Work gloves protect hands in many sectors: industry, logistics, chemicals and construction. They cover a range of families (cut-resistant, coated, thermal or chemical) designed to combine safety, comfort and dexterity. In France, hands account for 25 to 30% of workplace accidents according to the INRS, hence the importance of a documented, suitable selection.
What standards apply to work gloves?
Compliance relies on the PPE Directive 2016/425/EU and the French Labour Code (art. R4321-4): the employer must provide PPE suited to the hazards involved. These references make audits and traceability easier, with support from bodies such as the INRS, OPPBTP or EUROGIP.
- EN ISO 21420: general requirements (design, ergonomics, marking).
- EN 388: mechanical hazards (abrasion, cutting, tearing, puncture, impact, ISO 13997 TDM test).
- EN 407: resistance to thermal hazards.
- EN 511: protection against cold.
- EN ISO 374: chemical and biological hazards.
- EN 12477: welding gloves (Type A and B).
- EN 60903: electrician's gloves for live working.
The ratings (for example under EN 388) make it possible to objectively compare models and match protection to the workstation without unnecessary over-protection.
What types of work gloves are there, and for which sectors?
The range covers most trade needs, from transport to chemicals and welding.
- handling gloves: logistics, industry, transport.
- cut-resistant gloves: metalworking, mechanics, food processing.
- chemical protective gloves: chemicals, cleaning, agriculture.
- Thermal gloves: welding, foundry, extreme cold.
- Electrician's gloves: energy, electrical maintenance.
- Special gloves: for particular uses, see our selection.
Depending on the requirements of your specification, you can also filter the selection by brand, for example with Ergos work gloves or Ansell work gloves.
The choice is made workstation by workstation: a more technical glove is justified if it genuinely reduces hazards or the total cost of use.
How should work gloves be maintained?
Maintenance extends safety and lifespan.
- Clean according to the manufacturer's recommendations (hand or machine wash up to 40°C, air dry).
- Store away from heat, light and chemicals.
- Check for holes, tears or hardening before use.
- Replace any damaged glove or after exposure to a hazardous substance.
In chemical settings, replace the glove after exposure if the manufacturer indicates rapid permeation; in handling roles, plan regular checks according to intensity of use.
What specific points should be considered for work gloves?
Choose a model compatible with other PPE, suited to the dexterity required and the constraints involved (heat, cold, chemicals, cuts, electrical hazards). The materials (textile, coating, technical fibres) determine resistance and comfort.
Some gloves are certified OEKO-TEX or Global Recycled Standard to support a responsible approach. Pictograms, size and fit make it easier to identify the level of protection and ensure correct use suited to the workstation.
For mechanical hazards, reading EN 388 levels (abrasion, tearing, puncture, TDM cut resistance) guides the choice: prioritise abrasion resistance for repetitive handling, cut resistance for sheet-metal work. For chemical hazards, match the EN ISO 374 standard to the product families handled and the expected contact times.
For multi-site needs, standardise references and maintain traceability to make audits and stock management easier.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about work gloves
How do I choose work gloves suited to my hazards and trade?
Identify the main hazard (mechanical, chemical, thermal, electrical) and the duration of exposure, then check the corresponding standard (EN 388, EN ISO 374, EN 407, EN 60903). Choose a performance level consistent with the task without compromising grip, and base your choice on a documented risk assessment.
What standards and markings should be checked on work gloves in France?
Check EN ISO 21420, then the standard linked to the hazard (EN 388, EN ISO 374, EN 407, EN 511, EN 60903). Check the pictograms, performance ratings, marking and manufacturer information; the PPE Directive 2016/425/EU and the Labour Code govern how they are provided.
How do I choose the right size and fit for work gloves?
Choose a size that avoids compression and looseness at the fingertips. Test real trade movements (gripping a tool, screwing) to confirm the reference before standardising.
What are the different types of work glove and what are they used for?
These include handling, cut-resistant, chemical, thermal and electrician's gloves. Each family is chosen according to the applicable standard and the required performance levels; the same site may need several types of glove depending on the workstation.
Which work gloves offer the best dexterity for fine, technical tasks?
Dexterity depends on thickness, the flexibility of the base material and the type of coating. For fine tasks, favour a soft knit base and a thin coating that maintain good tactile sensitivity while meeting the required level of protection.
Which specifics should be prioritised: dexterity and comfort?
Favour a close fit, a breathable material for hot workstations and a coating offering the desired grip. Check compatibility with other PPE; a glove tolerated over long days is worn more consistently and is therefore more effective.
Which specifics should be prioritised: robustness and lifespan of work gloves?
Monitor abrasion and tear resistance (EN 388) for repetitive handling and regularly check wear areas (palm, between fingers). In chemical settings, replace after exposure if permeation is rapid or if the material has hardened; plan replacements according to actual use.