Work gloves are one of the most widely used personal protective equipment (PPE) in many
work contexts. Just like a helmet protects the head or the safety shoes the feet, the
gloves play a vital role in the protection of hands, exposed to risks of different
nature. This is why it is essential that gloves comply with certain regulations to ensure the
maximum security.
In this article, we will focus on EN1082-1, EN421 and EN12477, and how
each of them regulates the protection of hands in specific working situations.
EN1082-1: Protection against cutting by hand knives
The EN1082-1 standard covers gloves and arm protectors made of metal mesh designed for
protect against lacerations caused by hand knives. These gloves are characterized by
specific design requirements, penetration resistance, ergonomic characteristics,
straps, weight, material, marking and instructions for use.
They are commonly used in food industries where cutting risks are high.
EN421: Protection against radioactive contamination
EN421 compliant gloves are designed to protect hands from
radioactive contamination. To comply with this standard, a glove must be
waterproof, so as to prevent the penetration of liquids and particles. In addition, it must exceed the
penetration test according to EN374.
These gloves are indispensable in environments such as nuclear power plants, research laboratories and in
any context in which there is a risk of exposure to radioactive material.
EN12477: Protective gloves for welders
EN12477 lays down the requirements and test methods for protective gloves used in
manual welding, in cutting and related processes. These gloves are classified into two types in
on the basis of their performance:
- type A, less dexterity but more protection
- type B, with greater dexterity and less protection
They are essential for welders and those working with molten metals, offering protection against
sparks, heat and cuts.
Choosing the appropriate gloves is crucial to ensuring safety at work. Understanding
standards helps to select the most suitable glove for the specific needs of
each profession.
If you need assistance in selecting the perfect work gloves for you or want
more information on regulations, contact us here. We are at your disposal.