EN 388 vs EN 407: What Is the Difference for Welding Gloves?
EN 388 and EN 407 evaluate different areas of protective-glove performance. EN 388 measures mechanical risks, including abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, and optional impact, while EN 407 measures thermal risks such as flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten metal. EN 12477 provides welding-specific requirements for protective gloves.
- EN 388: Mechanical protection against abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, and optional impact.
- EN 407: Thermal protection against flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure.
- EN 12477: Welding-specific requirements that combine relevant protection, glove construction, and dexterity criteria.
EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477 are complementary, not interchangeable. Welders and industrial buyers should read the complete performance codes and verify that the selected glove matches the mechanical, thermal, and dexterity requirements of the welding task.
EN 388 vs EN 407
EN 388 and EN 407 measure different protective-glove hazards. EN 388 evaluates mechanical resistance to abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, and optional impact, while EN 407 evaluates thermal protection against flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten metal. Welding gloves may require results from both standards, depending on the workplace risks.
| Standard | Primary Purpose | Hazards Tested | Rating Format | Welding Relevance | What It Does Not Measure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN 388 | Evaluates protective gloves against mechanical risks | Abrasion, blade cut, tear, puncture, ISO 13997 cut resistance, and optional impact | Up to six characters using numbers, letters, and optional impact marking | Helps assess protection when handling sharp plate, rough metal, tools, fabricated parts, and abrasive surfaces | Flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure |
| EN 407 | Evaluates protective gloves and hand protection against thermal risks | Limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, small molten-metal splashes, and large quantities of molten metal | Six performance positions, generally rated from 0 to 4 or marked X when a test is not performed or applicable | Helps assess thermal protection against welding heat, sparks, hot workpieces, radiant energy, and molten-metal hazards | Abrasion, cut, tear, puncture, impact, and complete welding suitability by itself |
EN 388 and EN 407 answer different safety questions. EN 388 indicates how a glove performs against mechanical hazards, while EN 407 indicates how it performs against defined thermal hazards. A welding glove may display both ratings because welding work can expose the hands to heat, spatter, sharp edges, abrasion, and puncture risks during the same task.
For a complete explanation of the individual tests and performance markings, read our EN 388 mechanical protection guide and EN 407 thermal protection guide.
What Is EN 388?
EN 388 is the European standard used to evaluate protective gloves against mechanical risks. It assesses abrasion, blade-cut, tear, puncture and, where applicable, impact performance. The marking may also include ISO 13997 cut resistance, helping welders and industrial buyers compare model-specific protection against sharp, rough and abrasive materials.
For the official scope, publication details, and standard overview, see the BSI overview of EN 388 protective gloves against mechanical risks.
What Hazards Does EN 388 Measure?
EN 388 evaluates six mechanical-protection areas:
- Abrasion resistance: How well the glove material withstands repeated rubbing and surface wear.
- Coup blade-cut resistance: Resistance to cutting by a rotating circular blade.
- Tear resistance: The force required to continue tearing the glove material.
- Puncture resistance: Resistance to penetration by a standardized pointed probe.
- ISO 13997 cut resistance: The force required for a straight blade to cut through the material.
- Optional impact protection: Protection against impact in the specifically tested area of the glove.
Each result applies to a separate mechanical hazard. A strong abrasion rating does not automatically indicate strong cut, puncture or impact protection.
EN 388 Performance Code Explained
An EN 388 marking can contain four numerical positions, one letter and an optional impact marking. Each position represents a different test and must be interpreted separately.
| Code Position | Test | Rating Scale | Practical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Position | Abrasion resistance | Levels 1–4 | Higher levels indicate greater resistance to repeated surface wear before the material is penetrated. |
| 2nd Position | Coup blade-cut resistance | Levels 1–5 or X | Indicates resistance to cutting by a rotating circular blade. An X may appear when no valid or applicable result is declared. |
| 3rd Position | Tear resistance | Levels 1–4 | Higher levels indicate that more force is required to continue tearing the glove material. |
| 4th Position | Puncture resistance | Levels 1–4 | Indicates resistance to penetration by a standardized pointed probe; it does not represent protection against every needle-like object. |
| 5th Position | ISO 13997 cut resistance | Levels A–F or X | Indicates the force required for a straight blade to cut through the material. Level F represents the highest classification in this scale. |
| 6th Position | Optional impact protection | P when passed | P indicates that the glove passed the optional impact test in the specifically tested protection area. |
An EN 388 performance code must be read position by position. A higher number or letter applies only to its individual test and does not prove that the glove provides higher protection against every mechanical hazard. X indicates that no performance level is declared for that position, while P identifies a passed optional impact test.
