Understanding EN388: How to Choose the Right Cut-Resistant Gloves

Cut-resistant gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) across many UK industries, including construction, warehousing, engineering, and manufacturing.

However, understanding glove ratings can often be confusing, and selecting the wrong level of protection can lead to safety risks or unnecessary costs.

This guide explains the EN388 standard, breaks down A–F cut resistance levels, and helps you choose the correct gloves for your specific workplace hazards.

What is EN388?

EN388 is the recognised UK and European standard used to assess the mechanical protection performance of safety gloves.

When viewing certified gloves, you will typically see a shield icon followed by a combination of numbers and letters. This marking represents the glove’s performance across a series of laboratory tests.

Mechanical risk tests include:

• Abrasion resistance – resistance to surface wear over time

• Blade cut resistance (Coupe test) – resistance against a rotating circular blade

• Tear resistance – force required to tear the material

• Puncture resistance – resistance to penetration by a pointed object

• ISO cut resistance (TDM-100 test) – modern measurement for sharp-edge protection (A–F scale)

• Impact protection – optional knuckle protection (marked with “P” if passed)

Compliance note:

Employers are legally required to provide suitable PPE based on risk assessment. Further guidance can be found via the Health and Safety Executive (HSE):https://www.hse.gov.uk/ppe/

Understanding EN388 Cut Resistance (A to F)

The most important part of the modern EN388:2016 standard is the ISO 13997 (TDM) cut test, which measures resistance using a controlled blade force. Results are graded from A to F.

Cut resistance levels explained:

Level	Protection	Suitable applications
A	Minimal	Light assembly, packaging, general handling
B	Low	Basic logistics and warehouse tasks
C	Moderate	General construction and maintenance work
D	High	Sharp materials, automotive work, metal handling
E	Very high	Engineering, fabrication, glass handling
F	Maximum	Heavy industrial cutting and extreme-risk environments

Higher ratings provide greater protection but may reduce flexibility depending on glove design.

Why Correct Glove Selection Matters

Cut-related injuries are among the most common workplace accidents in the UK, particularly in environments involving sharp tools, materials, or machinery.

Selecting the correct EN388 rating helps:

• Reduce workplace injuries and downtime

• Improve compliance with UK safety regulations

• Support insurance and risk management requirements

• Avoid overspending on unnecessary protection levels

Incorrect glove selection can either increase risk (under-specification) or reduce productivity (over-specification).

How to Choose the Right Cut-Resistant Gloves

When selecting gloves for your team, consider the following factors:

1. Nature of the hazard

Identify what workers are handling daily:

• Light materials (cardboard, packaging): A–B

• General construction tasks: C–D

• Sharp metal, glass, or industrial components: D–F

2. Balance protection and dexterity

Modern PPE technology allows high cut resistance without excessive bulk. Many advanced gloves now provide D–F protection while maintaining flexibility for precision tasks.

3. Environmental conditions

Consider the working environment:

• Oily or greasy conditions: nitrile-coated gloves for improved grip

• Dry handling tasks: polyurethane (PU) coatings for dexterity

• Outdoor or mixed environments: hybrid coated options for versatility

Certified PPE for Your Business

Using certified PPE ensures your workforce is protected and your business remains compliant with UK health and safety standards.

At Viceroy PPE, we supply a wide range of EN388-certified cut-resistant gloves suitable for:

• Construction and site work

• Warehousing and logistics

• Engineering and manufacturing

• Industrial fabrication

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Final Thoughts

Understanding EN388 glove ratings is essential for selecting the right level of protection in the workplace. By matching glove performance to specific hazards, businesses can reduce injury risk, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with UK regulations.

For tailored advice or bulk PPE supply, Viceroy PPE can help you choose the right solution for your operational needs.