Significant progress has recently been made in the world of protective equipment. Allprotec®️ presents the latest development in the field of protective gloves: the introduction of the EN ISO 21420:2020 standard. This standard, which was published in March 2020, replaces the previously applicable EN 420 and brings significant improvements in occupational health and safety.
From EN 420 to EN ISO 21420: An important step in standardization
EN 420, which previously served as the basis for protective gloves, has been further developed by the new EN ISO 21420 to define internationally recognized requirements and test methods. This new standard sets globally valid standards that go beyond the previous requirements. However, it is important to emphasize that products that are already certified according to EN 420 may continue to be sold and used.
Important information for end users
Compliance with EN ISO 21420:2020 is now mandatory for all newly manufactured protective gloves. This ensures that the safety standards of the gloves are up to date and provides additional peace of mind for end users.
Responsibilities of the manufacturers
Manufacturers are now faced with the task of ensuring that their gloves meet the new requirements. The marking of the gloves must include the name of the manufacturer, the size, the product name, the CE mark and the corresponding standards. In addition, depending on the product, further tests in accordance with EN ISO 21420 may be required to ensure compliance.
Core requirements of the new standard
- Design: Focus on effectiveness and safety
The gloves must be designed in such a way that they do not interfere with the performance of the activity while providing adequate protection. In particular, the new guidelines for putting on and taking off the gloves have been improved: In the case of reusable multi-layer gloves, the layers must not separate from each other, and the design must minimize the time required to do so. - Chemical safety: A focus on health and safety
The new standard places great emphasis on the chemical harmlessness of the materials used. These must not release any substances that are considered toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic or allergenic. New are specific tests for substances such as chromium VI in leather and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In addition to the previous pH test for materials containing rubber and plastics, PAHs have been added to the list of substances to be tested. - Values and substances to be checked:
- pH value of all materials (between 3.5 and 9.5)
- Chromium VI in leather (less than 3 mg/kg)
- Azo dyes (less than 30 mg/kg for carcinogenic aromatic amines)
- DMFa (dimethylformamide) in gloves with polyurethane (less than 1000 mg/kg)
- Nickel in metal parts (less than 0.5 μg/cm²/week)
- PAHs in rubber or plastic materials (maximum 1 mg/kg in direct contact with the skin)
- Convenience and efficiency: adaptation to user needs
The new standard also takes into account the size and dexterity of the gloves. Sizes now range from 4 to 13, and dexterity is measured against specific criteria, including material thickness and elasticity. Dexterity is measured by the diameter of the smallest needle, which can be picked up three times from a flat surface within 30 seconds. - Electrostatic properties: safety in high-risk environments
Protective gloves used in areas with a risk of explosion are subject to additional requirements for electrostatic properties. These gloves must undergo special tests and appropriate labelling is required. EN ISO 21420 refers to EN 16530:2014 as well as EN 1149-1:2006 and EN 1149-3:2004 for specific tests and requirements.
Manufacturing information: More transparency for users
Manufacturers must now provide more comprehensive information about the production of their gloves, including batch number and date of manufacture. In addition, information about known allergens in the gloves should also be made available upon request.
Final thoughts: An important step towards greater safety
The introduction of EN ISO 21420:2020 represents a significant step forward in the standardization and safety of protective gloves. Allprotec®️ remains a leader in the development of safe, high-quality and innovative products that ensure the best possible protection for their users.