THE STANDARDS YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR!
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EN374-2 Resistance to penetration by microorganisms. Referred to as acceptable quality level (AQL) and is rated 1 to 3
EN374-2 Determination of Resistance to Water Penetration This is the reference test specified by the European Standard for the assessment of glove quality. Gloves must pass this test in order to prove that they are an effective barrier against liquids and micro-organisms.
A statistical sample taken from a batch of gloves is subject to checks for pinholes and leaks by either inflation with air or by filling with water. Performance levels are assessed according to the acceptable quality levels (AQL) of the gloves.
Gloves must meet at least level 2 of EN374-2 to be considered micro-organism resistant and carry the marks you see to the right:-
ARE ALL GLOVES ARE THE SAME?
It is now known that a significant number of people have developed an allergy to the protein which is present in natural latex rubber.
Current estimates of the numbers of people in the general population are less than 1%, but a higher prevalence of allergy exists in certain work groups such as laboratory and healthcare. It is now possible to avoid this risk by switching to a synthetic alternative without a significant increase in cost.
In a Laboratory setting, you should always choose a complex design glove where you need to safeguard your personal health and safety. Only complex design gloves are tested by a notified body and have the numbers corresponding to that body after the CE mark. They are specifically designed and manufactured for protection against hazards which present a risk of mortal danger or irreversible harm.
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A glove with just a basic CE mark (with no numbers) is usually self certified by the manufacturer and will NOT provide adequate protection.
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What does EN455 mean?
This is a general quality standard for gloves not tested by a notified body, i.e manufacturers own self certification. This type of glove is often referred to as a class I medical device. It is not suitable for use with chemicals and biological hazards Check that the manufacturer of your glove is accredited to ISO9000Check to ensure that there are numbers after the CE marking, for example CE 0123
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The manufacturers certificate of conformity must state EN374-2 if you are working with microorganisms.
| AQL | 4.0 |
1.5 |
0.65 |
| Performance | 1 |
2 |
3 |
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If you are in doubt about your current product ask for a certificate of conformity