What Does “X” Mean in an EN 388 Rating?
X means that no performance level is declared for that test position. This may occur because the test was not performed, was not applicable or did not produce a suitable result for classification.
In the Coup blade-cut position, X commonly appears when blade dulling makes the circular-blade result unsuitable. In that situation, the ISO 13997 cut-resistance letter from A to F provides the more relevant cut classification.
What Does “P” Mean in EN 388?
P means that the glove passed the optional EN 388 impact-protection test in the tested area. Because impact testing is optional, the absence of P does not automatically mean that the glove failed; it may mean that no impact-protection claim was tested or declared.
Buyers should confirm which part of the glove was tested and review the model-specific technical documentation before relying on an impact claim.
What EN 388 Does Not Measure
EN 388 does not evaluate:
- Contact heat resistance
- Radiant heat resistance
- Flame or limited-flame-spread performance
- Small or large molten-metal exposure
- Complete welding-glove suitability by itself
These thermal hazards are evaluated under other standards, particularly EN 407, while EN 12477 addresses welding-specific glove requirements.
Specialist tip:
A high EN 388 cut or abrasion rating does not prove heat resistance. Mechanical and thermal performance must be assessed separately and matched to the hazards of the welding task.
For a more detailed explanation of the tests, markings and mechanical protection levels, read our EN 388 mechanical protection standard guide.
What Is EN 407?
EN 407 is the European standard that specifies requirements, test methods, markings, and information for protective gloves against thermal risks. It evaluates flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure. Welding gloves are assessed under EN 12477, which uses relevant thermal requirements rather than EN 407 alone.
For the official scope, publication details, and standard overview, see the BSI overview of EN 407 protection against thermal risks.
What Thermal Hazards Does EN 407 Measure?
The EN 407 performance code evaluates six separate thermal hazards:
- Limited flame spread: How long the glove continues to flame or glow after controlled flame exposure.
- Contact heat: How effectively the glove delays heat transfer from direct contact with a hot surface.
- Convective heat: Protection against heat transferred through moving hot gases or air.
- Radiant heat: Protection against infrared heat energy reaching the glove without direct contact.
- Small molten-metal splashes: Resistance to repeated small droplets of molten metal.
- Large quantities of molten metal: Resistance to a larger mass of molten metal poured onto the tested material assembly.
Each result applies only to its individual thermal test. A high contact heat level does not automatically prove equivalent performance against flame, radiant heat, or molten metal.
EN 407 Performance Code Explained
An EN 407 marking contains six positions, read from left to right. Each position relates to a different thermal test and is generally classified from Level 1 to Level 4, with Level 4 representing the highest classification for that test. An X means that no performance level is claimed for the relevant position.
| Code Position | Thermal Test | Performance Scale | Practical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Position | Limited flame spread | Levels 1–4 or X | Measures after-flame and after-glow behaviour following controlled flame exposure. Higher levels require shorter burning and glowing times. |
| 2nd Position | Contact heat | Levels 1–4 or X | Represents testing at 100°C, 250°C, 350°C, or 500°C, with a required threshold time of at least 15 seconds. |
| 3rd Position | Convective heat | Levels 1–4 or X | Measures how long the glove assembly delays heat transferred through moving hot gases or flame-generated convection. |
| 4th Position | Radiant heat | Levels 1–4 or X | Measures the time taken for a defined amount of radiant heat to pass through the tested material assembly. |
| 5th Position | Small molten-metal splashes | Levels 1–4 or X | Measures the number of molten-metal droplets required to produce a defined temperature rise behind the material. |
| 6th Position | Large quantities of molten metal | Levels 1–4 or X | Measures resistance to increasing quantities of molten iron and evaluates damage behind the tested material assembly. |
The six EN 407 positions must be interpreted separately. Each number describes performance against one thermal hazard, while X means that no performance level is claimed for that position. A high rating in one test does not establish the glove’s performance against the other thermal hazards or prove complete welding suitability.
