight blade TDM test to ISO 13997 was added for that reason, and its A to F letter is the figure to compare across gloves. Use the 0 to 5 number for a rough sort and the letter for the decision.

Which coating for which job?

PU is thin and keeps fingertip feel, so it suits handling and assembly. Nitrile resists oils and wears well in general handling. Latex grips well when wet but is a problem where anyone has a latex allergy. PVC and riggers are the heavy end for rough material. Chemical resistant gloves are rated separately from EN 388 and should be chosen against the specific substance, not by feel.