Protective gloves against dangerous chemicals and micro-organisms according to ISO 374-2:2019

Part 2: Determination of resistance to penetration
chemical gloves
Testing lab
Chemical lab
Legislation
PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425
Testing standard

EN ISO 374-2:2019

Principle

Assessment whether a protective glove acts as an effective barrier against liquid and/or air penetration. Penetration occurs when chemicals, liquids, or microorganisms pass through porous materials, seams, pinholes, or other imperfections.

Air Leak Test (Inflation Test)

Purpose: 

  • Detect air leakage through pinholes or seams.

Method:

  • The glove is filled with air and submerged in water.
  • Pressure is applied (typically 1–2 kPa).
  • The glove is observed for any bubbles, which would indicate a leak.

Duration: 

  • Usually 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

Pass Criteria: 

  • No bubbles = pass (no leakage).

Water Leak Test

Purpose: 

  • Detect water leakage through defects in glove materials.

Method:

  • The glove is filled with water and suspended vertically.
  • It is observed for a fixed period (typically 2 minutes).
  • Any droplet formation on the outer surface is considered a failure.

Volume: 

  • Usually filled with 1 liter of water (or to cuff level).

Pass Criteria: 

  • No droplets = pass.

Pass/Fail Criteria and Classification

Gloves are tested in accordance with ISO 2859-1 sampling procedures (based on statistical AQL – Acceptable Quality Level).

  • Typical AQL Levels:
    • Level 1: AQL 4.0 (low protection)
    • Level 2: AQL 1.5 (medium protection)
    • Level 3: AQL 0.65 (high protection)

To comply with EN ISO 374-2, no failures should exceed the AQL limit for the chosen performance level.

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