Gloves standard set to change

During the second half of 2016, a new version of EN388, the mechanical hazards standard  for protective gloves will be published.

One of the key changes to the standard is that it will now include back of the hand protection and it should make it easier to identify which gloves offer which level of protection. From 21 April 2018, new impact-resistant gloves will have to pass specific tests in order to comply with the standard.

In this video Roger Bisby and Skill Builder Editor, Georgina Bisby look at some gloves from Polyco which have been designed to meet the new standard: The new Multi-Task E (Hi-Viz), Grip It Oil C5 TP, or Multi-Task E C5.

These products all feature a layer of thermoplastic rubber (TPR) applied to the back of the gloves that has been engineered to guard against injuries caused by impact.

Impact tests measure the amount of force transmitted to the hand after a blow to the back of it. To be effective in preventing injury, impact protection must be able both to divert the force of the impact and slow it down. The flexible TPR applied to the back of the Multi-Task E (Hi-Viz), Grip It Oil C5 TP and Multi-Task E C5 is soft, which means it deflects the force of the blow away from the hand without compromising dexterity. The engineered rubber is strong and durable and will not break down over time, unlike foam or gel. It is also lightweight, which helps alleviate hand fatigue over long periods of wear.

All three new gloves feature a tensile nitrile palm coating, designed to enhance protection and freedom of movement. In the Multi-Task E (Hi-Viz) and Multi-Task E C5 this coating has been slightly roughened to improve handling performance, particularly in light oil conditions. The former also boasts a high visibility lining and TPR, padding on key areas of the palm and a reinforced thumb crotch for extra defence against injury.

The Grip It Oil C5 TP comprises two layers of nitrile coating – a full, water-resistant layer and a second layer on the palm incorporating microfoam bubbles, which maximises grip in wet and greasy conditions. The soft, seamless liner in all three gloves is made from knitted nylon and, in the case of the Grip It Oil C5 TP and Multi-Task E C5™, it is cut-resistant. Both the latter and the Multi-Task E (Hi-Viz) have an elasticated neoprene cuff with an adjustable VELCRO wrist strap, which adds to their wearability and durability.

The gloves are suitable for use in a wide range of general handling activities and work environments, including automotive maintenance and repair, construction, light engineering and machine operation.

For more information on the new version of the standard, a fact sheet can be found on the Polyco website: www.polyco.co.uk/media/1357/en388-fact-sheet_220416.pdf

About Roger Bisby

Roger Bisby is an English television presenter and journalist, known for his expertise in the British building industry.

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