EN 388 explained: glove cut, abrasion, tear and puncture ratings
EN 388 explained: glove cut, abrasion, tear and puncture ratings
EN 388 rates work gloves against mechanical risks. The hammer-and-shield pictogram is followed by up to six characters, one for each test.
Updated
Quick answer
EN 388 (2016+A1:2018) gloves show a code such as 4X43C P. In order: abrasion (1–4), coup cut (1–5), tear (1–4), puncture (1–4), ISO 13997 cut (A–F) and P if the glove passed the impact test. X means not tested. For cut protection, use the letter: A is the lowest and F the highest.
At a glance
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| What it covers | Gloves for cut, abrasion, tear and puncture risks |
| Current edition | EN 388:2016+A1:2018 |
| Status in GB | Designated in Great Britain (GOV.UK notice 0142/26, 15 October 2026) |
| Status in Ireland and NI | Harmonised in the EU, so it applies in Ireland and Northern Ireland (since 19 May 2020) |
| On the label | Hammer-and-shield pictogram with a code like 4X43C P |
Reading a code like 4X43C P
| Position | Test | Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Abrasion | 1 to 4 |
| 2nd | Coup cut | 1 to 5, or X |
| 3rd | Tear | 1 to 4 |
| 4th | Puncture | 1 to 4 |
| 5th | ISO 13997 cut (TDM) | A to F |
| 6th | Impact | P if passed |
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EN 388 questions
What cut level do I need for handling glass or sheet metal?
Many employers choose cut level C to F for sharp edges, but your risk assessment should decide. Use the letter, not the old coup number.
What does X mean in an EN 388 code?
The glove was not tested, or the test does not apply, for that property.
Need this for a team?
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Official sources
Standards and site rules change. Always check the current edition, the product's declaration of conformity and your own risk assessment.
- GOV.UK: Designated standards for PPE (Great Britain): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/designated-standards-ppe
- European Commission: Harmonised standards for PPE (EU, applies in Ireland and Northern Ireland): https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/personal-protective-equipment_en
- HSE: PPE at work regulations: https://www.hse.gov.uk/ppe/ppe-regulations-2022.htm
- HSA: Personal protective equipment (Ireland): https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/personal_protective_equipment_-_ppe/
- BSI: the UK National Standards Body (publishes BS EN standards): https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/about-bsi/uk-national-standards-body/
- NSAI: National Standards Authority of Ireland (publishes I.S. EN standards): https://www.nsai.ie/