What Does EN 407 Contact Heat Level 4 Mean?
Does EN 407 Level 4 Mean Unlimited Handling at 500°C?
No. EN 407 Level 4 does not mean that a wearer can safely or continuously hold an object at 500°C. Real-world protection also depends on contact duration, pressure, surface area, material conductivity, glove construction, lining, fit, moisture, wear, contamination, and the condition of the glove.
The wearer should stop contact before excessive heat transfers through the glove and must follow the manufacturer’s instructions, limitations, and workplace risk assessment.
What EN 407 Does Not Measure
EN 407 does not evaluate:
- Abrasion resistance
- Blade or ISO 13997 cut resistance
- Tear resistance
- Puncture resistance
- Complete welding-glove suitability by itself
Mechanical risks are evaluated under EN 388. Welding-specific requirements—including the relevant balance of thermal protection, mechanical protection, glove construction, coverage, and dexterity—are addressed under EN 12477.
Specialist tip:
Laboratory temperature ratings must always be interpreted together with exposure time and the complete glove construction. A 500°C contact heat test result is not an unlimited operating temperature or a guarantee against burns.
For a more detailed explanation of the six thermal tests, pictograms, rating positions, and performance levels, read our EN 407 thermal protection standard guide.
EN 388 vs EN 407 Performance Codes
EN 388 and EN 407 performance codes must be read according to their own test positions. EN 388 uses numbers, a cut-resistance letter, and optional impact marking to report mechanical performance. EN 407 uses six positions to report separate thermal tests. The values do not represent one overall glove-safety score.
How to Read EN 388 and EN 407 Markings
Read each marking from left to right beneath its standard pictogram. Every position represents a specific test, and the result applies only to that hazard. Buyers should therefore identify the standard first, locate the relevant code position, and then compare the model’s result with the hazards of the intended task.
| Marking Element | EN 388 | EN 407 | Buyer Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Scope | Mechanical risks | Thermal risks | Identify whether the task requires resistance to mechanical hazards, thermal hazards, or both. |
| Code Structure | Four numerical positions, one ISO 13997 cut-resistance letter, and an optional impact marking | Six positions representing six separate thermal tests | Read the code from left to right; each position has a different meaning. |
| Numerical Ratings | Numbers classify abrasion, Coup cut, tear, and puncture performance | Numbers generally classify flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal performance | A number applies only to the test occupying that specific code position. |
| Letter Ratings | A–F indicates ISO 13997 cut resistance | No equivalent A–F cut-resistance scale | An EN 388 cut letter cannot be compared with an EN 407 thermal level. |
| Meaning of X | No performance level is declared for that test position | No performance level is claimed for that thermal test position | X does not represent a protection level and should not be treated as zero. |
| Optional Impact Marking | P indicates that the optional impact test was passed in the tested area | No equivalent P impact marking | Impact performance belongs to EN 388 and should not be inferred from EN 407. |
| Meaning of a Higher Level | Higher performance only within the relevant mechanical test scale | Higher performance only within the relevant thermal test scale | Higher does not mean universally safer; it means stronger performance in one defined laboratory test. |
| Welding Selection | Helps assess risks from sharp edges, rough metal, abrasion, puncture, and optional impact | Helps assess risks from flame, heat, radiant energy, and molten-metal exposure | Welding-glove selection may require both codes together with EN 12477 and a task-specific risk assessment. |
EN 388 and EN 407 markings are hazard-specific performance codes, not overall glove grades. EN 388 reports mechanical test results, while EN 407 reports thermal test results. Buyers should identify the relevant hazard, read the correct code position, and verify the complete model-specific marking before selecting welding gloves.
Why Performance Levels Cannot Be Compared Directl
EN 388 and EN 407 performance levels cannot be compared directly because they measure different hazards using different laboratory tests, thresholds, and classification scales. Even within the same standard, a Level 4 result in one code position does not represent the same type or degree of protection as Level 4 in another position.
