The EN388 standard applies to all types of protective gloves with respect to physical and mechanical aggression from abrasion, cutting from slicing, perforation and tearing. Since the 2016 version of the standard, new optional performances have appeared.
![](https://www.deltaplus.eu/documents/6040686/34433418/EN388+Descriptif+%2B+Tableau.png/f2b73a9b-a6cf-44cc-9661-ac1eb820ff7a?t=1559119929630)
Impact resistance on the metacarpal area: if this performance is claimed, the "P" mark appears.
Cut by blade, 2 test methods: EN388 6.2.: For low to middle risks of cutting. A circular blade on which a constant force of 5 N is applied, moves back and forth until the sample is cut. It measures the number of completed cycles and is credited with the corresponding level.
EN ISO 13997: For materials that blunt the blade during the EN388 6.2 test and/ or are particularly resistant, for high risk of cutting. A straight blade makes a single movement of 20 mm with a force of 2N, the test is repeated with a different force as many times as necessary until the sample is cut. A level corresponding to the force required to cut the sample is assigned. This method better represents the usage situations that present a high risk of cutting.
![](https://www.deltaplus.eu/documents/6040686/34433418/EN388+illustration+m%C3%A9thode+test.png/3cb71765-f039-49d1-aa95-aa68295099a7?t=1559119929780)