How to read EN 388 cut resistance levels correctly?
The four to six characters of EN 388 tell you exactly how well a glove resists abrasion, cutting, tearing and puncture. This guide explains every position in the code, the TDM cut test with the letters A to F to ISO 13997 and how to derive the right cut level for your task.
View cut-resistant glovesHow do you read the EN 388 code?
After the hammer pictogram of EN 388 come up to six characters in a fixed order. The first four are digits, followed optionally by a letter for the TDM cut test and a further letter for impact protection. Each position represents its own test and its own protection level.
The order is: abrasion resistance (0‑4), cut resistance coupe test (0‑5), tear resistance (0‑4) and puncture resistance (0‑4). An X in a position means the test was not applicable or not performed, not that the glove failed.
Why is there a TDM cut test A to F?
The classic coupe test (2nd digit) uses a rotating circular blade and dulls itself when facing cut-inhibiting fibres such as glass or steel. That is why EN 388:2016 added the TDM test to ISO 13997, which uses a straight, always-fresh blade and measures the cut force in newtons.
This force yields the letters A to F. The higher the letter, the more force is needed to cut through and the better the cut protection. For gloves made from high cut-resistant yarns, the TDM value is the more reliable figure than the old coupe digit.
Which cut level suits the task?
The right level follows from the risk assessment: how sharp are the edges, how high is the contact force and how often does contact occur? Too high a level costs dexterity and touch sensitivity, too low a level does not protect enough.
- Light assembly, plastic parts: coupe level 1‑2 or TDM A-B are sufficient.
- Sheet-metal work, glass handling, automotive: choose TDM level C to D.
- Recycling, stamping, sharp blades: plan for TDM level E or F.
- For contact with pointed objects also check the 4th digit (puncture).
- Impact hazard on the back of the hand: prefer a model with the sixth letter P.
Frequently asked questions
What does an X in the EN 388 code mean?
An X shows that the relevant test was not performed or was not meaningful. It is not a rating and does not mean the glove fails at that property.
Coupe digit or TDM letter - which counts?
With cut-inhibiting yarns such as glass or steel the coupe blade dulls, so the TDM letter A to F to ISO 13997 is more reliable. If both are shown, follow the TDM value for sharp metal edges.
Which level do I need for sheet-metal work?
For sharp sheet and glass edges TDM level C or D is usually sensible, meaning 10 to 22 newtons of cut force. The specific risk assessment remains decisive.
Does EN 388 also protect against needle sticks?
No. The puncture test uses a standard stylus and does not represent thin injection or sewing needles. Needle protection requires special tested gloves.
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