What is EN 511:3020?

EN511:3020 is a professional technical standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This standard provides specifications and guidelines for protective gloves against cold. By testing various parameters, it aims to ensure that gloves offer adequate protection and insulation in extremely cold environments.

The Importance of EN511:3020

Working in cold conditions can pose a significant risk to individuals, causing discomfort, reduced dexterity, and potentially serious health issues such as frostbite. EN511:3020 sets minimum performance requirements for gloves, enabling users to make informed decisions when choosing suitable protection. Compliance with this standard ensures that gloves are capable of providing the necessary thermal resistance and protection against convection and contact cold.

Key Parameters of EN511:3020

EN511:3020 evaluates gloves based on three key parameters: resistance to convective cold, resistance to contact cold, and water permeability. Resistance to convective cold measures the ability of a glove material to resist heat transfer through air circulation. Resistance to contact cold refers to the glove's ability to prevent heat loss through physical contact with a cold surface. Water permeability assesses how effectively gloves protect against water penetration, which can further intensify cold hazards.

How to Choose Gloves According to EN511:3020

When selecting gloves according to EN511:3020, it is crucial to consider the specific working conditions and expected temperature ranges. Each parameter is represented by a performance level ranging from 0 to 4, with higher numbers indicating greater protection. For example, a glove labeled "221" would provide excellent resistance to contact cold (level 2), moderate resistance to convective cold (level 2), and minimal water permeability (level 1).