Views: 99 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-03 Origin: Site
In cold work environments, keeping hands protected is not just a matter of comfort — it's a matter of safety and performance. The EN 511 standard is the European testing method that classifies protective gloves for cold environments, ensuring workers are properly equipped to handle low temperatures, moisture, and icy conditions. Whether you're in construction, warehousing, or cold storage, understanding EN 511 can help you choose the right gloves for the job.
The EN 511:2006 standard defines the requirements and testing methods for gloves that protect against cold risks, including:
Convective cold
Contact cold
Water penetration
Gloves certified under EN 511 are labeled with a three-digit performance code (e.g., EN 511: 231), representing the glove's resistance to each of the cold hazards tested.
Each digit in the EN 511 code corresponds to a specific protective function:
This test measures how well a glove insulates against cold air flowing around it.
A higher number indicates better insulation and reduced heat loss.
Level 0 means no protection; Level 4 is the highest protection.
Measures how well the glove resists cold transmission through direct contact with a cold object or surface.
Similar to thermal conductivity testing.
Level 4 offers the best resistance.
Evaluates if water can penetrate the glove within 30 minutes.
0 = Water penetrates within 30 minutes.
1 = No water penetration after 30 minutes.
Example: A glove labeled EN 511: 231 means it has:
Level 2 convective cold resistance
Level 3 contact cold resistance
Level 1 water resistance
Choosing gloves with EN 511 certification ensures:
Reliable insulation in cold environments
Prevention of frostbite or cold-related injuries
Improved dexterity and comfort during extended cold exposure
Compliance with international safety standards
These gloves are especially critical in industries such as:
Cold storage & logistics
Outdoor construction & utilities
Frozen food handling
Winter road maintenance
Oil & gas fieldwork
While EN 511 focuses on cold protection, EN 388 is the standard for mechanical hazards like abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture. Some cold-resistant gloves are dual-certified, meaning they provide both thermal insulation and mechanical safety — ideal for harsh working environments.
At LITA SAFETY, we manufacture and supply EN 511-certified gloves with:
Durable thermal insulation
Superior grip in cold conditions
Custom OEM/ODM solutions for global wholesalers and safety brands
With over a decade of expertise, top-level R&D, and global reach, we help you meet safety standards while maximizing performance in extreme environments.
Need cold-resistant gloves tailored for your industry?
Contact LITA SAFETY today at info@litasafety.com to explore our OEM/ODM services and product catalog.