The ratings should therefore be interpreted by standard, code position, test method, and intended workplace hazard—not as a single overall score.
How EN 12477 Connects EN 388 and EN 407
EN 12477 is the welding-specific standard that brings relevant mechanical and thermal requirements together for protective gloves used in manual metal welding, cutting, and allied processes. It uses performance requirements associated with EN 388 and EN 407 while also addressing glove design, dimensions, coverage, construction, and dexterity.
What Is EN 12477?
EN 12477 specifies requirements and test methods for protective welding gloves. It assesses the combination of mechanical protection, thermal protection, glove construction, coverage, and dexterity needed for welding work. Gloves are classified as Type A or Type B according to their minimum protection and dexterity requirements.
Why EN 12477 Matters for Welding Gloves
EN 12477 matters because EN 388 and EN 407 evaluate separate hazard groups, while welding can expose the hands to both at the same time. The standard addresses:
- Welding-specific scope: Applies to protective gloves used for manual metal welding, cutting, and related processes.
- Mechanical protection: Uses relevant EN 388 requirements for abrasion, blade cut, tear, and puncture resistance.
- Thermal protection: Uses relevant EN 407 requirements for burning behaviour, contact heat, convective heat, and small molten-metal splashes.
- Glove dimensions and coverage: Includes requirements intended to protect the hand and wrist during welding operations.
- Dexterity: Distinguishes between gloves designed for greater protection and gloves designed for greater hand control.
- Construction requirements: Considers the complete glove rather than judging suitability from one material or rating alone.
EN 12477 Type A vs Type B Welding Gloves
EN 12477 Type A welding gloves prioritize higher minimum protection, while Type B welding gloves prioritize greater dexterity. Type A is generally associated with welding and cutting tasks requiring heavier protection. Type B is commonly associated with precision work such as TIG welding, where filler-rod control and finger movement are more important.
| Requirement | Type A | Type B | Practical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abrasion Resistance | EN 388 Level 2 | EN 388 Level 1 | Type A requires greater minimum resistance to repeated wear from rough plate, tools, and abrasive metal surfaces. |
| Blade-Cut Resistance | EN 388 Level 1 | EN 388 Level 1 | Both types have the same minimum blade-cut requirement; neither classification by itself indicates high cut protection. |
| Tear Resistance | EN 388 Level 2 | EN 388 Level 1 | Type A requires greater minimum resistance to the continuation of tears during heavier industrial handling. |
| Puncture Resistance | EN 388 Level 2 | EN 388 Level 1 | Type A requires greater minimum resistance to the standardized puncture test used for mechanical glove assessment. |
| Burning Behaviour | EN 407 Level 3 | EN 407 Level 2 | Type A requires higher minimum performance following controlled flame exposure. |
| Contact Heat | EN 407 Level 1 | EN 407 Level 1 | Both types share the same minimum contact-heat requirement; higher model-specific ratings may still be available. |
| Convective Heat | EN 407 Level 2 | No minimum level specified | Type A includes a minimum convective-heat requirement, while Type B prioritizes dexterity and has no minimum level in this row. |
| Small Molten-Metal Splashes | EN 407 Level 3 | EN 407 Level 2 | Type A requires greater minimum resistance to repeated small droplets of molten metal. |
| Dexterity | Level 1 | Level 4 | Type B requires substantially greater finger control and is often more suitable for precision welding tasks such as TIG welding. |
EN 12477 Type A and Type B welding gloves provide different protection-to-dexterity balances. Type A has higher minimum requirements for abrasion, tear, puncture, flame behaviour, convective heat, and small molten-metal splashes. Type B has lower minimum protection in several areas but requires much greater dexterity for precision work.
For broader information about EN 12477 welding gloves, Type A and Type B classifications, materials, safety standards, and glove selection, read our Complete Guide to Welding Gloves.
Why Welding Gloves May Need Both EN 388 and EN 407 Protection
Welding gloves may need both EN 388 and EN 407 performance because welding exposes the hands to mechanical and thermal hazards during the same task. EN 388 addresses risks such as abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures, while EN 407 evaluates heat, flame, radiant energy, and molten-metal exposure.
