When it comes to protecting your hands on the job, not all gloves are created equal. Whether you're working with sharp tools, glass, sheet metal, or heavy machinery, wearing the right cut-resistant gloves can mean the difference between safety and injury.
But with terms like ANSI A2, A5, or A9 floating around, choosing the right cut level can be confusing.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What are cut-resistant gloves?
Cut-resistant gloves are designed to reduce the risk of injury when handling sharp materials or objects. They’re made from specialized fibers like Kevlar®, HPPE, steel mesh, and other high-performance materials.
But how do you know which level of protection you need? That’s where cut ratings come in.
Understanding ANSI/ISEA 105 cut ratings
The ANSI/ISEA 105 is a U.S. standard developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA). It provides a uniform system for evaluating and classifying the performance of hand protection, specifically focusing on cut resistance, but also covering abrasion, puncture, and chemical resistance.
How cut resistance is measured
The ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 standard uses the TDM-100 test method, which measures the amount of force in grams required to cut through glove material using a straight-edge blade under controlled conditions. Based on this, gloves are assigned a cut level from A1 to A9:
|
Cut level |
Grams to cut |
Protection level |
Typical use |
Products |
|
A1 |
200–499 |
Very low |
General tasks, light handling |
|
|
A2 |
500–999 |
Low |
Warehouse, assembly work |
|
|
A3 |
1,000–1,499 |
Moderate |
HVAC, light construction |
|
|
A4 |
1,500–2,199 |
Medium |
Glass handling, roofing |
|
|
A5 |
2,200–2,999 |
High |
Sheet metal, automotive work |
|
|
A6 |
3,000–3,999 |
Very high |
Heavy machinery, stamping |
|
|
A7–A9 |
4,000–6,000+ |
Extreme |
Metal fabrication, demolition |
This standardized scale helps ensure that workers and safety managers can choose gloves with a reliable and consistent level of protection based on the type of hazards present.
Why ANSI/ISEA 105 matters
-
Consistency across brands: With ANSI/ISEA ratings, you can compare gloves from different manufacturers using the same safety benchmark.
-
OSHA compliance: Many industries rely on ANSI standards to stay in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations
-
Improved safety decisions: Knowing the exact cut level a glove offers helps safety managers make informed decisions to reduce on-the-job injuries.
How to choose the right cut level
When deciding on the right glove, ask yourself:
-
What am I handling? Sharp glass or metal requires higher cut resistance.
-
What’s the risk level? High-speed machinery or repetitive motions may warrant higher protection.
-
Do I need grip or dexterity? Higher cut levels can mean bulkier gloves—balance safety with functionality.
Common Industries and Recommended Cut Levels
-
Warehouse & shipping – A1 to A2
-
HVAC & electrical work – A3 to A4
-
Glass handling – A4 to A5
-
Metal fabrication & sheet metal – A5 to A6+
-
Automotive & manufacturing – A4 to A6
-
Demolition & construction – A5 to A9
Shop cut-resistant gloves at Novarlo
Novarlo offers a curated selection of cut-resistant gloves for every industry and application. We carry trusted brands with ANSI-rated protection so you can work with confidence.
Work smarter. Stay safer.
Knowing the right cut level for your work environment isn’t just smart - it’s essential. Don’t take chances with your safety. Choose gloves that match the hazards of your job, and never underestimate the value of proper hand protection.