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Frequently Asked Questions

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Shipping Policy

Shipping policy

All orders are subject to manufacturer back orders. If a product is not immediately available, a member of our customer service team will reach out to you to discuss your options, including a full and immediate refund.

 


DOMESTIC ORDERS

 

Free Fed Ex Ground Shipping on all orders over $250 being delivered within the contiguous (conterminous) United States. All orders under $250 being delivered within the contiguous (conterminous) United States will be charged a flat rate of $25 for Fed Ex Ground Shipping.

 

A flat rate of $150 will appear at checkout for select products being delivered to AK/HI. If this flat rate is not an option, you will have to contact us for a custom shipping quote. 


Most orders will enter the Fed Ex system in Detroit, Michigan area in 1 to 2 business days after the order is placed.

 

Fed Ex Ground transit times: "1–5 business days within the contiguous U.S., 3–7 business days to and from Alaska and Hawaii. Check transit times based on your zip code: http://www.fedex.com/grd/maps/ShowMapEntry.do

 


INTERNATIONAL ORDERSA

A flat rate of $150 will appear at checkout for select products being delivered to US Territories, Armed Forces, Canada, Mexico, and various Caribbean nations. If this flat rate is not an option, you will have to contact us for a custom shipping quote.

 

Novarlo is not responsible for duties and fees that may be applied by your country. It is your responsibility to understand what the charges will be as we do not accept returns for any reason.

 

**FOR EXPEDITED, OVERNIGHT, OR SERVICE PERSONALIZED IN ANY WAY, PLEASE CALL (833) 408-0500 AND WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ACCOMMODATE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITIES!**

 

CONTACT INFO
Address
31435 Stephenson Hwy
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Phone
Main: (833) 408-0500
Email: sales@novarlo.com

Refund Policy

Refund policy

 

Returns

 

We’ll always do our best to put it right if, occasionally, a product may not be quite right or is surplus to requirements.

 

We accept refunds on non-branded, non-customized items. Other products, unfortunately, usually not. If you want to know if we can make an exception, please call us at (833) 408-0500 BEFORE placing your order. (Re-stocking fees are likely to apply.)

 

Thank you for your understanding.

 

CONTACT INFO
Address
31435 Stephenson Hwy
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Phone
Main: (833) 408-0500
Email sales@novarlo.com

What does ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 cover in glove safety?

ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 is the latest U.S. standard for evaluating and classifying the performance of safety gloves. It helps users select the right hand protection by standardizing how gloves are tested for hazards like cuts, punctures, abrasion, and chemical exposure. This ensures consistency and safety across various industries, from construction to manufacturing and utilities.

 

The standard includes specific performance ratings—such as cut resistance (rated A1 to A9), abrasion resistance (levels 0–6), and puncture resistance—using controlled testing methods. These ratings indicate how much force or wear a glove can withstand and guide buyers toward the right level of protection for their tasks.

 

The 2024 revision also introduces updates to improve clarity and alignment with international standards like EN 388. It expands guidance on chemical resistance and refines test procedures to ensure more accurate and relevant glove evaluations.

 

Overall, ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 provides a reliable framework to compare gloves, helping safety managers and workers make better-informed PPE decisions.

How are glove cut ratings determined and what level do I need?

Glove cut ratings are determined by measuring the amount of force required to cut through a glove’s material using a standardized test machine—most commonly the TDM-100, as outlined in the ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 standard. During testing, a straight blade moves across the glove fabric under varying amounts of pressure. The more force it takes to cut through, the higher the cut resistance rating.

 

The results are classified into nine levels, from A1 to A9, with A1 offering the least cut resistance (200–499 grams of force) and A9 offering the highest (6000+ grams of force). This range allows users to select gloves that align with the actual cut risks in their work environment, from basic warehouse tasks to handling sheet metal or sharp glass.

 

To determine which level you need, assess the type of tools, materials, and movement involved in the job. For example, general maintenance work might only require A2–A3, while glass handling, metal stamping, or sharp blade work might demand A5–A9. It’s also important to consider grip, dexterity, and comfort alongside cut resistance for optimal performance and safety.

 

In short, glove cut ratings provide a simple way to match the right protection level to your specific task—ensuring safety without compromising usability. Always consult with a safety expert or refer to your workplace’s hazard assessment when selecting gloves.

How is glove abrasion resistance rated?

Glove abrasion resistance is rated by measuring how well a glove material can withstand repeated rubbing or scraping before it wears through. This is tested using a Martindale abrasion machine, which moves a piece of sandpaper in a circular motion against the glove fabric under controlled pressure. The number of cycles it takes to break through the material determines its abrasion resistance level.