Mechanical Hazards in Welding
Mechanical Hazards in Welding
Welders frequently handle workpieces, tools, and fabricated components before, during, and after welding. Relevant mechanical hazards include:
- Sharp sheet metal: Unfinished edges and burrs can cut the glove material or skin.
- Rough plate: Repeated handling can produce abrasion and premature surface wear.
- Grinding debris: Metal fragments and abrasive particles may damage the glove exterior.
- Abrasion: Friction from tools, workpieces, and rough surfaces gradually weakens the material.
- Cuts: Sharp edges and fabricated components can create blade-cut hazards.
- Punctures: Protruding wire, sharp fragments, and pointed metal objects may penetrate the glove.
EN 388 performance results help buyers evaluate these hazards through separate tests for abrasion resistance, blade-cut resistance, tear resistance, puncture resistance, ISO 13997 cut resistance, and optional impact protection.
Thermal Hazards in Welding
Welding also exposes the hands to several forms of heat, which cannot be assessed through EN 388 ratings alone:
- Contact heat: Direct contact with hot workpieces, tools, or recently welded components.
- Radiant heat: Thermal energy emitted by the welding arc, heated metal, or nearby hot surfaces.
- Sparks: Small hot particles produced during welding, cutting, and grinding.
- Slag: Hot solid material that may detach from the weld or electrode.
- Welding spatter: Molten or semi-molten particles expelled during the welding process.
- Molten-metal droplets: Small quantities of liquid metal that may strike or remain on the glove surface.
EN 407 evaluates defined thermal properties such as limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure. OSHA likewise identifies heat, sparks, slag, burns, and cuts as relevant hot-work hazards.
Hazard-to-Standard Relationship
The applicable rating depends on the specific workplace hazard rather than the general description “welding glove.
| Workplace Hazard | Relevant Standard | Test Area | Selection Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Plate and Abrasive Surfaces | EN 388 | Abrasion resistance | Review the abrasion level when gloves will repeatedly contact rough steel, tools, or fabricated surfaces. |
| Sharp Sheet Metal and Edges | EN 388 | Coup blade cut and ISO 13997 cut resistance | Review the complete cut rating and do not assume that leather thickness alone establishes cut protection. |
| Tearing and Material Snagging | EN 388 | Tear resistance | Consider tear performance where gloves may catch on rough, unfinished, or projecting metal. |
| Pointed Metal and Sharp Fragments | EN 388 | Puncture resistance | The standardized puncture test does not represent protection against every needle-like or extremely sharp object. |
| Hot Workpieces and Tools | EN 407 | Contact heat | Check the contact-heat level together with exposure time, insulation, glove condition, and manufacturer limitations. |
| Welding Arc and Nearby Hot Surfaces | EN 407 | Radiant and convective heat | Contact-heat performance alone does not establish protection against radiant or convective heat. |
| Sparks, Slag, and Welding Spatter | EN 407 and EN 12477 | Limited flame spread, small molten-metal splashes, and welding-specific requirements | Consider the welding process, spatter intensity, seams, cuff coverage, glove construction, and complete performance code. |
| Combined Welding Hazards | EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477 | Mechanical, thermal, welding-specific, and dexterity requirements | Match the complete model-level results to the task rather than selecting gloves from one isolated rating. |
Welding glove selection may require both EN 388 and EN 407 because welders can encounter mechanical and thermal hazards simultaneously. EN 388 helps evaluate abrasion, cuts, tears, and punctures, while EN 407 evaluates defined heat, flame, radiant-energy, and molten-metal risks. EN 12477 adds the welding-specific protection and dexterity framework.
For a practical selection process based on welding type, heat exposure, mechanical hazards, glove construction, and dexterity, read our guide to choosing the right welding gloves.
EN 388 vs EN 407 for MIG, TIG, and Stick Welding
MIG, TIG, and Stick welding expose the hands to different combinations of heat, welding spatter, abrasion, sharp metal, and dexterity requirements. EN 388 helps assess mechanical protection, EN 407 evaluates thermal performance, and EN 12477 provides the welding-specific framework for selecting suitable protective gloves.
MIG Welding Gloves
MIG welding gloves generally require a balance of heat resistance, welding spatter protection, abrasion resistance, grip, and durability. Cowhide or split-leather constructions with reinforced seams and thermal lining are commonly used because MIG welding can produce repeated sparks and molten-metal spatter while also requiring safe handling of rough fabricated parts.
