If you buy safety gloves for metal fabrication, you’ve probably seen the EN 388 symbol. But the standard changed, and now there’s a new, more reliable way to measure cut resistance: Levels A to F. Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you can buy with confidence.
Why the Change? The Old Test Had a Flaw.
The old EN 388 test used a circular blade moving back and forth. For very sharp materials (like razor-sharp metal sheets or glass), this blade could dull too quickly, giving some super-strong gloves a deceptively low score. It wasn’t telling the whole story.
The new test (called the ISO 13997 test) fixes this. It uses a straight, sharp blade that moves across the glove material with a fixed force. The result is a score in Newtons (N). This “Coup Test” is much more consistent for modern, high-performance materials.
Decoding the New A-F Scale: From Light Duty to Heavy Duty.
Think of the new scale as a clear ladder of protection. The higher the letter, the greater the force needed to cut through the glove.
- Level A (2 N to 4.9 N): Light Duty. Protects against light scratches and abrasions from handling sheet metal with deburred edges. Not for sharp or serrated edges.
- Level B (5 N to 9.9 N): Light/Medium Duty. Good for general machine handling, stamped parts, or assemblies where sharp edges are minimal.
- Level C (10 N to 14.9 N): Medium Duty. The common starting point for many fabrication tasks. Suitable for handling pipes, CNC parts, and materials with a constant but moderate cutting risk.
- Level D (15 N to 21.9 N): Medium/Heavy Duty. Ideal for most serious metalwork. Use this for handling steel plates, structural steel, castings, and long-term exposure to sharp edges.
- Level E (22 N to 29.9 N): Heavy Duty. For high-risk tasks. Essential for handling very sharp materials like stainless steel sheets, glass, or rotary blades, and for long-duration cutting risk.
- Level F (30 N and above): Extreme Duty. Maximum protection. Used for the most hazardous activities, like slaughterhouse work, heavy sheet metal handling with razor-sharp edges, or emergency services.
How to Choose: Match the Glove to Your Real Risk.
Don’t just buy the highest level “to be safe.” Over-protection often means bulky, stiff, and expensive gloves that workers won’t wear. Under-protection is dangerous, but over-protection kills productivity.
- Assess Your Sharpest Hazard: What is the sharpest material or tool your workers touch regularly? A smooth aluminum extrusion is different from a freshly sheared steel edge.
- Consider Contact Time: Is it a quick grab or prolonged pressure against an edge? Longer contact time requires a higher level.
- Balance with Dexterity: Ask for samples! A Level D glove from one brand might be more flexible than another. Let your workers test them with actual tools.
Your 4-Question Checklist for Suppliers:
Stop the jargon. Ask your glove supplier these direct questions:
- “For this glove model, can you show me the official ISO 13997 test result in Newtons (not just the letter)?”
- “Based on our work with [describe your specific material, e.g., stamped automotive parts], which cut level (C, D, E) do you recommend for the best balance of safety and dexterity?”
- “Does this glove also have good abrasion and tear resistance (the first numbers in the EN 388 rating)? A glove can be cut-resistant but wear out quickly.”
- “Do you offer different sizes and a trial program? A proper fit is critical for safety.”
Conclusion: Knowledge is Your Best PPE.
Understanding the A-F scale puts you in control. It allows you to make smarter, cost-effective purchases that truly protect your team without slowing them down. Your goal isn’t just to buy gloves—it’s to buy the right solution for the risk.
