A valid test result is important, But I think we should not rely on it 100%.
I usually get a lot of interesting questions. One question that made me think, was when a customer asked me if they really needed to pay attention to EN standard test results when selling gloves. This customer even questioned whether the EN standard test results are reliable.
My answer is yes, and no.
Feelings are subjective, but numbers are not
Choosing the right glove for customers can be tricky, especially when dealing with new customers. With the EN standard test results, there is at least a guideline and something to refer to in terms of protection properties. It can, at the very least help to minimize the risk of recommending the wrong type of glove. Of course, you need to know how the EN standard works, but that knowledge should be a natural part of any company making glove sales.
A valid test is important, but remember it's a lab simulation
I consider the EN standard as very important, but it is not always easy to apply the test results to real-life situations. A metal burr can be dangerously sharp, just like thin metal wires, but none of the tests in the EN388 standard simulates this situation in a reliable way. That is why you should always remember that the test protection levels is just a general guideline.
What glove do you need, look at the big picture
My opinion: When choosing gloves, don't look only at the protection ratings. Always look at the big picture and compare it to your customers' real-life situations. Features like high dexterity, enhanced grip, oil and water resistance, may play equally important roles in keeping your customers safe.
Sample for a test run
A glove with the highest level of protection, won't necessarily be the glove that is best for your customer or the job they are doing. The highest protection might sacrifice dexterity or affect the price to be unnecessarily high. I generally suggest getting some samples for a test run first. After evaluation, it is much easier to decide if the choice was right before buying in larger volumes. Invest the time and effort into getting the right glove. It will be worth it in the long run.
Knowing your EN standards, looking at the big picture and doing a sample test run, is what I think is a good practice when choosing gloves for your customers. These are my thoughts. What do you think? Drop me a comment.