What is EN 511: 2006? .

Introduction

EN 511:2006 is a standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) that specifically addresses the requirements for protective gloves against cold. This standard sets out specific performance criteria that gloves need to meet to ensure adequate protection and comfort for individuals working in cold environments.

The Three Parameters of EN 511:2006

EN 511:2006 specifies three key parameters that must be evaluated and indicated on the glove's label: Resistance to Convective Cold, Resistance to Contact Cold, and Water Permeability. These parameters provide users with valuable information about the level of protection provided by the gloves against cold hazards.

Resistance to Convective Cold (Performance Level)

The first parameter, Resistance to Convective Cold, measures the insulation or thermal resistance provided by the glove against cold air circulating around it. It is expressed using a performance level ranging from 1 to 4, with 4 being the highest level of protection. The higher the level, the better the insulation provided by the glove.

Resistance to Contact Cold (Performance Level)

The second parameter, Resistance to Contact Cold, determines the glove's ability to protect against direct contact with cold surfaces. Performance levels for this parameter range from 1 to 4, similar to Resistance to Convective Cold. A higher performance level indicates better protection against contact with cold objects.

Water Permeability (Performance Level)

The final parameter, Water Permeability, evaluates the glove's ability to resist water penetration. Gloves are assigned a performance level between 0 and 1, with 1 being the best water resistance. This parameter is particularly important for individuals working in wet or snowy conditions, as it ensures hands remain dry and warm.

Conclusion

EN 511:2006 is an essential standard that provides guidelines for selecting gloves that offer adequate protection against cold environments. By understanding the three parameters—Resistance to Convective Cold, Resistance to Contact Cold, and Water Permeability—you can make informed decisions when choosing the right gloves that suit your specific needs.