Collection: EN 455 Gloves

EN 455 Gloves Explained

EN 455 is the European standard that defines the safety, quality, and performance requirements for single-use medical gloves. Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, surgeon, porter, or cleaner, any disposable gloves used in medical settings must meet this standard to ensure reliable protection.

To be certified for medical use, gloves must pass four key tests:

EN 455-1 – Freedom from Holes This part ensures that gloves are free from pinholes or leaks that could compromise protection. Each batch is tested using a water tightness method to check for microscopic defects, helping to prevent the transmission of bacteria, viruses and other contaminants.

EN 455-2 – Physical Properties Assesses the glove’s tensile strength and elasticity to make sure they can withstand the physical demands of medical or clinical tasks. This includes resistance to tearing when donning the gloves and durability during use, ensuring reliable protection throughout.

EN 455-3 – Biological Evaluation Evaluates the glove’s biocompatibility, including potential for skin irritation, sensitisation, or allergic reactions. It also assesses chemical residue levels (such as latex proteins or accelerators), ensuring the gloves are safe for prolonged skin contact.

EN 455-4 – Shelf Life Determination Confirms that the gloves remain safe and effective up to their stated expiry date. This includes long-term stability testing to assess material degradation over time, helping to maintain consistent quality in storage and supply.