Understanding Safety Glove Standards
ANSI/ISEA 105 Cut Resistance Levels
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) rates cut resistance on a scale from A1 to A9:
- A1-A3: Light cut resistance for general assembly, packaging, and material handling
- A4-A6: Moderate cut protection for glass handling, automotive assembly, and construction
- A7-A9: Maximum cut protection for metal fabrication, recycling, and sharp material handling
Chemical Resistance
Chemical-resistant gloves are rated by breakthrough time and permeation rate. Common materials include:
- Nitrile: Excellent for oils, fuels, solvents, and chemicals
- Neoprene: Good for acids, caustics, and alcohols
- PVC: Suitable for abrasion and puncture resistance
- Butyl Rubber: Specialized for ketones and esters
Key Selection Factors
1. Hazard Assessment
Identify the specific hazards in your workplace:
- Sharp edges or materials
- Chemical exposure
- Heat or cold
- Electrical work
- Biological contaminants
2. Dexterity Requirements
Consider the level of finger dexterity needed:
- High dexterity: Thin gauge (3-5 mil) for precision work
- Medium dexterity: Medium gauge (6-10 mil) for general tasks
- Low dexterity: Heavy gauge (11+ mil) for maximum protection
3. Grip and Texture
Different textures provide varying levels of grip:
- Smooth: Best for small parts handling
- Micro-roughened: Good for light oil conditions
- Textured: Excellent for wet or oily applications
- Coated palms: Maximum grip in challenging conditions
4. Proper Sizing
Ill-fitting gloves reduce protection and dexterity:
- Measure hand circumference around the palm
- Consider glove length (wrist, gauntlet styles)
- Try samples before bulk purchasing
Industry Applications
Manufacturing
- Assembly line work: A2-A4 cut resistance
- Metal fabrication: A5-A7 with impact protection
- Electronics: Thin nitrile or latex for ESD protection
Construction
- General construction: A3-A4 with leather palms
- Demolition: A5+ with reinforced fingertips
- Concrete work: Chemical-resistant with abrasion protection
Automotive
- Parts assembly: A2-A3 nitrile gloves
- Maintenance: Chemical-resistant with grip coating
- Glass handling: A4-A6 cut resistance
Maintenance and Replacement
When to Replace Gloves
- Visible cuts, tears, or holes
- Chemical degradation (swelling, discoloration)
- Loss of grip or dexterity
- After chemical exposure (for chemical-resistant types)
Proper Care
- Inspect before each use
- Clean reusable gloves according to manufacturer instructions
- Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
- Replace disposable gloves after each task
Compliance and Certification
Look for gloves that meet these standards:
- ANSI/ISEA 105: Cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance
- EN 388: European standard for mechanical risks
- ASTM D6978: Chemical permeation testing
- NFPA 1951: Technical rescue gloves
Bulk Purchasing Considerations
When buying safety gloves in bulk:
- Request samples for evaluation
- Consider total cost of ownership (durability vs. price)
- Verify supplier certifications and quality control
- Check lead times and availability
- Ask about volume discounts and consignment options