Key Highlights
A practical guide to EN ISO 374, permeation time and glove material choice for chemical handling tasks.
The most common mistake in chemical glove selection is choosing by product name or thickness alone. The same chemical can create very different risks depending on concentration and exposure duration. ## 1. Define the chemical and the exposure type What is the chemical, what is the concentration, and is the contact splash-based or continuous? Cleaning, transfer, filling, sampling and maintenance tasks rarely require the same glove. ## 2. Read permeation and degradation together Breakthrough time matters, but so does how the material physically changes after contact. A glove with a long permeation score can still become unsafe if it loses grip or flexibility. ## 3. EN ISO 374 should be interpreted The standard and pictograms are useful, but selection is incomplete unless you match the exact chemicals and protection index to the process in question. ## 4. Cuff length and coating affect real performance Longer cuffs help where splash can reach the wrist or forearm. In oily or wet handling tasks, coating and grip performance also matter. ## 5. One glove rarely fits every line Paint operations, CIP cleaning, acid and caustic transfer, and laboratory sampling can all demand different solutions. ## Procurement checklist - Is the chemical list and concentration table complete? - Is exposure duration and contact type defined? - Were permeation and degradation reviewed together? - Were grip, dexterity and cuff needs evaluated? - Has user testing and replacement timing been planned?
