Overview
EN ISO 11393-4:2019 (ISO 11393-4:2018) specifies performance requirements and test methods for protective gloves intended to reduce injury from cutting by hand‑held chainsaws. Adopted by CEN, this European standard defines design types, protective coverage, cut‑resistance testing, ergonomic and marking requirements, and the information manufacturers must supply. Annex A gives guidance on chainsaw use and the selection of appropriate gloves. EN ISO 11393-4:2019 replaces earlier EN 381‑4:1999 and EN 381‑7:1999 standards.
Key Topics
- Scope and purpose: Defines gloves that protect against chainsaw cutting and sets the laboratory test methods and performance criteria.
- Designs and protective areas: Describes glove designs (e.g., Design A and B) and the specified protective areas for left and right hands or mitts.
- Cut resistance classification: Requires classification of gloves according to chainsaw chain speed and sets minimum resistance test requirements.
- Test methods and test rig: Details the chainsaw cut test procedure, including test rig configuration, artificial hand mounting devices, cleaning and mounting rules, and cutting protocol.
- Ergonomics and dexterity: Specifies ergonomic requirements and a hand‑grip/dexterity assessment to ensure protection does not unduly impair use.
- Marking, pictogram and information: Requires standardized marking, pictogram and manufacturer information to aid selection and compliance.
- Manufacturer responsibilities: Lists information to be supplied and references conformity with regulatory requirements (e.g., Regulation (EU) 2016/425).
Applications
- Glove manufacturers and designers: Use the standard to develop, test and certify chainsaw‑protective gloves that meet recognized performance criteria.
- Test laboratories and conformity assessors: Implement the specified test rig and procedures to evaluate product performance and assign protection classes.
- Procurement and safety managers: Select appropriate PPE for forestry, arboriculture, timber harvesting, landscaping and maintenance teams based on standardized classifications.
- Regulatory compliance: Supports conformity assessment under EU PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 when cited in the Official Journal.
Related Standards
- Superseded: EN 381‑4:1999 and EN 381‑7:1999
- Linked regulatory document: Regulation (EU) 2016/425 (personal protective equipment)
- Developed under ISO/TC 94 and CEN/TC 162 technical committees
EN ISO 11393-4:2019 is essential for stakeholders involved in chainsaw safety, offering clear test methods, performance levels and labeling to reduce hand injuries from hand‑held chainsaws.
