Protective gloves are essential across various industries, from healthcare and food handling to construction and manufacturing. However, not all gloves offer the same level of protection. This is why glove standards, glove certification and glove regulations exist. They ensure gloves meet strict safety and performance criteria.
What Are Glove Standards?
Glove standards ensure that protective gloves meet safety and performance requirements for specific applications. These standards cover factors such as resistance to cuts, chemicals, heat and biological hazards.
In the UK, businesses must comply with BS EN Standards and the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to serious workplace risks, legal penalties and increased liability.
Key UK Glove Standards
Several internationally recognised glove standards apply in the UK:
EN 374 – Protection Against Chemicals and Microorganisms
- Used in laboratories, pharmaceuticals and healthcare
- Ensures gloves resist hazardous chemicals and biological agents
EN 388 – Mechanical Risk Protection
- Used in construction, manufacturing and automotive industries
- Assesses gloves for abrasion, cut, tear and puncture resistance
EN 455 – Medical Gloves for Single Use
- Required for gloves used in hospitals, dental clinics and healthcare
- Ensure gloves meet hygiene and durability requirements
EN 407 – Heat and Fire Resistance
- Used in welding, glass manufacturing and industrial kitchens
- Tests gloves for resistance to burns and high temperatures
EN 511 – Cold Protection
- Ensures gloves provide insulation against extreme cold
- Used in cold storage, outdoor work and food processing
Businesses operating in the UK must ensure their compliance meets these glove standards to remain compliant with industry regulations.
What is Glove Certification?
Glove certification verifies that gloves meet safety and performance criteria. Certified gloves are tested to ensure they protect against workplace hazards.
In the UK, gloves must now carry the UKCA marking to be legally sold. Certification bodies such as BSI (British Standards Institution) assess gloves for compliance.
How Are Gloves Certified?
Manufacturers must submit their gloves for independent testing before receiving UKCA certification. Testing evaluates:
- Resistance to cuts, pictures and chemicals
- Heat and cold insulation properties
- Dexterity and comfort
- Barrier effectiveness against bacteria and viruses
Only gloves that pass these tests receive glove certification, making them suitable for workplace use.
Certified vs. Non-Certified Gloves
| Feature | Certified Gloves | Non-Certified Gloves |
| Tested for safety? | Yes | No |
| Compliant with UK regulations? | Yes | No |
| Approved for industry use? | Yes | No |
| Legal risk? | No | Yes |
Using certified gloves ensures compliance and protects businesses from liability.
Why Are Glove Regulations Important?
Gloves regulations are legal requirements ensuring gloves are safe and effective. In the UK, failure to comply can lead to fines, workplace injuries and liability claims.
Employers must conduct risk assessments to determine which gloves are necessary, following UK PPE regulations.
Key UK Glove Regulations
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulations 2018
- Employers must provide PPE gloves suitable for workplace risks
- Gloves must meet UKCA or CE certification
Medical Device Regulations 2002
- Medical gloves must comply with EN 455 standards
- Ensure gloves are sterile, biocompatible and durable
Food Contact Materials Regulations
- Gloves used in food processing must comply with EU Regulations 10/2011
- Prevents contamination and ensures hygiene
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Requires employers to provide protective gloves to reduce workplace injuries
- Non-compliance can result in legal action and fines
What Industries Require Certified Gloves?
Many industries rely on certified gloves to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Healthcare and Medical
- Must use UKCA-certified gloves for patient care
- EN 455 certification ensures hygiene and protection
Food Processing and Handling
- Gloves must comply with UK Food Contact Materials Regulations
- Prevents food contamination and meets hygiene requirements
Construction and Manufacturing
- EN 388 gloves are required for handling sharp materials
- Protect against cuts, punctures and abrasions
Laboratory and Chemical Handling
- EN 374 gloves are mandatory for handling hazardous substances
- Ensures protection against chemicals and microorganisms.
Using certified gloves helps businesses avoid penalties and ensures worker safety.
Choosing the Right Gloves for Safety and Compliance
Ensuring gloves meet UK glove standards, glove certification and glove regulations is vital for workplace safety. Businesses must:
- Choose gloves that meet UKCA and EN standards
- Use certified gloves to comply with UK regulations
- Conduct risk assessments to choose the correct gloves
For a wide range of gloves, visit Easy Gloves. We provide industry-approved gloves designed for safety and compliance.
