EN 511:2006
Hands are among the most vulnerable parts of the body in cold environments. Exposure to freezing air, wet conditions, or direct contact with cold surfaces can quickly reduce dexterity and cause injuries. EN 511:2006 defines the requirements and test methods for gloves that protect against convective and conductive cold down to -50°C.
This standard applies to gloves designed to protect against weather-related cold and cold linked to industrial activity.
Scope of EN 511
EN 511 covers:
- Convective cold – cold transferred through air and wind exposure
- Conductive cold – cold transferred by direct contact with cold objects
- Water penetration – resistance against water ingress that worsens cold exposure
Gloves must also achieve at least level 1 abrasion and tear resistance under EN 388.
Performance Ratings
EN 511 gloves are marked with a pictogram, accompanied by a 3-character code (a, b, c):
| Code | Test | Performance Levels | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| a | Resistance to convective cold | 0–4 | Insulation against cold transfer by convection (air/wind). 4 = best protection |
| b | Resistance to contact cold | 0–4 | Insulation when touching cold objects. 4 = best protection |
| c | Water permeability | 0 or 1 | 0 = water penetrates in 5 min, 1 = no penetration in 5 min |
Example: EN 511: 3 2 1 → Level 3 convective cold resistance, Level 2 contact cold resistance, water penetration resistant.
Key Notes
If a glove scores less than level 2 in abrasion or tear resistance (EN 388), then convective and contact cold results cannot exceed level 1.
Wetness significantly reduces insulation, even in gloves rated at higher levels.
Gloves not tested for one of the criteria will show an “X” instead of a number.
Why EN 511 Matters
Cold risks are present in many industries beyond outdoor winter work:
- Maritime & Offshore – freezing winds, wet decks, and icy conditions at sea.
- Petrochemical – cold storage, handling chilled materials, and winter operations.
- Construction – outdoor worksites exposed to wind, rain, and snow.
By certifying gloves to EN 511, employers can provide workers with reliable hand protection that preserves dexterity, safety, and comfort in cold environments.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between convective and contact cold?
- Convective cold: cold transferred through air and wind.
- Contact cold: cold transferred through direct touch with a cold surface.