TS EN ISO 374-5

TS EN ISO 374-5 addresses the terminology, performance requirements and related test approach for protective gloves intended to protect against micro-organisms. In the context of the 374 series, it focuses specifically on how gloves claiming micro-organism protection are identified and assessed, rather than on chemical or other hazard categories covered by other parts of the family.

In general technical terms, micro-organism risks involve potential exposure to biological agents such as bacteria, fungi and viruses. Protective gloves act as a barrier intended to reduce direct contact with the skin, but their effectiveness depends on glove material, construction, integrity and the conditions of use. For that reason, this standard helps define the performance framework for making a micro-organism protection claim, instead of treating all protective gloves as interchangeable.

The standard also notes that if additional protection is needed against other hazards, the appropriate specific performance standard should be used alongside it. In practice, micro-organism protection does not automatically mean chemical, mechanical, thermal or electrostatic protection; each hazard category may need separate evaluation. This makes the standard useful for correctly matching a glove to its intended application and associated risk profile.

• Frames terminology and performance requirements for risks from micro-organisms.
• Focuses on the test and performance approach used for assessing protective gloves against micro-organisms.
• Indicates that chemical, mechanical, thermal or electrostatic protection must be covered by the relevant additional standards.
• Helps establish a common technical language within the protective glove standards family.