TIG Welding Gloves
TIG welding gloves prioritize dexterity, tactile sensitivity, and precise control of the torch and filler rod. They are commonly made from flexible goatskin or other soft leather constructions. Although TIG welding usually creates less spatter than MIG or Stick welding, the glove must still provide appropriate mechanical and thermal protection for the actual amperage, position, and workpiece temperature.
Stick Welding Gloves
Stick welding gloves generally require heavier protection against high heat, sparks, slag, welding spatter, abrasion, and rough metal surfaces. Thick split leather, insulated linings, reinforced seams, and extended cuffs are commonly used to improve durability and wrist or forearm coverage, although heavier construction may reduce fine finger control.
| Welding Process | Main Hazards | Priority Protection | Relevant Standards | Typical Glove Construction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIG Welding | Heat, sparks, repeated welding spatter, abrasion, and rough metal handling | Balanced thermal protection, spatter resistance, abrasion resistance, grip, and durability | EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477; Type A may be relevant where greater protection is required | Cowhide or split leather, reinforced seams, thermal lining, and protective cuff |
| TIG Welding | Contact heat, sharp metal, light spatter, and precision-handling demands | Dexterity, tactile sensitivity, finger control, and task-appropriate thermal protection | EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477; Type B is commonly associated with higher-dexterity welding work | Flexible goatskin or soft leather, lightweight seams, close fit, and extended cuff |
| Stick Welding | High heat, sparks, slag, heavy welding spatter, abrasion, and rough workpieces | Thermal insulation, flame and spatter resistance, mechanical durability, and hand coverage | EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477; Type A is commonly relevant where heavier protection is required | Thick split leather, insulated lining, reinforced seams, and long protective cuff |
MIG, TIG, and Stick welding gloves require different balances of mechanical protection, thermal protection, and dexterity. MIG gloves generally balance heat, spatter, and abrasion resistance; TIG gloves prioritize tactile control; and Stick welding gloves typically use heavier construction for heat, slag, sparks, and heavy spatter.
For a detailed comparison of materials, heat protection, dexterity, and applications, read our MIG vs TIG vs Stick welding gloves guide.
How to Choose the Correct Welding Glove Ratings
Choose welding glove ratings by matching the complete EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477 results to the actual welding process and workplace hazards. The correct glove must provide suitable mechanical protection, thermal protection, dexterity, coverage, and fit—not simply the highest number or an advertised temperature. OSHA likewise requires hand protection to be selected according to the identified hazards and conditions of use.
- Identify the welding process. Determine whether the gloves will be used for MIG, TIG, Stick welding, cutting, grinding, fabrication, or hot-metal handling.
- Identify the mechanical hazards. Assess abrasion, sharp sheet metal, blade-cut risks, tears, punctures, rough plate, grinding debris, and possible impact.
- Identify the thermal hazards. Consider contact heat, radiant heat, convective heat, sparks, slag, welding spatter, limited flame exposure, and molten-metal droplets.
- Check EN 12477 Type A or Type B. Type A generally prioritizes higher minimum protection, while Type B prioritizes dexterity. Select the type according to the welding process and task requirements—not as a simple quality ranking.
- Read the complete EN 388 code. Review abrasion, Coup blade-cut, tear, puncture, ISO 13997 cut resistance, and optional impact results separately.
- Read the complete EN 407 code. Check the individual results for limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure.
- Verify model-specific documentation. Confirm that the performance codes and certification documents apply to the exact glove model being purchased.
- Consider dexterity, cuff length, lining, and fit. The glove must provide adequate protection while allowing safe control of the torch, electrode, filler rod, tools, and workpiece.
- Inspect the glove condition. Heat damage, hardened leather, holes, failed seams, damaged lining, contamination, or reduced grip can compromise protection even when the original glove was certified.
- Match the glove to the workplace risk assessment. Review amperage, welding position, exposure duration, spatter intensity, workpiece temperature, handling requirements, and manufacturer limitations before making the final selection.
What Buyers Should Verify Before Purchase
Before purchasing professional welding gloves, verify:
- Exact glove model: The model number or product reference must match the supporting documentation.
