EN511 Standard Cold resistance

Prerequisites for this standard:

In order to be tested for EN511, a glove must have previously validated a minimum level of 1 in the abrasion resistance and tear resistance tests for EN388.

Understanding the EN511 standard - Cold protection

The EN511 standard defines the minimum requirements for protective gloves against cold. Gloves certified according to this standard must provide protection against both convective (penetrating) and contact (direct) cold. Their performances are defined according to 3 levels:

1^st digit: Resistance to convective cold

The first digit under the pictogram refers to the level of resistance to convective cold. A glove’s thermal insulation is assessed by measuring the power required to maintain a constant temperature between the surface of a preheated hand model and the cold ambient atmosphere. The goal is to maintain an average temperature between 30 and 35°C in each area of the hand. The lower the energy required, the higher the performance level (rated from 1 to 4).

2^nd digit: Resistance to contact cold

The second digit below the pictogram refers to the level of resistance to contact cold. A glove’s thermal resistance is assessed by using its material as insulation between a cold plate and a hot plate. The variance in the hot plate’s temperature drop is then measured. Test standard 5085-1 outlines a formula for calculating thermal resistance, with performance levels rated from 1 to 4.

3^rd digit: Waterproofness

The third digit below the pictogram refers to waterproof performance. The test is successful if water has not penetrated the glove after 30 minutes. 0 means that the glove has not passed the test, and 1 means it is indeed waterproof.