Question 1

How do I read the EN 388 rating and choose a cut level?

Accepted Answer

The EN 388 code reads abrasion, Coup-test cut, tear, puncture, then the ISO 13997 cut letter (A-F) and optional impact (P). For cut risk, the ISO 13997 A-F grade is now the primary reference because hard or glass-fibre yarns can blunt the older Coup test. Match the grade to the sharpest edge handled rather than the highest available. Share your task and hazard list and we match abrasion, cut and grip to the application.

Question 2

What's the MOQ for safety gloves?

Accepted Answer

For high-volume coated knitted gloves, typical MOQ starts around 1,000-5,000 pairs per SKU and size depending on coating and liner. Specialty cut-resistant, chemical or leather welding gloves often run lower minimums in the hundreds. Consolidating sizes and styles into one order usually allows partners to accept smaller quantities per line.

Question 3

Are EN 388 and chemical-resistant gloves available with notified-body certification?

Accepted Answer

Where specified, partner manufacturers supply gloves CE-marked under EU PPE Regulation 2016/425, tested and marked to EN 388 (mechanical) and, for chemical work, EN ISO 374; Category II and III gloves carry notified-body EU type-examination, and Category III adds production surveillance. The test report and Declaration of Conformity ship with the goods, and ANSI/ISEA 105 ratings are available where required.

Question 4

Can coating, liner, cuff and food-contact compliance be configured?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes. Buyers typically specify nitrile / PU / latex coating and coverage (palm, 3/4 or full dip), liner yarn and gauge, cuff style and length, grip texture, and food-contact (EU 1935/2004) compliance where needed. Colour and brand printing are configured per order, with the EN performance levels confirmed against the chosen build.

Question 5

Do your partners supply distributor and industrial OEM gloves?

Accepted Answer

A subset of Himalay's partner network supplies safety distributors and industrial OEMs and runs private-label glove programmes; share your spec and brand artwork at inquiry and we match a qualified manufacturer. OEM and private-label arrangements, including custom colours, cuff branding and packaging, are arranged where supported.

Question 6

How long does a glove order take to deliver?

Accepted Answer

Catalogue coated knitted gloves generally take around 3-5 weeks to manufacture, test and pack; specialty cut, chemical or certified Category III gloves can run longer. Full CIF to Rotterdam, Antwerp, Jebel Ali or Dammam is typically 6-12 weeks door-to-door for standard lines.

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