 

According to the ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 standard, abrasion resistance is rated on a scale from Level 0 to Level 6, with Level 0 being the lowest resistance and Level 6 the highest. For example, a Level 1 glove might withstand 100 abrasion cycles, while a Level 6 glove could endure 20,000 or more. These levels help users understand how long a glove might last under friction-heavy tasks.

 

Choosing the right abrasion level depends on the job. If you're working in environments with repeated contact against rough surfaces—like construction, maintenance, or metal handling—a higher abrasion rating (Level 4–6) will provide better durability and reduce the need for frequent glove replacement. Lower levels may be suitable for light-duty tasks with minimal wear.

 

In summary, abrasion resistance ratings are a practical way to judge how tough and long-lasting a glove will be. Matching the rating to your work conditions ensures both safety and cost-efficiency over time.

What is the ANSI/ISEA 105 Heat rating and when is it needed?

The ANSI/ISEA 105 Heat rating measures a glove’s ability to withstand high temperatures without melting, igniting, or degrading. It’s designed to help workers select gloves that provide appropriate thermal protection during tasks involving contact with hot surfaces, tools, or materials. This rating is determined through a contact heat test where the glove is exposed to a heated surface, and the time it takes for the heat to transfer through is recorded.

 

Heat resistance is rated from Level 0 to Level 5, based on the temperature the glove can endure for at least 15 seconds without exceeding a safe threshold on the inner surface. For example, a Level 2 glove may handle contact heat of up to 250°F (121°C), while a Level 5 glove may protect against temperatures over 608°F (320°C). The higher the level, the greater the thermal protection.

 

This rating is especially important for jobs in welding, metalworking, glass manufacturing, food processing, or any environment where workers handle heated objects or surfaces. Choosing a glove with an appropriate heat rating reduces the risk of burns and improves confidence and efficiency during high-heat tasks.

 

In short, the ANSI/ISEA 105 Heat rating ensures that gloves used in hot environments are tested for real-world thermal hazards. Always assess both the temperature exposure and duration of contact when selecting gloves for heat protection.

How is glove puncture resistance tested and why does it matter?

Glove puncture resistance is tested by measuring the amount of force needed to push a standardized probe through the glove material. This test is defined by the ANSI/ISEA 105 standard and simulates common workplace hazards like nails, wire, splinters, or glass shards. The test is conducted under controlled conditions using a probe that mimics sharp objects workers may encounter.

 

The results are categorized into puncture resistance levels from 0 to 5, with Level 0 offering minimal resistance and Level 5 indicating the highest. A higher level means the glove can withstand more force before being pierced, providing greater protection in environments where sharp objects are common.

 

This rating matters because cuts and punctures are among the most frequent hand injuries in industrial settings. Without proper protection, even a small puncture can lead to serious injuries, infections, or lost time on the job. Gloves with higher puncture ratings are especially important in construction, recycling, metalwork, waste handling, and glass manufacturing.

 

Ultimately, puncture resistance ratings help ensure that gloves match the specific hazards of a task. Choosing the right level provides not just better safety, but also peace of mind for workers handling sharp materials daily.

What is EN 388 and how does it relate to mechanical risks?

EN 388 is a European standard that evaluates a glove’s resistance to mechanical hazards, including abrasion, blade cuts, tears, and punctures. It’s widely used across industries to compare and select gloves that protect against physical risks commonly found in manual handling, construction, metalworking, and manufacturing.

 

Gloves tested to EN 388 are marked with a four- or six-digit code representing their performance in each category:

Abrasion Resistance (1–4)

Cut Resistance – Coup Test (1–5 or X)

Tear Resistance (1–4)

Puncture Resistance (1–4)

 

If tested, the last two digits represent cut resistance using the TDM-100 test (A–F) and impact protection (P or X).

 

This standard helps safety professionals and workers choose gloves suited to their environment’s specific physical demands. For example, a glove with a high tear and puncture rating would be ideal for tasks involving sharp or rough materials, while those with high cut ratings are better for handling blades or sheet metal.

 

EN 388 plays a critical role in ensuring consistent and transparent glove performance. It provides a straightforward way to understand how well a glove can withstand the kinds of mechanical risks workers face daily.

What is EN 407:2020 and how does it help protect against thermal hazards?

EN 407:2020 is a European standard that measures a glove’s resistance to various thermal hazards, including heat and flame. It’s used to evaluate gloves intended for tasks involving exposure to high temperatures—such as welding, foundry work, metal fabrication, and glass handling—where thermal protection is essential for worker safety.

