The standard EN388 score (e.g., 4X42C) defines protective performance across 5 specific mechanical hazards:
| Parameter |
Rating Scale |
Test Description |
| 1. Abrasion Resistance |
Level 1 – 4 |
Rotary friction cycles required to wear through material. |
| 2. Coupe Cut Test |
Level 1 – 5 (or X) |
Rotary blade test (used for non-high-cut materials). |
| 3. Tear Resistance |
Level 1 – 4 |
Force required to tear material sample apart. |
| 4. Puncture Resistance |
Level 1 – 4 |
Force required to pierce sample with a standard spike. |
| 5. ISO 13997 Cut (TDM) |
Cut A – F |
Straight-edge sliding blade test for heavy sharp hazards. |
| 6. Impact Protection |
P (Pass) or Blank |
Knuckle and dorsal shock absorption testing. |
ISO 13997 Cut Standard Reference
| ISO Rating |
ANSI Equiv. |
Hazard Tier |
Typical Applications |
| Cut A |
A1 – A2 |
Standard Risk |
Warehouse, packaging, light assembly. |
| Cut B |
A2 – A3 |
Light Hazard |
Construction finishing, HVAC, general sorting. |
| Cut C |
A3 – A4 |
Medium Hazard |
Sheet metal handling, glass handling, automotive lines. |
| Cut D |
A4 – A5 |
Medium / High |
Metal fabrication, stamping lines, equipment repair. |
| Cut E |
A6 – A7 |
High Hazard |
Sharp steel plate handling, timber processing. |
| Cut F |
A8 – A9 |
Extreme Hazard |
Structural metal shearing, demolition, heavy recycling. |
