EN ISO 11393-4 Standard – Protective Gloves for Chainsaw Use
EN ISO 11393-4 is an international safety standard that defines the performance and testing requirements for gloves designed to protect against cuts from hand-held chainsaws. It ensures that gloves meet rigorous criteria for durability, cut resistance, and design to reduce injury risks in high-hazard environments.
What Does EN ISO 11393-4 Define?
EN ISO 11393-4 outlines how chainsaw protective gloves are classified and tested to ensure they meet safety requirements. The standard focuses on two key aspects: Class and Type, along with glove design.
Class: Chain Speed Protection
Gloves are tested against different chain speeds, categorized into four classes (class 0 - class 4):
| Class | Chain Speed |
|---|---|
| Class 0 | 16 m/s |
| Class 1 | 20 m/s |
| Class 2 | 24 m/s |
| Class 3 | 28 m/s |
Higher classes offer protection against faster-moving chains, suitable for more demanding work environments.
Type: Hand Protection Coverage
- Type 1 gloves provide saw protection on both hands.
- Type 2 gloves offer protection only on the left hand, typically used by right-handed chainsaw operators.
Design: Protective Areas
- Design A includes protection on the back of the hand.
- Design B extends protection to both the back of the hand and the fingers.
These classifications help professionals choose the right glove based on their specific tasks and safety needs.
Who Needs EN ISO 11393-4 Compliant Gloves?
Professionals working in environments where chainsaws are used regularly rely on gloves certified to this standard. These include:
- Forestry workers
- Tree surgeons and arborists
- Landscapers
- Utility and maintenance crews
- Construction and demolition teams
- Emergency responders (e.g., fire and rescue)
These gloves are essential for anyone operating chainsaws in professional or industrial settings, where safety and compliance are critical.
Why This Standard Matters
Chainsaws are powerful tools with high injury potential. EN ISO 11393-4 ensures that gloves:
- Minimize injury risk by slowing or stopping the chain on contact.
- Provide consistent protection across different glove types and manufacturers.
- Support workplace safety compliance with European PPE regulations.
By choosing gloves that meet this standard, users and safety managers can be confident in their protective gear’s performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on EN ISO 11393-4
What does EN ISO 11393-4 test for?
It tests gloves for resistance to chainsaw cuts, durability, and protective coverage.
What Chain Speeds Are Covered in the Standard?
Classes range from 16 m/s (Class 0) to 28 m/s (Class 3).
Is EN ISO 11393-4 the Same as EN 381-7?
No. EN ISO 11393-4 replaces EN 381-7 with updated testing methods and classifications.
How Do I Know If Gloves Are Compliant?
Look for certification markings and documentation from the manufacturer indicating compliance with EN ISO 11393-4.
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