What is BS EN 45554:2017?

BS EN 45554:2017 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements for the design and construction of safety gloves used in various industries. This standard provides guidelines to ensure the gloves offer adequate protection to the wearer against specific hazards and risks.

How does BS EN 45554:2017 benefit workers?

By complying with the requirements of BS EN 45554:2017, workers can have increased confidence in the protective capabilities of their gloves. The standard sets minimum performance criteria for gloves related to mechanical resistance, chemical permeation, and biological resistance. It ensures that gloves are manufactured with materials that are suitable for the intended use.

Key considerations in BS EN 45554:2017

The standard emphasizes several key aspects that manufacturers and users of safety gloves should consider:

Performance levels: BS EN 45554:2017 provides different performance levels that classify the gloves based on their resistance to mechanical hazards such as abrasion, puncture, and tear resistance. This classification helps users select gloves appropriate for their specific work environments.

Chemical permeation resistance: The standard requires gloves to undergo testing to determine their resistance against penetration by hazardous substances. This helps protect workers from potential skin damage or contamination when handling chemicals.

Biological resistance: BS EN 45554:2017 considers the biocompatibility and resistance of gloves towards viruses and bacteria. This is particularly important in healthcare settings where individuals need protection from cross-contamination.

Conclusion

BS EN 45554:2017 plays a vital role in ensuring that workers are equipped with reliable and effective safety gloves. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can produce gloves that meet specific performance criteria, thereby offering enhanced protection to workers. Simultaneously, workers and employers can refer to BS EN 45554:2017 to select appropriate gloves based on the specific hazards they face in their respective work environments.