 

This standard tests gloves across six key areas:

  • Limited flame spread
  • Contact heat
  • Convective heat
  • Radiant heat
  • Small splashes of molten metal
  • Large quantities of molten metal

 

Each performance area is rated separately on a numeric scale (usually from Level 1 to 4), allowing users to understand exactly what kind of heat a glove protects against. For example, a glove with a high contact heat rating but low flame resistance may be ideal for handling hot tools but not for working near open flames.

 

EN 407:2020 provides a clear, standardized way to select gloves for thermal risk environments. It ensures workers are using gloves that have been thoroughly tested against the specific types of heat they’ll encounter—reducing the risk of burns, heat stress, or glove failure on the job.

What are the EN 511 Contact and Convective Cold Performance ratings?

EN 511 is the European standard used to assess how well gloves protect against cold-related hazards, specifically contact cold and convective cold. It’s especially important for workers in refrigerated environments, outdoor winter conditions, or industries where exposure to cold air, surfaces, or materials is common—such as construction, logistics, agriculture, and utilities.

 

The standard tests gloves in three areas:

 

Convective Cold Resistance – measures insulation against cold air circulation.

 

Contact Cold Resistance – evaluates how well the glove insulates against direct contact with cold surfaces.

 

Water Permeability – determines if the glove allows water to penetrate after 30 minutes of exposure.

 

Performance levels for contact and convective cold range from 0 (lowest protection) to 4 (highest protection). A glove with a high contact cold rating will provide better insulation when touching cold objects, while high convective cold resistance indicates better protection from cold airflow or wind.

 

In short, EN 511 ratings help users select gloves that will keep hands warm and functional in freezing conditions. Whether you're gripping metal tools or working in sub-zero air, these ratings ensure the gloves you choose are suited for the specific type of cold exposure you face.

What does EN 531 cover in terms of heat and flame protection?

EN 531 was a European standard developed to specify the performance requirements for protective clothing worn by industrial workers exposed to heat and flames. It focused on ensuring garments could withstand brief contact with flames and various types of heat, including radiant, convective, and contact heat. Although now superseded by EN ISO 11612, EN 531 laid the foundation for today’s flame-resistant workwear standards.

 

The standard used a letter-based code to rate garments in five key areas:

A – Limited flame spread

B – Protection against convective heat

C – Protection against radiant heat

D – Protection against molten aluminum splashes

E – Protection against molten iron splashes

 

Each letter is followed by a number (e.g., B1, C3) indicating the level of protection, with higher numbers offering greater resistance. This system made it easier for users to select garments based on the specific thermal risks present in their workplace.

 

While EN 531 is no longer the current standard (it was replaced by EN ISO 11612), many products still reference it, particularly in legacy systems or specifications. Understanding EN 531 helps in comparing older garments and ensuring compatibility or compliance during transitions to updated standards.

What does ASTM F1939 test for in arc flash glove materials?

ASTM F1939 is a testing standard that evaluates the arc thermal performance of glove materials used in electrical environments. It specifically measures how well a fabric resists exposure to a high-energy electrical arc, which can generate intense heat and light capable of causing severe burns in a fraction of a second.

 

The test determines the Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) of the glove material, which is the amount of energy (measured in calories per square centimeter, or cal/cm²) it can withstand before there’s a 50% probability of causing a second-degree burn. A higher ATPV means the material provides better protection during an arc flash event.

 

This test is essential for industries like electrical utilities, maintenance, and industrial power systems, where arc flash incidents are a real risk. Gloves tested to ASTM F1939 provide confidence that the fabric offers a specific level of thermal protection and will not ignite, melt, or drip during exposure.

 

In short, ASTM F1939 helps ensure that gloves used in arc flash environments offer reliable thermal resistance, forming part of a critical line of defense for workers exposed to electrical hazards. Always pair arc-rated gloves with other arc flash PPE for complete protection.

What does "Reach Compliant – Gloves" mean?

“REACH Compliant – Gloves” means that the gloves meet the safety and environmental requirements outlined in the REACH Regulation—a European Union law governing the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals. It ensures that chemical substances used in manufacturing do not pose a risk to human health or the environment.

 

For gloves, this typically means they are free from hazardous substances such as phthalates, heavy metals, and carcinogenic dyes, or that those substances are used only within legal limits. Manufacturers must disclose and manage any chemicals of very high concern (SVHCs) that may be present in the glove’s material, coating, or treatment.

 

REACH compliance is especially important in gloves used for food handling, healthcare, general manufacturing, or prolonged skin contact, where chemical exposure could be harmful. It also assures end-users that the product has undergone a rigorous safety review in line with EU standards.