- Standard edition: Check which editions of EN 12477, EN 388, EN 407, or other standards are declared.
- Full performance codes: Do not rely only on the presence of a pictogram or standard number.
- EU Declaration of Conformity: Confirm that the document identifies the product and the applicable PPE requirements.
- Test or certification documents: Review available model-specific reports, certificates, or technical documentation.
- Intended application: Confirm whether the glove is designed for MIG, TIG, Stick welding, cutting, fabrication, or another industrial task.
- Manufacturer limitations: Read the instructions for use, maintenance guidance, declared protection areas, and conditions the glove is not designed to address.
Under the EU PPE framework, manufacturers must provide conformity information that identifies the PPE and the applicable requirements. Buyers should therefore confirm the documentation for the exact model rather than assuming that one certificate applies to an entire product range.
Specialist tip:
Never select gloves only from marketing phrases such as “heat-proof welding gloves,” “cut-resistant welding gloves,” or “500°C welding gloves.” These descriptions do not replace the complete EN 388 and EN 407 performance codes, EN 12477 classification, exposure-time limits, manufacturer documentation, and workplace risk assessment.
For a complete process covering welding type, leather construction, heat exposure, fit, safety standards, and intended application, read our guide to choosing the right welding gloves.
Common EN 388 and EN 407 Misunderstandings
EN 388 and EN 407 ratings are often misinterpreted as overall safety scores. In reality, each standard measures different hazards, and every number or letter applies only to a specific laboratory test. Welding glove ratings must be interpreted by standard, code position, exposure conditions, and intended application.
| Common Claim | Verdict | Correct Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| EN 388 covers heat protection | Myth | EN 388 evaluates mechanical risks such as abrasion, blade cut, tear, puncture, ISO 13997 cut resistance, and optional impact. It does not measure contact heat, radiant heat, flame, or molten-metal exposure. |
| EN 407 covers cut resistance | Myth | EN 407 evaluates thermal risks, including limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure. Cut resistance is evaluated under EN 388. |
| Level 4 means maximum overall protection | Myth | Level 4 may be the highest classification for a particular test, but it applies only to that test position. It does not indicate maximum protection against every mechanical or thermal hazard. |
| A 500°C rating means continuous safe handling | Myth | EN 407 contact heat Level 4 is based on controlled laboratory testing at 500°C with a required threshold time. It does not mean that a wearer can safely or continuously hold an object at 500°C. |
| One standard is enough for every welding glove | Myth | Welding can involve mechanical and thermal hazards at the same time. EN 388 and EN 407 provide hazard-specific results, while EN 12477 addresses welding-specific glove requirements, protection, construction, coverage, and dexterity. |
| EN 12477 Type A is always better than Type B | Myth | Type A generally prioritizes higher minimum protection, while Type B prioritizes greater dexterity. The correct type depends on the welding process, heat and spatter exposure, hand-control requirements, and workplace risk assessment. |
EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477 must be interpreted according to their individual scopes. EN 388 covers mechanical risks, EN 407 covers thermal risks, and EN 12477 applies welding-specific requirements. No single rating, level, pictogram, or advertised temperature proves complete protection for every welding task.
EN 388 vs EN 407: Key Takeaways
EN 388, EN 407, and EN 12477 serve different but complementary purposes in welding glove selection. The correct protective gloves must be chosen by reading the complete performance codes and matching the model-specific results to the welding process, mechanical risks, thermal risks, and workplace conditions.
- EN 388 measures mechanical protection against abrasion, blade cuts, tears, punctures, ISO 13997 cut hazards, and optional impact.
- EN 407 measures thermal protection against limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure.
- EN 12477 applies specifically to welding gloves and brings together relevant mechanical, thermal, construction, coverage, and dexterity requirements.
- Ratings must be read as complete performance codes. Each number, letter, or marking relates to a separate test and should not be treated as an overall glove-safety score.
- Safety standards do not guarantee unlimited protection. Laboratory results apply under defined test conditions and must be interpreted with exposure time, glove construction, condition, and manufacturer limitations.
- Model-specific documentation must be verified. Buyers should confirm that performance codes, certificates, test reports, and the EU Declaration of Conformity apply to the exact welding glove model.
