What does 4X31B on a glove mean? Besides the EN 388 pictogram, cut-resistant gloves carry a sequence of digits and letters. Once you can read it, you can compare gloves on facts rather than on marketing claims. This guide explains how the marking is structured, using three gloves by the manufacturer NITRAS SAFETY, and shows what to look for when choosing. You will find all models in our category Cut-resistant gloves.
How the EN 388 marking is structured
EN 388 applies to protective gloves against mechanical hazards. According to the German statutory accident insurance (DGUV) guidance FBFHB-023, the performance levels achieved are shown below the EN 388 pictogram. The marking consists of several positions, and each position stands for a separate test. It is read from left to right.
The four digits
- First position: abrasion resistance.
- Second position: cut resistance, given as a digit.
- Third position: tear resistance.
- Fourth position: puncture resistance.
The digits are performance levels, the lowest level being 1. A higher digit stands for a higher performance level in that test.
The letter and the X
The fifth position is a letter from A to F or an X. A letter from A to F shows that cut resistance was tested by a second test method, the TDM test; A is the lowest and F the highest performance level. An X in the fifth position means that no test was carried out by this method. If the X is in the second position instead, cut resistance was tested only in the TDM test. So an X is not a performance level, but shows that no test was carried out by the respective method.
A sixth position, the letter P, is given if a test for protection against impact was also carried out. This test is optional.
How the tests are carried out in detail is laid down in the standard itself. The manufacturer's specifications apply to your glove.
Three gloves, three markings
NITRAS CUT3: 4X31B
The NITRAS CUT3, cut protection gloves, grey / black, EN 388 is made of grey special yarn with a black PU coating on the palm and fingertips and has a knitted cuff. Its marking 4X31B means: abrasion 4, cut as a digit X (so tested only in the TDM test), tear 3, puncture 1, cut resistance in the TDM test B. Size range 06-11.
NITRAS cut-resistant glove in white: 4X42C
The NITRAS cut protection gloves, white / white, EN 388 is made of white special yarn with a white PU coating, also partially coated. Compared with the CUT3, its marking 4X42C shows higher performance levels for tear and puncture and level C instead of B in the TDM test. Size range 06-11, packaging unit 100 pairs.
NITRAS NYLOTEX: 3131X
The NITRAS NYLOTEX, nylon gloves, grey / black, EN 388 is a nylon glove with a black latex coating for very good grip. Its marking 3131X gives a cut performance level as a digit in the second position; the X in the fifth position shows that it was not tested in the TDM test. According to the manufacturer, it is designed for grip and dexterity. If cut protection is the priority, deliberately compare its marking with the two cut-resistant models.
How to compare markings correctly
Always compare position by position and only like tests with each other. The digit in the second position and the letter in the fifth position come from two different test methods with their own levels. A glove with an X in the second position and a letter in the fifth position therefore cannot be compared position by position on cut with a glove that only has a digit in the second position.
- For cut risks, the second and fifth positions matter most.
- For rough surfaces and frequent gripping, abrasion resistance counts.
- For pointed parts, puncture resistance is important.
Besides the marking, fit, grip and wearing comfort decide whether a glove is actually worn in daily work.
Typical applications
Picking and dispatch
Handling boxes, strapping and film quickly leads to small cuts. A partially coated cut-resistant glove lets the hand breathe and offers grip on smooth surfaces.
Workshop with sheet metal and edges
Anyone moving sheet metal, profiles or sharp-edged components should pay particular attention to the cut values. Here it is worth looking at the letter in the fifth position.
Production and assembly
In assembly work, dexterity and grip count. For all three models, the manufacturer lists vehicle manufacturing as well as construction and plumbing among the areas of use.
Frequently asked questions
Is a glove with an X worse?
Not necessarily. An X is not a performance level: in the fifth position it means that no TDM test was carried out; in the second position, that cut resistance was tested only in the TDM test. For cut, the other rating then counts.
Which of the three gloves has the highest cut values?
According to the marking, the white NITRAS cut-resistant glove with 4X42C shows the higher performance level in the TDM test (C) compared with the CUT3 with 4X31B (B). The NYLOTEX was not tested in the TDM test (X).
Which size do I need?
The cut-resistant models come in the size range 06-11, the NYLOTEX in the range 07-12. A glove should fit snugly without restricting movement.
Does the marking replace a risk assessment?
No. The protection you need follows from your work. The marking only helps you compare suitable gloves.
Conclusion
The EN 388 marking can be read position by position: four digits for abrasion, cut, tear and puncture, then a letter for cut in the TDM test. Compare like positions with each other and choose the glove according to your risk. You will find all models under Cut-resistant gloves. We are happy to advise you: +49 2237 628095-00, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
This article is a selection guide – the manufacturer's operating instructions apply for use and inspection.