Protective gloves are often industrially produced in large quantities, often in quantities of millions of pieces. The manufacturing processes for examination gloves are optimized to achieve consistent quality with a low error rate. Not every single glove is tested for quality, but a random inspection takes place. The sample is used to infer the quality of the total quantity. This statistical method for determining quality is called AQL. AQL stands for: Accepted Quality Level.
Random Sampling AQL
The sample is taken in a well-defined procedure and tested according to the established standards and specifications in order to be able to draw reliable conclusions about the entire batch of the manufactured product. The higher the requirements for a product, the stricter the specified guidelines are, of course. A comprehensive explanation of AQL from Semperit Technische Produkte Gesellschaft m.b.H., Vienna, can be requested from the protection professionals.
The assignment of AQL values
Here you can see the respective assignment of the AQL values to the performance levels at a glance:
|
Level |
1 |
2 |
3 |
|
AQL |
4,0 |
1,5 |
0,65 |
The lower the AQL value, the higher the quality level of the goods.
EN 455-1 standard for disposable medical gloves
As an AQL standard for medical gloves, the EN 455-1 standard specifies an AQL value of 1.5 as a minimum. This means that the probability of the smallest leaks is 1.5%. According to international standards, this value must not be exceeded. Many manufacturers fall far below this value. In order to be used as protection against microorganisms in accordance with EN374-2, a glove must also meet at least the requirements of Level 2 (AQL 1.5).