 

In summary, when a glove is labeled as “REACH Compliant,” it means it’s been tested and approved to meet high standards for chemical safety, offering better protection for both the user and the environment.

What chemicals are tested for glove safety?

Glove safety testing involves evaluating how well glove materials resist chemical penetration, degradation, and permeation. This is especially important in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, cleaning, and chemical handling, where exposure to hazardous substances can harm the skin or be absorbed into the body. The specific chemicals tested depend on the glove’s intended use, but common tests follow standards like EN ISO 374 or ASTM F739.

 

Typical chemicals tested include:

Solvents (e.g., acetone, toluene, xylene)

Acids (e.g., sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid)

Bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide)

Alcohols (e.g., ethanol, isopropanol)

 

Pesticides, cleaning agents, and oils These tests determine how quickly a chemical breaks through the glove material (permeation), whether it visibly damages the glove (degradation), or seeps through seams or imperfections (penetration).

 

Gloves are often rated for resistance against specific chemicals or grouped into Type A, B, or C categories under European standards, based on the number and severity of chemicals they can withstand. Always check the chemical compatibility chart provided by the manufacturer before selecting gloves for a specific task.

 

In short, chemical safety testing ensures that gloves offer the right barrier for the substances they may encounter. This helps reduce the risk of skin irritation, burns, or long-term health effects due to chemical exposure.

Which glove rating should I use for industrial applications?

The right glove rating for industrial applications depends on the specific hazards present in your work environment, such as cuts, punctures, abrasions, heat, or chemical exposure. Gloves are tested and rated under standards like ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388, which help identify the level of protection provided in each of these categories.

 

For example, if you're working with sharp materials like metal, glass, or blades, look for gloves with a high cut resistance rating—typically ANSI A4 to A7 or EN 388 cut levels C to F. For tasks involving rough surfaces or repetitive handling, gloves with high abrasion resistance (Level 4–6 under ANSI) will offer longer-lasting protection.

 

If there’s a risk of puncture injuries from wires, nails, or splinters, choose gloves with a puncture resistance rating of Level 3 or 4. In hot environments or near heated surfaces, select gloves with an ANSI Heat Level of 3 or higher, or those certified under EN 407 for thermal hazards. For chemical-heavy tasks, ensure the gloves are chemically rated and compliant with REACH or EN ISO 374 standards.

 

Ultimately, the best glove for an industrial setting balances protection, comfort, and task performance. Conduct a workplace hazard assessment, consult safety standards, and always choose gloves tested and labeled for the specific risks your team faces.

What is the difference between M4 and M5 Ariat pants?

The difference between M4 and M5 Ariat pants comes down to fit, rise, and leg style, giving wearers options based on personal preference and comfort. Both styles are part of Ariat’s workwear and western wear collections, designed for durability, function, and long-lasting comfort in demanding environments.

 

M4 pants feature a low-rise waist with a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh, and a boot-cut leg opening. This style offers a more generous cut, making them ideal for those who prefer a roomier feel or need added mobility for bending, lifting, or riding.

 

M5 pants have a slightly higher rise and a slimmer fit through the thigh and seat, also with a boot-cut leg. They offer a more modern, streamlined appearance while still providing flexibility and toughness for active work or riding tasks.

 

In short, choose M4 for a looser, more relaxed fit, and M5 if you prefer a closer-fitting, more tailored look. Both deliver Ariat’s signature durability, but the best choice depends on your comfort needs and style preference.

What are the pros and cons of 1/2 masks vs PAPR respirators?

1/2 masks (half-face respirators) and PAPRs (Powered Air-Purifying Respirators) both offer protection against airborne hazards, but they differ significantly in design, protection level, and comfort. Choosing between them depends on the work environment, duration of use, and specific hazards.

 

1/2 masks are compact, lightweight, and cost-effective. They rely on the wearer’s lung power to draw air through filters or cartridges and are suitable for tasks involving dust, fumes, and light chemical exposure. However, they can become uncomfortable during long shifts, especially in hot or physically demanding environments, and require a tight facial seal—which may be compromised by facial hair or eyewear.

 

PAPRs, on the other hand, use a battery-powered blower to actively deliver filtered air to the wearer’s facepiece or hood. This makes them much more comfortable for extended wear, reduces breathing resistance, and offers higher levels of protection (APF of 25 to 1,000 depending on the system). The downside is that PAPRs are bulkier, more expensive, and require battery maintenance and regular cleaning.

 

In summary, 1/2 masks are ideal for short-term use in low-to-moderate risk environments, while PAPRs are better suited for high-risk or long-duration tasks where comfort, airflow, and maximum protection are critical. The right choice depends on your job’s specific hazards and working conditions.

