When it comes to workplace safety, understanding cut resistance standards is critical. Without the right gloves, workers face serious risks from sharp tools or materials. So, how do ANSI/ISEA standards help?
ANSI/ISEA standards define the levels of cut resistance, impact resistance, and other performance factors for industrial gloves. They provide a uniform testing framework for safety and reliability.
Choosing the wrong protective gloves can lead to injuries, lawsuits, or production delays. Let’s break down the key components of ANSI/ISEA standards and why they matter.
What is the ANSI ISEA cut rating?
The ANSI/ISEA cut rating is a critical measure of a glove's ability to resist cuts under controlled conditions.
It categorizes gloves into 9 levels (A1 to A9) based on the amount of cutting force (measured in grams) they can withstand.
ANSI cut ratings help employers choose gloves suitable for specific hazards. Let’s dive deeper into how these ratings are determined and applied.
How are cut ratings determined?
Cut resistance is tested using the ASTM F2992-15 standard. The test measures the force (in grams) required to cut through glove material with a straight-edge blade. The force is then matched to one of the ANSI/ISEA cut levels:
| Cut Level | Cut Force (grams) | Risk Environment |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 200–499 | Light-duty tasks |
| A4 | 1500–2199 | Medium industrial hazards |
| A9 | 6000+ | Extreme risks, heavy-duty |
Each rating provides specific guidance for environments, from handling paper to working with sharp metals.
Why do cut ratings matter?
Understanding these levels ensures proper safety. For instance:
- Workers handling glass need A5+ gloves for sharp, heavy materials.
- A1 gloves might suffice for light, routine tasks like warehouse sorting.
By matching gloves to hazards, injuries decrease, and productivity improves.
What is ANSI ISEA 105?
ANSI ISEA 105 is the broader standard governing hand protection in the U.S., encompassing cut resistance, abrasion, and chemical resistance.
It provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating and certifying gloves across multiple protective properties.
While cut resistance is a major focus, this standard also assesses factors like puncture resistance and heat protection.
Key components of ANSI ISEA 105
ANSI ISEA 105 evaluates gloves on these parameters:
- Cut Resistance (ASTM F2992-15)
- Abrasion Resistance (Measured by how many cycles a glove can endure against a rotating abrasive surface.)
- Puncture Resistance (Force needed to penetrate the glove with a pointed object.)
| Property | Test Standard | Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Cut Resistance | ASTM F2992-15 | A1–A9 |
| Abrasion Resistance | ASTM D3884 | 1–6 |
| Puncture Resistance | ASTM F1342 | 1–5 |
Why is ANSI ISEA 105 important?
It simplifies compliance for manufacturers and buyers. Instead of navigating multiple standards, buyers can reference ANSI ISEA 105 for an all-encompassing evaluation.
What does ANSI cut level 5 mean?
An ANSI cut level 5 glove is designed to withstand moderate to high cutting hazards in industrial environments.
It provides cut resistance for forces between 2200–2999 grams, suitable for tasks like glass cutting or handling sharp metals.
But what does this mean in real-world use? Let’s explore.
Applications of ANSI cut level 5 gloves
Cut level 5 gloves are common in:
- Construction: Handling sheet metal or rebar.
- Automotive: Dealing with sharp-edged parts.
- Glass Manufacturing: Carrying large, heavy sheets of glass.
These gloves balance protection with dexterity, making them versatile in hazardous industries.
Misconceptions about cut level 5
Not all cut level 5 gloves are equal. Variations in material—such as Kevlar, steel mesh, or polyurethane coatings—affect performance. Additionally, gloves rated A5 might not suit extreme environments requiring A7 or higher protection.
What are the ANSI impact resistance levels?
Impact resistance standards focus on how well gloves protect against sudden, forceful impacts, often caused by falling tools or equipment.
ANSI/ISEA 138 introduced levels 1 to 3 for back-of-hand protection against impacts, primarily for heavy-duty industries.
This standard specifically targets hand injuries like fractures and bruising from blunt force.
ANSI/ISEA 138 impact resistance levels
The impact standard evaluates gloves on the force absorbed by the knuckles and fingers during impact:
| Level | Knuckle Impact (kN) | Finger Impact (kN) | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | ≤9 | ≤9 | General construction, light-duty |
| Level 2 | ≤6.5 | ≤8 | Oil and gas, heavy tools |
| Level 3 | ≤4 | ≤7 | Mining, demolition, extreme work |
Why impact resistance matters
In industries like oil rigs or mining, falling tools or heavy equipment can crush hands. Gloves with high impact ratings provide the necessary protection, reducing lost workdays and medical costs.
Combining impact and cut resistance
For maximum safety, industries often require gloves that combine both impact and cut resistance. For example:
- Workers in oil fields often use gloves rated A5 for cuts and Level 3 for impact resistance.
Conclusion
Understanding ANSI/ISEA standards ensures workers get the right gloves for their jobs. These standards simplify safety, reduce risks, and improve productivity in industries where hand injuries are a major concern.