What is EN 511:2006?

EN 511:2006 is a professional technical standard that defines performance requirements for gloves which protect against cold conditions. This European Standard provides users with valuable information regarding the capabilities of cold protective gloves and helps them find suitable gloves for their specific needs.

Why is EN 511 important?

Cold environments pose various risks to workers, such as frostbite and decreased dexterity. EN 511 ensures that the gloves meet specific performance criteria, giving wearers confidence in their protective equipment. By complying with this standard, manufacturers demonstrate their commitment to producing high-quality work gloves that provide effective protection against the cold.

Key requirements of EN 511

EN 511 evaluates gloves based on three essential properties: resistance to convective cold, resistance to contact cold, and resistance to water penetration. Each of these properties corresponds to a numerical rating, with higher numbers indicating better performance. The convective cold resistance rating measures the glove's ability to reduce heat loss caused by wind or moving air, while the contact cold resistance rating determines the glove's resistance to conductive cold. Additionally, the water penetration resistance rating indicates the glove's ability to repel water during use.

Ensuring compliance with EN 511

To ensure compliance with EN 511, manufacturers must subject their gloves to rigorous testing procedures. Independent accredited laboratories conduct thorough assessments to determine if the gloves meet the required standards. Compliance is indicated by stating the test results and EN 511 pictograms on glove packaging. It is essential for users to verify that the gloves they purchase carry the appropriate EN 511 labeling to ensure proper protection against cold conditions.