- Selection must match the welding process and actual hazards. MIG, TIG, and Stick welding may require different balances of heat resistance, welding spatter protection, abrasion resistance, dexterity, insulation, cuff coverage, and durability.
Final takeaway:
EN 388 identifies mechanical performance, EN 407 identifies thermal performance, and EN 12477 determines welding-specific requirements. The correct welding glove is the model whose complete ratings, construction, and limitations match the workplace risk assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between EN 388 and EN 407?
EN 388 evaluates mechanical protection, while EN 407 evaluates thermal protection. EN 388 covers abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, ISO 13997 cut resistance, and optional impact. EN 407 covers limited flame spread, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten-metal exposure. The standards are complementary, not interchangeable.
Does EN 388 cover heat resistance?
No, EN 388 does not measure heat resistance. It evaluates protective gloves against mechanical risks such as abrasion, blade cuts, tears, punctures, ISO 13997 cut hazards, and optional impact. Contact heat, radiant heat, flame behaviour, and molten-metal exposure are evaluated under thermal standards such as EN 407.
Does EN 407 cover cut resistance?
No, EN 407 does not evaluate cut resistance. It measures thermal performance against flame, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten metal. Cut resistance is evaluated under EN 388, using the Coup blade-cut test and, where applicable, the ISO 13997 cut-resistance classification from A to F.
Can welding gloves have both EN 388 and EN 407 ratings?
Yes, welding gloves can display both EN 388 and EN 407 performance codes. This is relevant because welding may expose the hands to mechanical hazards such as abrasion and sharp metal, as well as thermal hazards such as heat, sparks, and spatter. Welding-specific suitability should also be assessed under EN 12477.
What does EN 407 Level 4 contact heat mean?
EN 407 contact heat Level 4 means the tested glove assembly achieved the required threshold time during laboratory contact with a surface at 500°C. It represents performance under defined test conditions and does not mean the glove can safely or continuously handle every object at 500°C in real working conditions.
What does X mean in an EN 388 or EN 407 code?
X means that no performance level is declared for that test position. The test may not have been performed, may not have been applicable, or may not have produced a classifiable result. X should not be interpreted as a protection level, and it does not automatically mean that the glove failed the test.
What is EN 12477 for welding gloves?
EN 12477 is the welding-specific standard for protective gloves used in manual metal welding, cutting, and allied processes. It combines relevant mechanical and thermal requirements with glove construction, dimensions, coverage, and dexterity criteria. EN 12477 classifies welding gloves as Type A or Type B.
What is the difference between EN 12477 Type A and Type B?
Type A welding gloves prioritize higher minimum protection, while Type B gloves prioritize greater dexterity. Type A is generally associated with heavier welding and cutting tasks. Type B is commonly selected for precision work such as TIG welding. Neither type is automatically better; selection depends on the process and hazards.
Which standard is most important for welding gloves?
EN 12477 is the standard specifically intended for welding gloves, but EN 388 and EN 407 results remain important. EN 388 identifies mechanical performance, while EN 407 identifies thermal performance. Buyers should evaluate all applicable ratings together rather than relying on one standard, pictogram, or performance level.
Are EN 388 and EN 407 ratings directly comparable?
No, EN 388 and EN 407 ratings cannot be compared directly. They use different laboratory tests, thresholds, units, and classification scales. For example, EN 388 Level 4 abrasion resistance does not equal EN 407 Level 4 contact heat. Every result must be interpreted according to its standard and code position.
Do certified welding gloves guarantee complete protection?
No, certified welding gloves do not guarantee complete or unlimited protection. Certification reports performance under defined test conditions. Real-world protection also depends on exposure time, welding process, glove construction, fit, condition, contamination, maintenance, and correct use. Damaged gloves or gloves used outside their intended application may not provide adequate protection.
How should industrial buyers verify welding glove certification?
Industrial buyers should verify the exact glove model, applicable standard editions, complete EN 388 and EN 407 performance codes, EN 12477 classification, EU Declaration of Conformity, and available test or certification documents. They should also review the intended application, manufacturer limitations, care instructions, and whether the documented protection matches the workplace risk assessment.
