Standards for gloves that protect against viruses

1. When choosing a glove for protection against viruses like the one that causes COVID-19, it’s important to know which regulatory standards exist to help ensure proper protection. In the European Union, the EN ISO 374-5 VIRUS standard measures the ability of gloves to protect users against bacteria, fungi and viruses. Gloves featuring the EN 374-5 VIRUS marking on packaging have been proven to not leak when tested according to EN 374-2: 2014. In North America, the ability of gloves to protect against micro-organisms is defined by ASTM F 1671. Just like with ISO 16603/16604, a bac teriophage is added to one side of a testing chamber and pressure is applied for a period of time. This test measures if any micro-organisms, like viruse s, pass through the glove. Protective gloves against micro-organisms In the European Union, gloves must pass the leak test according to EN 374-2: 2014. The possibility of claiming protection against viruses has been added if the glove passes the ISO 16604: 2004 test (method B). In North America, gloves must pass ASTM F 1671 pass/fail test to certify protection against micro-organisms like bacteria or viruses. Differences Between Bacteria and Viruses Wear properly fitting gloves with a close fit around fingers and wrists to reduce the risk of exposure Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before putting on gloves and after taking them off Never reuse or wash single-use or exam gloves Never use damaged or visibly soiled gloves Do not touch your face while wearing gloves Ansell, ® and ™ are trademarks owned by Ansell Limited or one of its affiliates. © 2020 All Rights R eserved. Visit Ansell.com to discover the latest updates on global PPE regulations and explore our full range of products certified to protect against exposure to viruses. EN ISO 374-5 VIRUS AND ASTM F 1671 STANDARDS OVERVIEW Best practices for glove use EN ISO 374-5 : For gloves offering protection against bacteria and fungi. Gloves that meet the EN 374-5 VIRUS or ASTM F 1671 Standards are further tested to protect against much smaller viruses Bacteria are usually 1 to 10 micrometers. On the other hand, the size of a virus is 1/10 to 1/100 of bacteria. The small size of a virus makes it easy to pass through the pinholes in ordinary protective gloves. Gloves that meet the EN 374-5 VIRUS or ASTM F 1671 Standards, however, are proven to act as an effective barrier even against small viruses. Size of bacteria Size of Virus VIRUS or ASTM F 1671