What is the difference between Type I and Type II hard hats?

The primary difference between Type I and Type II hard hats lies in the direction of impact protection they are designed to provide. This classification is defined by both ANSI Z89.1 (U.S.) and CSA Z94.1 (Canada) standards, which help employers choose appropriate head protection based on workplace hazards.

 

Type I hard hats are designed to protect against impacts to the top of the head only—such as falling tools or debris. They are commonly used in traditional construction and industrial settings where the main risk comes from overhead hazards.

 

Type II hard hats, on the other hand, offer protection against both top and lateral (side) impacts. They have additional padding and structural features to absorb blows from the sides and front or back of the helmet. This makes them suitable for work environments where the risk of being struck from various angles is higher, such as confined spaces, utility work, or areas with moving equipment.

 

In summary, Type I hard hats protect from overhead impact, while Type II hard hats offer all-around protection, including side impacts. Choosing the right type ensures that workers have the appropriate level of safety based on the hazards present in their specific work environment.

What glove cut level do I need for my industry?

The cut level you need depends on the type of work and the sharp hazards present in your industry. Glove cut resistance is rated using the ANSI/ISEA 105 standard, which assigns levels from A1 to A9, with A1 offering the lowest protection and A9 the highest. These levels reflect the amount of force (in grams) required to cut through the glove material with a sharp blade.

 

For light-duty tasks like general assembly, maintenance, or warehouse work, a glove rated A1 to A3 is typically sufficient. These gloves provide basic protection against light cuts from tools, packaging, or materials handling. Industries like automotive or light manufacturing often fall into this category.

 

If you work with sharp materials such as glass, sheet metal, or wire—common in construction, HVAC, electrical, or metal fabrication—you’ll likely need a glove rated A4 to A6. For extreme hazards, such as heavy-duty metal stamping, high-risk cut exposure, or working around blades, A7 to A9 gloves are recommended.

 

In summary, selecting the right glove cut level involves matching the hazard severity to the level of protection. Always conduct a hazard assessment of your tasks, and when in doubt, choose a higher cut level to ensure worker safety without compromising dexterity and comfort.

Which FR category should I choose for electrical work?

The appropriate Flame-Resistant (FR) category for electrical work depends on the level of arc flash hazard present in your environment. These categories, defined by NFPA 70E, are referred to as Arc Flash PPE Categories (CAT 1–4) and are based on the incident energy level—measured in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²)—that workers could be exposed to during an arc flash event.

 

CAT 1 (minimum 4 cal/cm²): Basic protection for low-risk electrical tasks such as switching low-voltage panels or general maintenance.

 

CAT 2 (minimum 8 cal/cm²): Suitable for more common electrical tasks like panel work, circuit testing, and breaker switching.

 

CAT 3 (minimum 25 cal/cm²) and CAT 4 (minimum 40 cal/cm²): Designed for high-risk work involving larger electrical equipment or high-voltage systems, where incident energy is much higher.

 

To determine which category you need, your employer must perform an arc flash risk assessment that calculates the incident energy levels at different work zones. Based on that, you can select FR garments and gear with an arc rating (ATPV or EBT) equal to or greater than the expected exposure.

 

In summary, the FR category for electrical work should match the calculated arc flash risk in your environment. Always wear PPE that meets or exceeds the required CAT level, including FR clothing, face protection, gloves, and hearing protection as specified by NFPA 70E and your company’s safety protocols.

What is the best glove for chemical abrasion and puncture?

The best glove for protection against chemical exposure, abrasion, and puncture is one that’s specifically tested and rated for all three hazards. Since no single glove material protects against all risks equally, the ideal choice often combines chemical-resistant materials (like nitrile, neoprene, or butyl rubber) with mechanical strength features such as reinforced palms or multi-layer construction.

 

For chemical resistance, look for gloves that comply with EN ISO 374 or ASTM standards and are labeled for the specific chemicals you're handling. Nitrile gloves offer good resistance to oils, fuels, and many solvents, while butyl rubber is better for ketones and esters. Manufacturers often provide chemical compatibility charts to help guide selection.

 

For abrasion and puncture resistance, refer to the ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 ratings. Choose gloves with an abrasion resistance level of 4–6 and puncture resistance level of 3 or higher. Some chemical-resistant gloves now include cut- and puncture-resistant liners to offer multi-hazard protection without sacrificing flexibility.

 

In summary, the best glove is one that matches the specific chemicals and mechanical hazards of your task. Always perform a hazard assessment and select gloves that are certified for chemical resistance and rated for mechanical durability to ensure safe, long-lasting protection.